Setting intentions is the most impactful way I have discovered for succeeding each year. And what is one of the simplest yet most helpful strategies for setting intentions? A word of the year! A word that you have chosen to keep your priorities and goals in mind for the year and set the tone for what you are wanting this year to look like.
That is why today we are talking ALL about word of the years.
We’re going to chat about why you need a word of the year, tips for choosing it and then I rounded up 50 ideas for word of the years to help give you ideas for choosing yours!
But first up we are going to talk about the why because knowing why is essential for picking the right word for you.
Why Choose a Word of the Year?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s tackle the “why.” Why should you choose a word of the year? Well, for starters:
- It’s simple. No long resolutions, no pressure to tick off a million boxes. Just one word to guide you when making decisions and struggling with whatever life sends at you throughout this year.
- It keeps you focused. Your word is a constant reminder of your priorities, especially when life inevitably gets messy.
- It’s flexible. Your word can apply to every aspect of your life whether that’s career, relationships, self-care, you name it. Or it can be focused on one area that you are really focused on this year. It’s up to you what feels right for you and your life!
- It feels personal. Your word reflects you and what you want to invite into your life.
Now let’s get into how to choose your word of the year and of course some ideas for your word of the year!
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How To Choose a Word Of The Year
Tips and ideas for a word of the year:
Step 1: Reflect on What You Want
The first step in choosing your word is to get real about what you want from the year ahead. I highly recommend for this step to grab a journal and think about these questions below and write out answers.
- What do I want to focus on this year?
- What areas of my life need a little more attention?
- How do I want to feel by the end of the year?
Focus on any words that you notice appearing a lot in your journaling thoughts.
Is there one that feels like a common theme? Or even a sentence or other theme that reappears? That also can help you start to narrow down what resonates for you.
Knowing what you are truly and genuinely wanting for your year is essential for helping you set your word of the year and all your other intentions and resolutions! So make sure to prioritize discovering your why before you keep going with intention setting.
Step 2: Brainstorm Words That Resonate
Now that you’ve reflected, it’s time to brainstorm. Think of words that capture the energy you want to bring into your life. Don’t overthink it my friends! Just jot down whatever comes to mind. Here’s a little inspiration to get you started:
- Growth
- Joy
- Balance
- Courage
- Create
- Adventure
- Focus
- Kindness
- Abundance
- Breathe
(None speaking too you? Well don’t I’ve included 50 ideas for words of the year at the end of this article!)
If just brainstorming isn’t enough for you try to think about words that you feel called to embodying this year. Feeling called to get out of your comfort zone? Then adventure could be the word for you! Feeling tired of repetitive parts of your life and days? Maybe change is the word for you!
Step 3: Test Your Word
Once you have a few options, take them for a test drive. Imagine how each word would feel as your guide for the year. Ask yourself about situations and questions like these-
- Im struggling with inspiration… does my word help to inspire and motivate me?
- Can I apply it to different areas of my life? Think about the different key parts of your life (are you a parent? Working in your career? In school? In a new relationship? etc) and how this specific word can apply to each of those and the path you want those areas to follow this year.
- Does it align with my goals and values? Make sure to think about values in all of the different areas of your life and think about how the word aligns with those values that you prioritize.
Sometimes, the right word just clicks. Other times, you might need to sit with it for a day or two to see if it feels like a good fit for you and that is totally okay!
Step 4: Make It (and keep it) Visible
Congratulations! You’ve chosen your word for the year! Now, let’s make sure you actually use it. Your word should be front and center in your life, so you don’t forget it halfway through March.
Here are some ideas for how to keep the word visible:
- Write it on a sticky note and stick it to your mirror in your bedroom or bathroom.
- Set it as your phone wallpaper.
- Create a vision board with your word as the centerpiece.
- Use it as a journal prompt or daily affirmation each day!
The more you see your word, the more it’ll sink in and the more likely you are to stay focused on your goals.
Step 5: Embrace the Journey
Here’s the thing about your word of the year: it’s not a magic wand. It won’t automatically fix everything or make your goals happen overnight. But it will serve as a gentle nudge to keep you aligned with what you want.
Some days, you’ll totally nail it. Other days, you might forget your word exists. That’s okay! The beauty of this practice is that it’s forgiving. Just come back to your word whenever you need a little clarity or motivation.
50 Ideas for Words of the Year
Still stuck? Here’s a curated list of 50 words to inspire you:
- Abundance
- Adventure
- Balance
- Breathe
- Brave
- Clarity
- Connection
- Create
- Courage
- Determination
- Dream
- Empower
- Energy
- Focus
- Freedom
- Glow
- Gratitude
- Growth
- Harmony
- Health
- Hope
- Inspire
- Joy
- Kindness
- Learn
- Light
- Mindful
- Momentum
- Nurture
- Optimism
- Passion
- Peace
- Persevere
- Positivity
- Purpose
- Reflect
- Resilience
- Shine
- Simplify
- Spark
- Strength
- Thrive
- Trust
- Vision
- Wellness
- Wisdom
- Wonder
- Zest
- Kindness
- Success
Korra-Shay
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