How to Choose Your Word of the Year
Collect as precious pearls the words of the wise and virtuous.
-ABD EL-KADER
In the hustle of daily life with constant competing commitments, being intentional in your growth requires discipline and persistence. One simple practice that can increase your intentionality throughout the ebb and flow of the New Year is to select a word of the year.
Once chosen, your word of the year can help to inspire clarity, encourage a positive mindset, and increase momentum for your growth. So, how do you find a word that will serve as your inspiration? Here are three key strategies to keep in mind in the selection process.
1 - Choose a Word to Clarify Your Path Forward.
Amid life's chaos, your chosen word can become a guiding beacon, offering clarity and focus. Whether it's "resilience," "growth," or "balance," the single, powerful concept you choose anchors your intentions and aspirations, helping you make decisions aligned with your goals and values and steering clear of distraction.
2 - Choose a Word to Transform Your Mindset.
Your mindset shapes your reality, so your chosen word can serve as a transformative tool in how you are thinking about your life circumstances. Choose a word that embodies the mindset you want to encourage, inviting a positive shift in your thoughts and attitudes. This intentional focus not only helps you overcome challenges but also can open up new opportunities as you nurture positive thinking.
3 - Choose a Word to Support Personal Growth.
Your word of the year can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth. It can become a wellspring of inspiration, propelling you forward when faced with obstacles. Reminding you of your commitment to growth, it nudges you to step out of your comfort zones and embrace change. With this momentum, you can turn your aspirations into tangible achievements, creating a continuous cycle of improvement.
Practical Tips to Choose Your Word
Not sure where to start in selecting a word? Use these tips:
Set aside some time to reflect on your goals, values, and specific areas of improvement.
Consider words that deeply resonate with you and demonstrate your aspirations.
Read through word lists, like this one, this one, or this one.
Draw inspiration from books, quotes, or powerful experiences you’ve had.
Get some ideas from my printable definition posters in my Etsy shop.
Once your word is chosen, embrace it with intentionality—define what it means to you in detail, and visualize how it will guide you in your daily life. The potential with this exercise lies not just in selecting the word but actively embodying it.
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