A New Year, A New Focus
As we begin a new year, it’s natural to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. If you find yourself contemplating a change, leaving the 9-5 grind, or embarking on a new path, you’re not alone. This blog is dedicated to those seeking self-improvement and bold transformations . This week, we are exploring the concept of choosing a “Word of the Year” and discussing why it’s a powerful tool for personal growth.
Why Choose a Word of the Year?
A Word of the Year isn’t just a random term; it’s a guiding principle, a companion on your journey for the next 365 days. It’s more profound than resolutions that often fade away by February. This word serves as a theme, a mantra, and a source of inspiration. It’s a focal point that helps you navigate the twists and turns of life, which will inevitably come your way.
Manifesting Transformation: My Journey So Far
In 2016, I first came across the idea of picking a Word of the Year during a small group meeting. I chose “renew,” using a process similar to what I’ll walk you through shortly. Though I started with enthusiasm, treating it more like a resolution led me to lose focus without a clear plan or vision for the year.
Fast forward to January 2021, I rediscovered the concept. This time, I fully embraced it, choosing the word “believe.” Determined to keep my chosen word in focus the entire year, I surrounded myself with quotes and verses on my mirror for daily motivation. Changes were subtle and I began to wonder if I had chosen the right word, but in May of that year, the belief became reality. After years of trying to get pregnant,—we found out that we were expecting our first baby!
I entered 2022 with the word “peace.” I was so grateful to be a mom and peace enveloped me in the warmth of baby snuggles. I again surrounded myself with quotes and reminders of my dedication to seek peace in all aspects of my life throughout the year. It wasn’t always easy, but with a commitment to my word, I was able to find serenity even in chaotic moments of spit-up and sleepless nights.
As I began planning for 2023, I felt a strong pull toward the word “discipline” for the year. Despite attempts to consider other options, this particular word persistently found its way into my thoughts. It transformed the tone of my entire year. While “peace” seemed more enticing, I recognized the necessity for a different focus this time. Juggling the demands of mothering a toddler and pursuing entrepreneurial dreams proved challenging, but now, reflecting on it, I realize that practicing discipline has been my anchor, keeping me grounded and sane. In this new chapter of life, my chosen word has been a constant and steady guide. These words—renew, believe, peace, and discipline—were not just choices but companions, shaping my perspective and influencing crucial decisions. Sharing these glimpses, I hope you see how a single word can profoundly impact your life. It’s not a quick fix; it’s a deliberate commitment that, when embraced wholeheartedly, will manifest change in your life.
How to Choose and Commit to Your Word of the Year
Feeling unsure about choosing and staying committed to your Word of the Year? No worries—I’ve broken this down into four steps that will help you successfully choose and commit to your word. Access our free printable guide here to take notes as you navigate through the process.
Step One: Reflecting On Last Year.
Reflecting on the past year is essential for personal growth and planning for the future. Asking yourself what went well and what didn’t go so well can help you gain valuable insights. It allows you to celebrate your successes, learn from challenges, and make informed decisions moving forward.
Consider these prompts as you reflect on the past year:
- What achievements or accomplishments are you proud of from this year?
- In which areas did you experience personal or professional growth?
- What positive changes or habits did you establish during the year?
- Were there any unexpected opportunities that you seized and benefitted from?
- What valuable lessons did you learn from challenges or setbacks?
- Did you meet or exceed any personal or professional goals you set for yourself?
- In what ways did you strengthen your relationships with others?
- Did you overcome any fears or obstacles that had been holding you back?
- Are there areas where you feel you could have done better, and what can you learn from this?
- What activities or experiences brought you joy and fulfillment?
Step Two: Envision Your Desires For The Coming Year
In this step, we are starting to move forward. Take time to illuminate the desires that stir within you for the coming year. Begin creating a roadmap for the journey that lies ahead.
Dive into three key reflections:
- Release: What are you prepared to let go of, bid farewell to, or cease doing in the coming year? Acknowledge the aspects that no longer serve your growth and envision a lighter path forward.
- Retain: What practices, habits, or experiences from this year do you want to safeguard and continue nurturing? Identify the elements that brought joy, growth, or stability, and commit to their presence in the upcoming chapters.
- Renew: What new experiences do you want to bring into your life? Additionally, consider reviving past joys that once brought you happiness, but have been left behind.
Step Three: Choosing your word.
Hold off on this step until you’ve genuinely gone through steps one and two. Without taking the time to reflect on the past year and dream about the coming one, your word of the year won’t carry the same power.
Now that you have a focus of what you want in the coming year, explore our list of words in our guide. Start by circling 10 that connect with you effortlessly—no overthinking, let the words speak to you. Next, narrow down your selection to 5, then 3, and finally, settle on one. Take breaks in between to step away and refresh your perspective each time.
Congratulations! You now have your word of the year. 😀 But, keep in mind, there’s one more to do to sustain your word’s presence in the coming months.
Step Four: Staying Committed: Turning Words into Action
Picking your word is just the beginning; staying committed is where the real magic happens. Here are some ideas to keep your chosen word alive throughout the year:
Accountability: Find a partner or group to go through this process with you. Connect weekly or monthly with updates and encouragement.
Mission: Develop a mission statement for the year, placing your word at the center.
Vision: Visualize your goals by creating a vision board that embodies your word.
Inspiration: Find 12 quotes or verses related to your word, using one each month as a guiding light. Place these quotes where you can see them each day. Another idea is to choose books, podcasts, or other media related to your word to maintain focus and inspiration throughout the year.
Observation: Note when your word surfaces in conversations, readings or songs. Reflect on these moments to deepen your understanding.
Impact: Consider how implementing your word as a theme for the year can positively influence every area of your life—personal, business, finance, health, lifestyle, family, friends/other relationships, society and spirituality.
Reflect: Take time each month to reflect on your growth personally and with your accountability partner or group. Celebrate your victories and your growth, no matter how small it may seem
Closing Thoughts: A Bold New Beginning
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, I’m genuinely excited for you. Choosing a Word of the Year isn’t just a trend; it’s a powerful tool for transformation. May this activity fill you with passion and grant you a renewed outlook on life. Get excited, embrace the unknown, and start living boldly. Your new year awaits, ready to unfold with the promise of growth and fulfillment on your journey ahead!
We would love for you to share your word and start your journey with us–
The Bold Route Community.