Instead of making New Year’s resolutions, some people choose a “Word of the Year” (WOTY) to help guide them. Many find this a more effective way to stay motivated and achieve their goals.
Sometimes, New Year’s resolutions can be demotivating when you don’t follow through with them. Having a Word of the Year is a more positive and effective way to think about your personal growth. It’s a compass instead of a checklist.
If you’re looking for word of the year ideas, this article will give you some guidance and inspiration.
What is a Word of the Year?
A Word of the Year isn’t a rigid goal, but more of a guiding principle. Think of it as a touchstone that reminds you of your values, aspirations, and what you want to prioritize in the year ahead.
Unlike a traditional goal, which focuses on specific, measurable outcomes, a Word of the Year is all about intention. It’s about how you want to feel and be as you move through the year.
If you’re looking for inspiration, check out the “One Little Word” project. This project, which has been going strong since 2006, encourages people to choose a single word to focus on throughout the year as a way to stay grounded and intentional.
How to choose your word of the year
Choosing a word of the year can be a fun and rewarding way to set intentions and guide your actions. Here’s how to find the perfect word for you:
Think about the past and the future
Before you can choose the right word, you need to take some time to think about what you’ve learned from the past year and what you hope to achieve in the new year.
What were your challenges and triumphs? What lessons did you learn? What do you want more of in your life?
Brainstorm potential words
Once you have a good understanding of your goals, start brainstorming words that symbolize your intentions. Think about different areas of your life, such as work, health, and relationships.
Look for a word that encompasses your intended goals. The word should feel empowering, comforting, or even a little daring. It should be a word that inspires you to take action.
Evaluate and select the right word
Read through lists of words and note which ones resonate with you. If you can’t find the exact word you’re looking for, consider variations of words that come close.
Ultimately, the right word of the year is the one that speaks to you and motivates you to live your best life.
Word of the Year Ideas: A Thematic Approach
If you’re finding it hard to narrow down the options, you might want to consider a thematic approach. Grouping possible words by theme can help spark ideas and make the selection process a little easier.
Words for Personal Growth and Well-being
- Growth
- Balance
- Peace
- Joy
- Health
- Focus
- Intentional
- Simplify
- Gratitude
- Mindfulness
These words encourage self-improvement and a positive mindset.
Words for Creativity and Adventure
- Create
- Explore
- Discover
- Imagine
- Innovate
- Risk
- Play
These words inspire exploration, curiosity, and breaking free from routine.
Words for Strength and Resilience
- Strength
- Resilience
- Courage
- Persevere
- Overcome
- Confidence
- Determination
These words promote inner strength and the ability to bounce back from challenges.
Words for Making a Difference
- Compassion
- Kindness
- Service
- Impact
- Connect
- Contribute
- Inspire
- Community
These words encourage social responsibility and positive contributions to the world.
How to make your word stick
Picking a word of the year is just the first step. The real magic happens when you carry that word with you into your everyday life.
Visual reminders and placement
Write your word in your planner, journal, or on a sticky note. Consider creating a visual representation of the word, like a vision board or framed print.
Display your word somewhere you’ll see it often. A sticky note on your mirror, a framed reference on your desk, or a bullet journal entry can all serve as reminders.
Integration into daily life
Create a planner spread or a list of actions that relate to your word. Schedule time each week or month to review your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Sharing and accountability
Share your word with friends or family. Talking about your word and what it means to you can provide accountability and inspiration.
Alternatives: Words of the Month or Quarter
If choosing a word for the entire year feels like too much pressure, consider picking a word for the month or quarter instead.
This approach allows you to check in with yourself more often and to adjust your focus more quickly. It can be helpful if you have a shorter attention span or if your priorities tend to shift frequently.
A shorter timeframe might also be useful if you are new to the practice of choosing a word of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with the Word of the Year
Once you’ve chosen your Word of the Year, the fun begins! Use it as a guiding principle in your decision-making, journal about it, create visual reminders, and reflect on how it’s influencing your actions throughout the year. Think of it as a personal mantra to keep you focused on your goals.
How do I choose my Word of the Year
Start by reflecting on the past year and identifying areas where you want to grow or improve. Consider what qualities you want to cultivate and what intentions you want to set. Brainstorm words that resonate with your aspirations and then choose the one that feels most powerful and meaningful to you.
What are some words for year
If you’re stuck, consider words related to growth, change, resilience, or purpose. Some examples include: “Intentional,” “Focus,” “Courage,” “Gratitude,” “Balance,” “Simplify,” “Create,” “Connect,” “Thrive,” or “Evolve.” The best word is one that personally inspires you.
How to pick a Word of the Year for 2025
As 2024 winds down, start thinking about what you want to achieve in 2025. What lessons have you learned this year? What challenges do you anticipate? What do you want to prioritize? Use these reflections to guide your word selection for the coming year.
Final Thoughts
Picking a word of the year is a great way to set intentions and guide your personal growth throughout the year. It’s a simple but powerful tool that helps you focus on what’s truly important to you.
Once you’ve chosen your word, embrace it! Find ways to incorporate it into your daily life. Think about how you can use it to make decisions, set goals, and approach challenges.
Remember to check in with yourself regularly and celebrate your successes, big and small. This is about progress, not perfection.