Word of the Year

Choosing a word to represent your goals for the year is a great way to stay focused and motivated. When you have one word to guide you, deciding what tasks should take priority becomes much easier, and you have a more streamlined vision for what you need to accomplish. This is a great investment of time as the clarity will ultimately save you time with decision making. 

So, how do you choose a word for the year?

• Think about what's important to you. What are your values? What are your priorities?  Where are you headed? What do you want to achieve in the year ahead?
• Brainstorm a list of words. Once you have a good idea of what's important to you, start brainstorming a list of words that come to mind. Don't worry about editing or censoring yourself at this point, just write down anything that pops into your head. 
• Narrow down your list. Now that you’ve created a list of words, take some time to narrow it down to a chosen few that closely tie in to your yearly goals. Feel free to walk away from the list for a break, or even sleep on it, before returning to see what sparks feelings in you.
• Choose your word. Choose one word out of your narrowed list that you feel best represents your goals for the year.
• Write it down. Put your word somewhere you'll see it often. This could be a sticky note on your fridge, in your planner, on your mirror, or even as a screensaver on your computer.
• Let it guide your planning. When making your weekly plan, consider how demands for your time will help you keep your chosen word at the forefront. The tasks, appointments, and commitments that align closest with your word could then be made a priority.

Some of my past words include:  

• Simplicity
• Kaizen
• Trust
• Patience
• Growth
• God
• Hope
• Abundance

Choosing a word to represent your goals for the year can be a powerful way to stay focused and motivated. When you have a word to guide you, it is easier to see what decisions are aligned with your goals. It ultimately saves you time and helps you spend time on what you truly feel is important to you. If you don’t already have a word, take some time this week to follow the steps above to choose a word that will help you make the most of your days in the year ahead. 

Need help choosing a word? Sign up for a 1:1 coaching session to talk about your work and life goals.