How Choosing Words of the Year Transforms Your Life
As the new year unfolds, many of us feel the pressure to set ambitious goals or make resolutions—a tradition that can often lead to feelings of failure or disappointment. But what if there was a more empowering way to guide your year?
I’m going to share my personal tradition of selecting words of the year instead of setting rigid goals or resolutions. This practice has not only transformed how I approach each year but also how I align my life with my values and desires.
If you’d like to listen to the full conversation, you can also access the podcast episode here.
Why Words of the Year Work
Traditional resolutions often feel like a box we’re trying to fit into. When life doesn’t go as planned, we might feel like we’ve failed or wasted the year. That’s why I choose words of the year.
These words act as a compass, guiding my decisions and helping me stay aligned with my core values. They’re flexible, allowing room for growth and change, and they encourage me to focus on intention rather than perfection.
For example, my words for 2024 were sultry, pamper, and thrive. Each of these words inspired specific actions and mindsets. Sultry encouraged me to embrace sensuality and experience life through my senses. Pamper reminded me to prioritize self-care, while thrive pushed me to grow personally and professionally.
By the end of the year, these words weren’t just intentions—they became part of who I am.
My Words for 2025: Expand and Repurpose
This year, I’ve chosen two words: expand and repurpose. These words resonate deeply with where I am in life and where I want to go. They reflect my desire to grow intentionally, enjoy the fruits of my labor, and focus on simplicity and sustainability.
Expand
Expansion, for me, doesn’t mean adding stress or busyness. It’s about intentional growth. Whether it’s deepening relationships, exploring new hobbies, or enhancing my business offerings, expansion allows me to stretch beyond my comfort zone without losing the simplicity I value.
For instance, I’m focusing on creating immersive experiences for myself and others—like learning to draw or spending more time outdoors.
In business, expanding means prioritizing quality over quantity. I’m shifting toward exclusive offerings that provide transformative experiences, encouraging clients to prioritize rest and self-care in meaningful ways.
Repurpose
The idea of repurposing came to me during a conversation with ChatGPT (yes, even AI can inspire!). Instead of constantly chasing new goals, I’m repurposing the work I’ve already done, building on it to reach new levels of fulfillment and success. This mindset shift has been liberating—it’s not about starting over but about elevating what already exists.
Repurposing also applies to how I spend my energy and time. Social media, for example, is no longer my main focus. Instead, I’m exploring platforms and strategies that feel more aligned with my goals, such as in-person events and deepening client relationships.
How You Can Choose Your Words of the Year
If this concept resonates with you, here are a few tips to help you choose your own words of the year:
Reflect on Your Current Season: Consider what areas of your life need attention or growth. What have you been working on, and where do you want to focus your energy?
Think Intentionally: Choose words that align with your values and aspirations. For instance, if you’re feeling stuck, a word like “expand” could encourage you to explore new opportunities.
Start Small: Don’t feel pressured to pick multiple words. Even one meaningful word can have a profound impact.
Make It Actionable: Once you’ve chosen your words, think about how they can influence your daily actions. For example, if your word is “pamper,” schedule regular self-care rituals.
A Final Thought
Healing and growth aren’t about constantly striving for more. At some point, you need to live—to experience the fruits of your labor and let the seeds you’ve planted grow. This year, I’m committed to expanding my capacity for joy, connection, and rest, and I encourage you to do the same.
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