How One Word Can Transform Your Year
- mjwilkinson41
- Dec 17, 2024
- 3 min read
Discover Your Word of the Year
I have a confession: I geek out over setting goals, intentions, and plans for the year ahead. One practice I started back in 2016 has truly been a game-changer for me: choosing a Word of the Year. Since 2017, I’ve selected a guiding word that anchors me throughout the year, and it has transformed how I approach my goals and intentions. Today, I want to share how you can choose your Word of the Year and why it’s such a powerful practice.
What Is a Word of the Year?
A Word of the Year is a single word or short phrase that serves as your guiding intention, focus, or theme for the year ahead. Unlike New Year’s resolutions that often fizzle out (more on that in a bit), a Word of the Year keeps you centered and aligned with your values and goals. It’s a tool to:
Simplify goal setting by focusing on an overarching intention.
Provide clarity and direction, especially in chaotic or challenging times.
Encourage mindfulness by keeping a core value at the forefront of daily life.
Why Resolutions Often Fail—And How This Is Different
Did you know that about 91% of people fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions? It’s no wonder gyms are packed in early January and eerily quiet by February. Resolutions often set us up for disappointment, but a Word of the Year simplifies things. It’s easier to remember, integrate into daily life, and stick with—ultimately increasing your follow-through and helping you stay intentional.
For example, my word for 2024 is Purpose. Whenever I face a decision, I ask myself, “How does this align with my purpose?” This practice brings clarity and confidence to my choices, big and small.
Connecting Your Word to Scripture
Scripture reminds us of the power of words and intention. One of my favorite verses for this practice is Isaiah 55:11: “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose.” Just as God’s word is purposeful, we can model that intention by choosing our Word of the Year.
For example, if your word is peace, imagine starting each day with that in mind. When life gets hectic—kids arguing, deadlines looming, a messy house—reflecting on peace can help you recenter and lean on God for strength.
How to Choose Your Word of the Year
Ready to choose your word? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Reflect on the Past Year: Take a moment to think about what brought you joy and where you struggled. This reflection can provide insight into what you need most in the year ahead.
Pray for Guidance: Invite God into the process. Ask Him, “What do You want me to focus on this year?” Be still and listen; often, a word will come to you.
Brainstorm and Define: If multiple words come to mind, write them down and look up their definitions. Sometimes, understanding a word’s meaning can deepen its significance.
Connect It to Scripture: Use tools like the Bible app to find verses that align with your word. Scripture adds a layer of depth and inspiration to your word.
Cast Your Vision: Think about how this word will shape your year. Write down what you want your life to look like with this word as your guide.
My Word of the Year: Purpose
This year, my word is purpose. After much prayer, I felt called to focus on this theme. Here’s how I’ve grounded it:
Definition: The reason for which something exists or is done; an intended result, aim, or goal.
Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 (NLT): “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” I love the word “masterpiece”—it reminds me that we are uniquely created for a divine purpose.
Download Your Free Word of the Year Guide
To help you get started, I’ve created a free Word of the Year guide. It’s packed with prompts and tools to make this process easy and meaningful. You can grab it in the show notes and use it to:
Reflect on your year.
Pray for and brainstorm your word.
Write down your word’s definition and connect it to scripture.
Cast your vision for 2024.
Friend, this practice has been life-changing for me, and I know it can be for you too. Let’s start the new year with intention and anchor ourselves in God’s plan for our lives. What will your word be for 2025? Share it with me in the comments or on social media—I can’t wait to hear from you!
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