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What’s All the Hype About a Word of the Year?

I confess. I love the New Year. Clean slate, fresh planner, new goals…so many possibilities… It’s one of my favorite times of the year for sure.

Planner on DeskEver since I can remember, I’ve started the year with a list or a plan. But, for the last few years, I’ve chosen a word of the year as well, and let that guide not only those goals, but also my year. As woo woo as I can be, I was pretty shocked at how well it worked for me the first time, so obviously I’ve kept it up.

This week, this weird week between Christmas and New Year, that’s what I’m working on. I completed my business plan weeks ago, but this week is about recalibrating after the holidays, reflecting on the year, looking back on the things that worked or didn’t, and looking forward to 2022.

Tips on Choosing Your Word of the Year

I have my short list that I’ll decide on later this week, but here are my tips if you have never chosen a word of the year and want to try it this year:

Think about where you want to be, or what you want to accomplish, in the year to come. Make a list of those things. You’ll likely see a common thread.

Would you like things to be easier? More simple? Are you looking for more balance in your business, relationships, etc.? Growth? Adventure?

Once you make a list of those things, that word, or spirit, will likely start to speak to you. If you’re looking for some inspiration for YOUR word, I’ve included a list below of 100 words to get you started.

Focusing on Your Word of the Year

Remember, it doesn’t have to mean anything to anyone but you!

Pro tip- when you have it, make it your Lock Screen, get a piece of jewelry with your word (this is what I do), write it on your mirror, a post it in your car, or wherever you’re going to see it all the time!

  1. Adventure
  2. Soar
  3. Peace
  4. Bountiful
  5. Ease
  6. Peace
  7. Balance
  8. Drive
  9. Vibrant
  10. Bloom
  11. Blossom
  12. Gratitude
  13. Grace
  14. Learn
  15. Mindful
  16. Explore
  17. Persistence
  18. Drive *my word for 2019
  19. Power
  20. Freedom
  21. Rebirth
  22. Transformation
  23. Growth
  24. Amplify
  25. Ascend
  26. Transcend
  27. Sparkle
  28. Ambition
  29. Flourish
  30. Maximize
  31. Minimize
  32. Breathe
  33. Comfort
  34. Perseverance
  35. Vitality
  36. Create
  37. Ignite
  38. Reflection
  39. Positivity
  40. Progress *My word for 2020
  41. Movement
  42. Release
  43. Centered
  44. Thoughtful
  45. Steady
  46. Flow *My word for 2021
  47. Fearless
  48. Energize
  49. Liberate
  50. Influence
  51. Affinity
  52. Acceptance
  53. Abundance
  54. Service
  55. Empower
  56. Simplify
  57. Faith
  58. Boundless
  59. Giving
  60. Cleanse
  61. Yes
  62. Build
  63. Confidence
  64. Committed
  65. Enough
  66. Grounded
  67. Imagine
  68. Manifest
  69. Passion
  70. Serenity
  71. Resolve
  72. Speak
  73. Strength
  74. Lead
  75. Worthy
  76. Authenticity
  77. Celebrate
  78. Connection
  79. Hope
  80. Purpose
  81. Sparkle
  82. Love
  83. Life
  84. Synergize
  85. Truth
  86. Achieve
  87. Nourish
  88. Stretch
  89. Strength
  90. Liberate
  91. Overcome
  92. Wholeness
  93. Richness
  94. Success
  95. Conquer
  96. Momentum
  97. Becoming
  98. Challenge
  99. Change
  100. Belief

Have fun choosing what will be inspiring to you. Good luck, and whatever your word is, have a beautiful, bountiful, New Year!