My introduction to the “word of the year” concept
The ‘wheel of life’ is a productive tool that helps my clients to narrow their focus on the area(s) of their life that needs improvement.
A few months ago, In my Momentum Coaching Mastermind group, I was introduced to another amazing tool (word for the year), it helps you to set your intention and theme for the year with one word.
How powerful is that?
Yes, I know, it’s March 2021 but it’s not too late to use this concept to create breakthroughs and transformations in 2021.
My one word is ADVENTURE
Not the traveling kind. I’m going to say “yes” to some things that I’ve always said “no” to and I’m going to take chances. One of my adventures is to drink a glass of red wine, three times per week, before going to bed, for an entire month. Why is this adventurous? Because I’m a teetotaler, so, drinking wine is definitely an adventure for me.
Teetotaler is one of a few labels I’m discarding in 2021.
How to choose your word of the year
Choose a word or phrase that captures all of your hopes, dreams, and inspirations for 2021. Share on X If you’re struggling to choose a word, it can be helpful to think of one word or phrase.
Here are three reasons you might want to consider this method:
One word or phrase invites simplicity
There’s something about a brand new year that encourages you to become an overachiever. You plan to start a fitness regimen, get a new job, find love, get out of debt, eat healthy, spend more time with loved ones, go back to school, or any number of other goals.
But having just one word or phrase to guide you can simplify your resolutions. Not only does this decrease stress, it also makes it easier to focus. You’re more likely to achieve big things when you’re not feeling pressured to do it all.
One word or phrase challenges you to be intentional.
It’s easy to think of resolutions like a dessert bar filled with cakes, candy, cookies, ice cream, and other goodies. You want one of everything, so it’s easy to load up on the things you think you’re supposed to want.
But what if you flipped the script? What if instead of trying to take a bit of everything, you just picked up one decadent dessert like a creamy cheesecake topped with a sweet cherry glaze or a slice of melt-in-your-mouth peach cobbler? What if you embraced the sweetness of now with a simple choice?
One word or phrase shifts your focus.
It’s easy to fixate on what you don’t like about yourself or your life. For example, if you’re in a bad situation that you can’t change, you may keep throwing around the word “stuck”.
But choosing one word to embrace can shift your focus. What if you used the word “purpose” to remind yourself that there’s a purpose for the situation you’re in? Or what if you chose the phrase “this too shall pass”?
A lot of creative people enjoy choosing a single word to act as focal point. Elizabeth Rider has a blog post with a list of words you might want to consider. Gretchen Rubin shares the words she and loved ones have used in the past few years on her blog.
You can let others know the word you chose by going to My One Word and posting about your word. You can even browse what words other people are picking to give you some inspiration. Regardless of what word you pick, just have fun and enjoy doing it!
It’s a Wrap
Your word of the year is a daily reminder of your intention Share on Xfor the day, week, month, year. It will make it easier for you to make decisions, reframe negative thoughts, experiences and stay focused on what you want to achieve.
Share your ‘word of the year’ and why you chose it, in the comment section below the post.
Click the links below to download a free workbook and a list of words to choose from. Enjoy your adventure.
By the way, shares and social media mentions, make me smile.
You’re unstoppable!
Adalia