Choosing a Word of the Year: Aligning Intentions with Purpose

Choosing a Word of the Year is more than a trend—it’s a mindful practice that transforms how you show up for yourself and your business. It’s a gentle reminder of where you want to go and how you want to grow.

As we transition into a new year, many of us look for ways to set meaningful intentions—something that guides us, aligns with our goals, and inspires us to move forward. One approach I love is selecting a Word of the Year. It’s a simple yet profound practice that can shape the energy and focus we bring into the months ahead.

What exactly is a Word of the Year anyway?

A Word of the Year is a single word (or sometimes a short phrase) that acts as your north star. It’s not a resolution, but rather a theme or intention that reflects what you want to cultivate, embody, or achieve in the coming year. For some, it’s about embracing a mindset—like courage or peace. For others, it’s about guiding their actions—like growth or simplify.

This practice has gained popularity because it offers a refreshing alternative to rigid resolutions. Unlike a checklist of goals, a Word of the Year evolves with you, allowing for flexibility while keeping you aligned with your deeper intentions.

For instance, my word for 2024 was Create. It served as my anchor, reminding me to focus on building, growing, and crafting in both my personal and business life. Over the year, I created a streamlined system for managing my client workflows, launched new offerings that reflected my values and expertise, and even designed my Aligned Action Matrix to share with others. In my personal life, I created space for creative expression through journaling and mindfulness practices, which kept me grounded and inspired. Every time I felt overwhelmed, returning to Create reminded me of the joy and intention behind what I was building.

But, Why Choose a Word of the Year?

The benefits of selecting a Word of the Year go beyond motivation. Here’s why so many people find it transformative:

1. Flexibility: Unlike resolutions, which can feel restrictive, a Word of the Year adapts to your circumstances while keeping you grounded in what matters most.
2. Empowerment: It’s a reminder that you are the creator of your year. Your word acts as a touchstone, helping you regain perspective when challenges arise.
3. Focus: A single word distills your attention, helping you cut through the noise of daily life and make decisions that align with your intentions.
4. Inspiration: Seeing your word regularly—on a vision board, journal, or screensaver—can inspire you to take aligned action and stay connected to your “why.” 

Expanding the Practice: Two Words, Two Energies

If you’re already familiar with this practice, you know the magic of carrying your word into each decision and moment. But this year, I’m taking a different approach. Consider this: Have you ever thought about choosing separate words for different areas of your life? Your personal life and business have distinct needs and energies, each deserving their own intentional focus. Honoring that distinction can deepen the impact of your word.

In the past, I’ve used one word to guide all aspects of my life, but as I reflected on the energy of 2024, I realized that my personal life and business have different needs. Separating them allows me to honor their individuality while still working toward holistic alignment.

For instance, in 2025, I’ve chosen:

• Clarity for my business: Honestly, this word chose me. Over the last three months, I saw it everywhere—in emails, books, conversations, and podcasts. It was like the universe was tapping me on the shoulder, asking me to focus on bringing clarity to my systems, processes, and decisions.
• Neutrality for my personal life: This word struck me the moment I heard it. It felt aligned with where I want to go—embracing calm, balanced energy without being pulled into extremes. It’s about maintaining peace and presence no matter what life throws my way. Who doesn’t want more of that?😉

Viewing these areas as separate energy bodies allows me to meet their unique demands while staying intentional.

Your Turn: How to Choose Your Word

If selecting a Word of the Year resonates with you, I invite you to give it a try. It’s a powerful practice that brings intentionality to your days and helps guide your actions. Here’s some suggestions of how to choose your word(s):

1. Reflect: Take a moment to journal about the past year. What lessons did you learn? What feelings or themes do you want to carry forward into the new year?
2. Listen: Pay attention to recurring words or themes. Like my experience with Clarity, the universe might already be sending you signs.
3. Feel: Tune into what feels aligned. Sometimes, a word will resonate deeply the moment you hear it. Trust that intuition.
4. Anchor: Once you’ve chosen your word, write it down, set it as your screensaver, or incorporate it into your daily routines. Let it guide your decisions and remind you of your intentions throughout the year.

Choosing a Word of the Year isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. Whether your word feels like it finds you or you choose it consciously, it becomes a gentle guide, helping you align your energy with your goals and values.

Planting the Seeds of Intention

For heart-centered entrepreneurs, setting meaningful intentions is a powerful way to align your energy and focus for the year ahead. It’s an opportunity to connect deeply with your values and goals, creating a foundation for both personal and professional growth. By selecting a word that resonates with your purpose, you’re planting a seed for the energy you wish to cultivate, ensuring that every decision and action is infused with alignment and purpose.

What's Your Word(s)?

So, what will your word be? I’d love to hear if this practice resonates with you—and what word you feel called to carry into the new year. Share your word(s), intention, or thoughts on this approach of having different words for varying parts of life in the Soulpreneur Mindfulness Hub! Join us here.