My Word of the Year for 2025 + how it all started

What were you doing in 2017 ? For me it was one of those life-altering years —an upside-down, everything-turned-on-its-head kind of year. Have you ever had one of those?

For me, the most significant shift was the sudden and complete end of a 17 ½-year marriage. It felt like stepping into the “Upside Down” world from Stranger Things—a hazy, distorted version of my life where nothing quite felt real. As that challenging year drew to a close, the thought of New Year’s Resolutions—something I had done for years—left me feeling paralyzed. The traditional way I had always set goals just didn’t feel possible anymore.

That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of choosing a Word of the Year while listening to a podcast. It felt like exactly what I needed at that moment—a simpler, more intuitive way to approach personal growth and transformation.

Now, eight years later, this practice has completely changed my life. Each year, my word serves as a compass, guiding my decisions, priorities, and energy. Instead of the pressure of traditional resolutions, my word helps me focus on what truly matters and creates meaningful growth.

If resolutions or rigid goal-setting leave you feeling defeated, detached, or uninspired, a Word of the Year might be just what you need.

How to Choose Your Word of the Year

The process is simple but powerful. Here’s how to find your word:

1. Reflect on the Past Year:
   • What gave you energy?
   • What drained your energy?
     This helps you decide what to bring into the new year and what to leave behind.
2. Ask Yourself:
   • How do I want to feel this year?
   • What do I want to create?

Write down any words that come to mind. Once you find the one that resonates deeply, you’ve got your word!

How to Use Your Word of the Year

Once you have your word, let it guide you. Use it as a lens to:

• Set goals and make decisions.
• Choose the people you spend time with.
• Decide how to spend your energy and react to challenges.
• Show up in your relationships with intention.

Your word becomes your compass, gently steering you throughout the year.

The Impact of My 2024 Word: Alignment

My 2024 word was Alignment, and it brought incredible changes. Some of the highlights:

• I stopped dyeing my hair and embraced my natural self.
• We downsized from 3,500 square feet to 1,000 square feet.
• I eliminated paper towel use completely.
• I walked away from partnerships that didn’t align with my values.
• I spoke up for myself in ways I never had before.
• I went back to therapy.
• I found answers to health issues I’d been struggling with.
• I deepened important relationships and had honest conversations that lifted a weight off my shoulders.

These changes, though challenging at times, brought immense personal and professional growth.

My Word for 2025: Clarity

For 2025, my word is Clarity. It started floating around in my mind in late 2024, and I knew it was the one. Over the years, I’ve learned that clear = kind. Being vague often leads to misunderstandings and resentment, while being clear fosters connection and understanding.

This year, I want to find clarity in every area of my life:

• Physical health
• Emotional well-being
• Career goals
• Relationships
• Financial planning
• Personal growth
• Learning
• Home life

Previous Words of the Year

Here are my previous words

• 2018 Peace
• 2019 Joy
• 2020 Intentional
• 2021 Love
• 2022 Celebrate
• 2023 Simplify
• 2024 Alignment

Every year I have improved on how to stay connected with my word and allow it to guide me.

What’s Your Word?

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you have a Word of the Year? If not, are you considering choosing one for 2025?

If you’re curious about the details of my 2025 goals or want tips on how to use your word effectively, let me know in the comments or send me a message. Let’s inspire each other to create a year of intention and growth.