Choose your 2025 Word of the Year

Choose Your Word of the Year: A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Intentions for 2025

Choosing a Word of the Year is such a beautiful way to set a tone for your intentions! It’s like having a personal mantra that keeps you focused and inspired throughout the year. Here’s how I’d recommend approaching it:

1. Reflect on the Past Year

Take a moment to think about the highs and lows of the previous year. What worked? What didn’t? What did you wish you had more of—or less of? Reflection can help you uncover patterns and priorities.

For example: If 2024 felt chaotic, maybe your word could be “Balance” or “Simplify.”

2. Envision the Year Ahead

Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve or feel this year? How do I want to grow as a person? What areas of my life need the most attention?

If you want to focus on taking more chances, your word could be “Brave” or “Courage.” If you’re craving personal growth, maybe “Evolve” or “Bloom” feels right.

3. Consider Your Core Values

Think about what’s important to you: family, creativity, health, career, spirituality, or something else. Your word should align with these values so it feels authentic and meaningful.

For example: If creativity is at the heart of your life, you might choose “Imagine” or “Inspire.”

4. Let It Come Naturally

Sometimes the perfect word pops into your head when you least expect it! You can brainstorm a list of potential words, then sit with them for a few days. Which one resonates the most?

5. Keep It Simple

Choose a word that’s easy to remember and can be applied across different areas of your life. A single, powerful word like “Joy,” “Focus,” or “Thrive” can be incredibly versatile.

6. Make It Visible

Once you’ve chosen your word, keep it front and center! Write it in your planner, set it as your phone wallpaper, or create a Vision Board using your word as the foundation.

First, gather your supplies. You’ll need a poster board, cardboard, index cards to create a booklet, or even a cork board works. Alternatively, you can decide to create a digital version to keep as the wallpaper on your laptop. Whatever method feels best for you.

Next, start with your word; write it in bold, beautiful letters right in the center of the board (or first index card). This could be handwritten, painted, printed, or even made with cut-out letters from magazines—get creative! Make sure it stands out because it’s the star of the show.

Now build your vision around it. Think about how it applies to different areas of your life—career, relationships, health, creativity, self-care, and beyond. Look for or create images, words, or symbols that represent these goals and intentions. Arrange them around your word like spokes on a wheel, showing how your word will guide each area.

Finally, be sure to add personal touches like photos of yourself or loved ones, quotes or affirmations that motivate you and fun embellishments like stickers, glitter, fabric scraps or anything that reflects your personality.

Once your vision board is complete, put it somewhere you’ll see it often. The more you see it, the more it’ll guide your daily choices.

Remember, this project isn’t just about crafting—it’s about creating a visual roadmap for the year ahead and setting yourself up for success. So grab your scissors and let your imagination run wild!

Choosing your Word of the Year is like setting a compass for your journey—it keeps you heading in the direction you want to go, even when life gets busy or unpredictable.

My 2025 WOTY is Strategy. What’s your word this year?