Ah, 2024 is almost here! Which means it’s time to determine your annual New Year’s resolutions…
Every year, millions of people worldwide make New Year’s resolutions. We vow to exercise more, eat healthier, spend more time with our family, or finally read War and Peace (which I still haven’t read btw). But by February, most of those resolutions are forgotten, abandoned, or broken. Does this sound familiar? If so, it’s time for a new approach.
What’s the alternative? Instead of resolutions, how about choosing a word of the year? A word that will guide you, inspire you, and remind you of your goals, your values, and your dreams.
Curious about why so many people have switched to choosing a WOTY (word of the year) instead of the traditional resolutions, what it means, and how you can pick one for yourself? Read on!
Word of the Year Versus New Years Resolutions
Now, you may be wondering why a word is better than a resolution. The answer is simple – a word of the year is more flexible and gives you a broader goal to work towards. Unlike resolutions that tend to be specific and have a deadline, a word of the year is an overarching theme that can guide you throughout the year. You can apply it to all areas of your life and adapt it to meet your needs.
The problem with New Year’s resolutions is that they can be difficult to keep. We set unrealistic goals for ourselves and when we don’t achieve them, we feel like failures. This can lead to a vicious cycle of negative self-talk that ultimately leaves us feeling worse than when we started. Instead of this cycle, try using a word of the year to help guide your decisions and actions over the next twelve months.
On the other hand, a word is simple and easy to remember. A word can be incredibly powerful. A word of the year is a theme that encapsulates your intentions, your values, and your aspirations. It’s not a fixed goal, but a flexible framework.
What is a WOTY
So, what exactly is a word of the year? I like to think of it as a guiding principle for the year ahead. It’s a word that captures who you want to be or what you want to achieve in the next twelve months. It’s aspirational and doesn’t have to be finite. Your word can evolve throughout the year as you grow and change. It can be a personal reminder of what you want to focus on or a guiding light to keep you on track for that year.
Essentially, it’s about choosing a word to guide your choices, actions, and mindset for the next year. It’s less about achieving specific goals and more about cultivating a new attitude or way of being. Your chosen word should be a reminder of who you want to be and how you want to show up in the world. You can interpret it in different ways, apply it to different areas of your life, and adjust it as you go. This can lead to a sense of empowerment, curiosity, and growth.
For example, your word of the year could be “simplify,” “creativity,” “gratitude,” “connection,” “adventure,” or “courage.” This word can serve as a touchstone, a reminder, and a guide in your daily life. It can help you make decisions, set priorities, and stay true to yourself.
How to Choose Your Word
Now that you know what a word of the year is, let’s talk about how to pick a word that will resonate with you. Begin by reflecting on the year that has passed. What were the highs and lows? Lessons that you learned? Aspects of your life that you enjoyed? What did you struggle with? Consider what you want to carry forward and what you want to leave behind.
Think about what you want to achieve in the next year. What areas of your life do you want to focus on, such as career, relationships, or personal growth? Brainstorm a list of words that align with your reflections and aspirations, inspire you, or reflect your current situation.
Jot down words from books, songs, movies, or conversations. Ask yourself some questions, such as: What do I want more of in my life? What do I want less of in my life? What am I curious about? Afraid of? Characteristics that I admire in others? Ways I am proud of myself? Then, you can reflect on your list and choose a word that stands out, resonates, or feels right for you. Write them down and see which one resonates with you the most.
You’ve Chosen Your WOTY, Now What?
Once you’ve selected your word, it’s time to put it into action.
Make your word visible and a part of your daily life. There are a few ways to do this, depending on your style. Write it down, create a vision board around it, or use it as a screen saver. Some prefer to write down their word and keep it in a place where they’ll see it often, like on their phone lock screen or on a sticky note on their computer monitor. Consider sharing your word with a friend or accountability partner who can help cheer you on and keep you focused throughout the year.
Last year, I ordered a mug with my word of the year on it and drank my morning tea from it at least once a week. Sadly, the company no longer makes mugs so I’m on the hunt for another mug that I like just as much! My amazing niece has taken up pottery, so maybe she’ll make one for me (hint, hint Blaine!).
Refer to it when you need a reminder of what you’re working towards, and let it guide your decisions. As the year progresses, reflect on your word and see how it’s played out in your life.
Celebrate the wins and learn from the challenges.
My 2024 Word of the Year: Consistency
You may be wondering why I chose consistency. Well, let me tell you, my friends, consistency is the ultimate game-changer. It’s the difference between those who succeed and those who don’t. It’s what allows some people to build successful habits, businesses or careers. And consistency is a trait you can cultivate over time, turning it into a skill that will serve you well in every aspect of your life.
How I plan to incorporate my 2024 Word of the Year
How do I plan to incorporate consistency into my life? I will be more mindful of my daily routines. I am re-establishing a morning routine that I can stick to every day, which includes some meditation, exercise, and a gratitude practice. This will help set the tone for my day and give me the energy and motivation to tackle each task with consistency and purpose.
I’ll be incorporating the 12 week year into my goal plans for 2024 – setting achievable goals daily, weekly, and monthly that will lead me to my bigger picture goals. Consistency is all about being intentional with your actions and ensuring that you’re working towards your goals every day. Whether it’s spending an hour studying every evening or working on a side hustle for a few hours every weekend, I’ll be intentional with my free time.
These are just a few ways I plan to incorporate my word for 2024 into my life!
Check out what my WOTY for 2023.
Choosing a word of the year can be a more effective and fulfilling way to set intentions, live authentically, and grow personally. Instead of making resolutions that often lead to frustration, guilt, or comparison, a word of the year can serve as a powerful and flexible framework that guides you toward your goals, values, and dreams. By picking a word that resonates with you, and using it in different ways, you can create a sense of clarity, purpose, and joy in your life. Why not give it a try this year, and see what word speaks to you? Who knows, it may be the word that changes your life for the better.
I’d love to know what you decide for your 2024 WOTY! Leave a comment below to share your word and how you plan to incorporate it into your life.
