It’s time again to choose a word of the year. Choosing your word of the year does not have to feel hard. I have done it for several years, and it is a fun thing to do. There is no specific way to do it. Find a way that works for you. Your word of the year enhances your potential.
It is a reminder of what is important to you. I didn’t have any idea what my word of the year was until it came to me. I realized I didn’t have to settle for one and instead chose two. For 2026, I’m choosing two words: discipline and embrace.
The things that I want will require both words. Sort of like my personal life coaches for the new year. I have seen what I am capable of and what didn’t work. Maybe it’s that way for you, too.
Everyone has dreams and goals. Some are big, and some may be small. If they mean something to you, maybe a word or two could help.
I chose discipline because there are things that I want to get better at, like being physically fit, saving money, not being focused on what I’ve lost, moving forward, and elevating in life.
That is where discipline comes in. Different results mean not doing the same stuff that didn’t work before.
The word embrace means that I am going to welcome where I am in each season. It’s a form of acceptance and welcoming what is already in my life.
Sometimes you must be willing to stop, pause, reflect, and accept. That is the kind of mentality that I want to bring into the new year.
Choosing a word or two
So how can you find your word or words of the year?
First, think about the things you want for the new year. Write anything that comes to mind. What kind of word or words would pair nicely with your goals? Write the words that come up for you.
Next, see which word resonates with you. Does it inspire you to hold onto it, or is it merely a word? Pick a word that will work with you.
Having a daily reminder of your word is helpful.
Put it on a Post-it note and stick it on your mirror, at your desk, in your car, or at your nightstand. It is there to remind you of why you chose it and your goal of it becoming a reality.
I like to think of a word of the year as a positive affirmation that can only enhance me. It can be like a challenge to yourself to see if you can do it. Discipline and embrace may sound hard and soft. However, I need a little bit of each to get things done right.
Lastly, after you write your words, let them marinate a little bit. Go grab a cup of coffee or tea, and afterward, you get to decide on a word or two.
My hope for you is that you choose a word or more, that is a preview of what you want this year. May this experience be everything that you wish it to be and so much more.
Remember you get to pick one or two that embody your potential. Keep going my friend, you can do it. What do you think?