Do you have a word of the year?
I’ve chosen one every year since I first learned about this technique from one of my coaches almost 10 years ago.
Before that I was easily distracted by new possibilities, unclear about what was most important to me, and spreading myself too thin.
Now, having a word of the year helps me with clarity, focus, and motivation.
If you‘ve never chosen a word of the year or you’re struggling to find one that fits for 2024, this might help.
3 tips to choose your word
As you’re considering what you want in the coming year – what’s important for you, what you want to focus on, or want to move toward – keep this in mind:
1. Take Your Time
Sometimes a word may come to you immediately. That was the case for me in 2021, when I chose Ripple. My energy was low after the pandemic prevented me from spending Christmas with my family in the UK. I wanted a word that felt gentle, but also suggested a far-reaching impact and Ripple came to me quickly. But selecting a word that resonates deeply can require more pause for thought. Allow yourself the luxury of time to reflect on your values, aspirations, and the essence of what you want for yourself this year. There’s no deadline 🙂
2. Be Open To Change
At the beginning of 2024, I thought that my word would be “Less.” Then, with the heartbreaking news of the New Year’s Day earthquake in Japan followed by the Haneda plane collision, somehow that word no longer felt right. I briefly considered Wise because that’s a word that feels good to me and is also the name of my program for growth-minded women. And I pondered over several other options before choosing my new word (see below). As you navigate through your thoughts and feelings, no need to feel pressure to get it right the first time. It’s fine to be flexible and open to change.
3. Enjoy Authenticity
You may find that more people are asking, “What’s your word of the year?” So you might be tempted to choose a word that sounds good to others. Remember, it’s not about them. It’s about you. What resonates authentically with you? It could even be a kanji character, a phrase, or multiple words – I chose 3 words in 2020!!! Do what works for you 🙂
If you find it difficult to think about what you WANT, no worries! That’s normal too. You may find it helpful to consider what you DON’T want and then choose a word that describes the opposite. For example, if you DON’T want to be overwhelmed, you might choose a word like Ease, Joy, or Flow.
55 words to get you started
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some ideas.
And especially if you’re doing this in your non-native language: you can use an online thesaurus or 類語辞典.
You can use a noun, verb, or adjective. There’s no right or wrong.
My word of the year
So what’s my word of the year for 2024 – the year of the Dragon?
It’s Light.
I chose this because it brings the meaning of hope, positivity, and clarity. It’s also a reminder to reduce what feels heavy and turn toward what’s more uplifting.
That aligns it with my mantra of Less Effort More Impact.
And, did you know that the name Helen means “Light”?
A word of warning
I’ve known some people who enthusiastically took the time to choose a word of the year and then completely forgot about it! That’s mottainai (a waste).
You might find it helpful to have your word of the year easily visible, such as on your screensaver, in your planner, on a sticky note on the bathroom mirror, or even on a trinket. I love these from Off on a Whim.
Remember that this practice and process is about self-discovery and personal empowerment. Take your time, be open to change, and enjoy authenticity.
Your chosen word is a personal guide for the year ahead, so let it be a true reflection of the incredible journey you’re about to embark upon (if you choose to do so).
Here’s to a year filled with meaningful intentions and transformative growth! 🥂
Missing the Sasuga! Podcast?
You might enjoy Episode 104: Why Having A Word Of The Year Is More Important Than Ever
If you want to feel more relaxed, focused, and fulfilled…
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