I have a very detailed life planning framework that I use – and I’ll be sharing it in a blog post in the next few weeks – but before going into that, I thought I would start with something simple. Something that anyone can use right away. Something even people who hate New Years resolutions and detailed plans can embrace!
You’ve probably heard about it before: choosing a Word of the Year.
Why Choose a Word of the Year?
Having one word as a guiding principle for the year is an easy yet very effective tool. Unlike a detailed plan with multiple layers, a single word is something you can keep in mind at all times – a quick touchstone that helps you make decisions, set intentions, and stay aligned with what really matters to you.
For example, last year my word was Authenticity. I chose it because I wanted to stop filtering myself to fit into expectations, and to embrace my real, unpolished self.
I don’t know if I fully stepped into it all the way through 2024, but I spent the year trying. It was my reminder to be honest with myself and others, to make choices that felt right for me rather than what I thought I should do. And now, in 2025, I feel like I’ve arrived. This blog itself is a perfect example – I don’t want to create a polished, filtered version of my experiences. I want to share my real, raw, and authentic self, and be proud of that.
My Word for 2025: Freedom
For 2025, my word is Freedom.
If Authenticity was about discovering and embracing my true self, Freedom is about fully living in that truth. It’s about freeing myself from anything that no longer serves me – corporate expectations, burnout, old narratives, or obligations that drain me instead of energising me.
It means making decisions based on what feels right for me, not out of guilt, pressure, or habit. It’s about stepping into freedom – in how I work, how I live, and how I express myself.
Every time I face a challenge or feel stuck, I’ll ask myself:
Is this a choice that honours my freedom?
If the answer is no, that’s a sign to pause, reflect, and possibly choose a different path.
How to Choose Your Word of the Year
If this concept resonates with you, here are some simple steps to help you find your own word:
- Reflect on the past year – What themes stood out? What challenges or lessons shaped you?
- Think about what you want more of – What do you crave? Peace? Strength? Growth? Fun?
- Consider what you need to let go of – Are there habits, thoughts, or situations holding you back?
- Let the right word find you – Sometimes, a word will keep popping into your head, and that’s the one you need.
Once you have your word, keep it front and centre. Write it somewhere visible, make it your phone wallpaper, or journal about it regularly. Let it be your compass for the year ahead.
How to Use Your Word Throughout the Year
Choosing a word is just the beginning. To truly make it impactful, integrate it into your daily life:
- Start each day with intention – In the morning, take a moment to reflect on your word. Ask yourself: How can I embody this word today?
- Use it as a decision-making filter – When facing choices, big or small, check in with your word. Does this align with my intention for the year?
- Journal about it regularly – Track how your word is showing up in your life, what challenges you face, and how you’re growing through it.
- Create visual reminders – Whether it’s on a sticky note, a vision board, or your phone wallpaper, having your word visible helps reinforce it.
- Revisit and adjust – Mid-year, check in with your word. Is it still guiding you in the right direction? Do you need to refocus or redefine its meaning for the rest of the year?
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Word of the Year is one of the simplest but most effective ways to set an intention and stay on track. It’s a great way to focus without overcomplicating things.
Whether you create detailed plans (like I do) or prefer a looser approach, having one guiding word can help you stay aligned with what truly matters.
So, what’s your word for 2025?
Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear!
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