Unlock Your Best Year Yet: The Power of Choosing a Word of the Year
“When you choose your word of the year, you're reprogramming your brain to align with and act on opportunities that bring your word to life.” - Noelle Kustas
Unlock Your Best Year Yet: The Power of Choosing a Word of the Year (and How to Make it Work for You)
Happy New Year! Are you ready to make 2025 truly amazing? I'm excited to share a powerful practice that has transformed my life and helped me live with more intention, clarity, and resilience: choosing a word of the year. This simple yet effective method for setting intentions can help you achieve your New Year's resolutions and unlock your full potential.
It's more than just a feel-good trend; choosing a word of the year is a game-changer! Think of it as your North Star, guiding your thoughts, actions, and personal growth throughout the year. ✨
My Word of the Year Journey: Finding Focus and Inspiration
This practice found me unexpectedly. Years ago, a close friend's wife was battling cancer with incredible grace and bravery. Her motto, "choose joy," deeply resonated with me. That year, "joy" became my compass, my own personal word of the year, changing how I approached challenges, celebrated wins, and even saw myself.
Since then, I've chosen a word of the year every year, and each one has shaped my life in profound ways. One year, it was "align," which helped me prioritize and let go of what wasn't serving me. This year, my word is "bold," pushing me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. It's been an incredible journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
The Science Behind Choosing a Word of the Year
This practice isn't just a whimsical idea; it's actually backed by science! Here's how choosing a word of the year works:
Your Reticular Activating System (RAS): This network of neurons in your brain acts as a filter, deciding what information gets your attention. When you choose a word of the year, you're essentially telling your RAS, "Hey, this is important to me!" Suddenly, you start noticing opportunities and ideas related to your word everywhere. It's like your brain is tuned in to a specific frequency.
Neuroplasticity: Your brain has the amazing ability to rewire itself! When you consistently reflect on your word of the year through journaling, affirmations, and daily reminders, you form new neural pathways. These small shifts in your thoughts and behavior compound over time, creating lasting change.
Emotional Resonance: Words like "joy," "courage," and "freedom" carry deep meaning and evoke powerful emotions. This emotional connection motivates you and inspires you to stay consistent with your word of the year, even when things get tough.
How to Choose YOUR Word of the Year
Ready to find your word of the year for 2025? Here's a simple 4-step process:
Reflect: Look back on 2024. What were your wins and challenges? What worked well, and what didn't? What are you most proud of? What areas of your life feel fulfilling? This reflection helps you identify where you are and where you want to go.
Brainstorm: Jot down any word of the year ideas that resonate with you. Think about how you want to feel this year, what you want to achieve, and who you want to become. Need inspiration? Look up words in a thesaurus, browse Pinterest for word of the year examples, or create a mood board.
Test: Narrow down your list of potential words by asking yourself:
How does this word feel emotionally, spiritually, and practically?
Does it excite me? Does it feel like a stretch without being overwhelming?
Can I see this word guiding me through the highs and lows of the year?
Live with each word for a day or two. Say it out loud, write it down, and see how it feels.
Commit: Once you've chosen your word of the year, commit to it fully! Write it in your planner, set it as your phone wallpaper, share it with others, and create a vision board. Putting your word out into the world makes it real and strengthens your intention.
Amplify Your Word of the Year
Here are some ways to integrate your word of the year into your daily life and amplify its power:
Daily Rituals: Write your word in your journal, say it out loud, or meditate on it.
Affirmations: Create affirmations that incorporate your word of the year, such as "I embody boldness in every decision I make today."
Monthly Check-Ins: At the beginning of each month, reflect on how your word of the year has shown up in your life.
Share with Others: Tell your friends and family about your word of the year and why you chose it. This creates community and accountability.
Ready to Rise and Shine in 2025?
Choosing a word of the year is a powerful way to set intentions, reprogram your mind, and create lasting change. It's about choosing a focus that feels meaningful to you, something that will grow and evolve with you as the year unfolds.
So, take the time today to reflect, brainstorm, test, and commit to your word of the year for 2025. Share your word of the year with me – I can't wait to hear what you choose!
Let's make 2025 unforgettable! ✨
The Rise2Shine Podcast Episode 39 | How to Choose Your Word of the Year and Change Your Life
Ready to shine brighter than ever before? Let's connect!
Tune in to The Rise2Shine Podcast for honest conversations, inspiring stories, and practical tools to help you navigate your next chapter.
Remember, you are not alone. Together, let's rewrite the narrative and redefine what it means to live a joyful, fulfilling life. Your next chapter is waiting, and it's going to be amazing!
XOXO,
Noelle Kustas
Rise2Shine Co
