Setting a One-Word Intention for the New Year: Your Compass for Growth and Fulfillment
As we welcome the New Year, there’s an energy of renewal and possibility. Instead of crafting a long list of resolutions, I’ve found that focusing on one powerful word—a guiding intention—can be transformative. This practice has helped me grow, stay aligned, and accomplish my goals for the past decade. It’s a practice I deeply believe in, and I invite you to embrace it too.
Why Choose One Word as Your Intention?
A single word can act as a compass, guiding your thoughts, actions, and energy throughout the year. Unlike rigid resolutions, a one-word intention is adaptable and rooted in who you are becoming. It creates focus and clarity while allowing for growth and self-compassion.
For the last ten years, I’ve set an intention each year to cultivate a specific skill or mindset:
2020: Authenticity – Showing up as my true self in every space.
2021: Structure – Building systems and routines to support my dreams.
2022: Inner Peace – Cultivating balance and mindfulness in all areas of life.
2023: Gratitude – Focusing on the abundance already present in my life.
2024: Surrender – Letting go of control and trusting the process.
Each word has served as a guidepost, helping me navigate challenges, make aligned choices, and stay connected to my goals. This year, my word is Abundance—a commitment to embracing the opportunities, blessings, and possibilities that surround me.
The Journey to Shining My Light
Choosing intentions over the years has not only helped me grow but also supported me in overcoming one of my deepest struggles: shining my light fully and unapologetically. For so long, I dimmed my light to make others feel comfortable, afraid that standing out might alienate or overwhelm those around me.
But through my inner work and personal journey, I’ve learned an essential truth: I must give myself permission to shine my light as bright as I want. Living authentically is not just about showing up for myself—it’s also about inspiring others to do the same.
Marianne Williamson’s iconic quote resonates deeply with this realization:
“As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence actually liberates others.”
And perhaps even more powerful is this line:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”
These words remind me that embracing my power and authenticity is not selfish—it’s necessary. When I give myself permission to be loud and proud, to celebrate my uniqueness, I create a ripple effect for those around me.
Seeing My Clients Shine
This truth is central to the work I do with my clients. I love seeing them step into their greatness, recognizing their unique gifts, and finally allowing themselves to dream big. When they give themselves permission to live fully and unapologetically, life begins to respond. Opportunities, connections, and abundance flow to them in ways they once only imagined.
Witnessing this transformation is my greatest joy. It reaffirms that the more I show up authentically, the more I empower others to do the same.
How to Choose Your One-Word Intention
If you’re ready to set your intention for the New Year, here’s how to find your word:
Reflect on Your Journey
What have you learned this past year? What challenges did you face, and what strengths did you cultivate?Identify What You Need Most
What would help you grow in the coming year? Is it courage, balance, connection, joy, or something else?Listen to Your Intuition
Sit quietly with your thoughts and brainstorm words that resonate. One word will feel like it fits—it’s the one that lights a spark in you.Embrace It Fully
Once you’ve chosen your word, trust it. Let it guide your decisions, actions, and mindset throughout the year.
Living Your Intention
Your one-word intention is not a rigid goal; it’s a fluid guide. To keep it front and center, consider these practices:
Create Visual Reminders: Write your word where you’ll see it daily—on a sticky note, in your planner, or as your phone background.
Reflect Often: Journal about how your word is shaping your experiences.
Use It in Decisions: Let your word influence how you spend your time, energy, and focus.
Your Light Is Meant to Shine
As you step into the New Year, remember this: You are powerful beyond measure. Your one-word intention is not just a tool for growth—it’s a reminder of your light, your purpose, and your potential.
Choose your word with intention, let it guide you, and watch as your life aligns in ways you never imagined. And as you shine, you’ll inspire others to do the same.
Here’s to a year of intention, abundance, and living boldly! What will your word be? 🌟