Feeling overwhelmed by life’s noise? A simple word can bring clarity, guiding you back to what’s essential and keeping your mind calm—no endless lists required!
I sat at the kitchen table in the dim early morning light. The quiet curled around me with arms of comfort. I stared at the steam rising from my hot tea, my favorite pen resting in my hand like an old friend. The world outside was still asleep, and in this peaceful moment, I glanced down at my journal, scribbling words as they floated into my mind. Each one felt like a small piece of the puzzle, hinting at something I needed but couldn’t quite name yet. The stillness wrapped around me, and slowly, the right word began to take shape.
I have learned the key for this piece is to not overthink it. So I just let the words come until one sticks.
The night before I had scrolled on my phone looking for “Word of the Year” ideas.
- Balance
- Courage
- Gratitude
- Focus
- Strength
- Abundance
- Joy
- Clarity
- Resilience
- Empower
- Simplify
- Connection
- Peace
- Progress
- Patience
- Harmony
- Presence
- Health
- Creativity
- Positivity
- Consistency
- Kindness
The lists I found were helpful. I had let the ideas simmer in my mind overnight….
Now I planned to write out notes on the ONE word that would become my theme for the next few months (for what was left of winter and the coming spring season).
A word came to me. I wrote it down at the top of a new page.
I made a few quick notes on how this word would impact the different roles I have and the jobs I juggle. Then I went and pulled my Granddad’s faded red Webster’s Dictionary from the shelf. Carefully I read through all the definitions of the word. I made notes on the ones that stood out and the synonyms that would help me with clarity.
I took the last sip from my mug of tea and the sun began to peek through the kitchen curtains. Thankful for my new clarity I took a breath and relaxed my shoulders.
I used to do “Word of the Year” themes but I found that time frame too long for me. I would often forget about it or do nothing with it. So I switched to a word theme for the season.
I don’t pick a word for every spring, summer, fall, or winter—I’m not that organized! But when inspiration strikes, it’s like a little compass pointing me in the right direction. Usually, when I am overwhelmed it is a result of being pulled in too many directions. Either by my expectations or from listening to a variety of bossy gurus1.
Choosing a word for the season helps me quiet the noise.
I love setting intentions and focusing on what matters to me. Having a theme for the season helps alleviate decision fatigue. It provides a filter to put things through.
“Choosing a one-word theme can provide clarity and focus. It’s a way to set your intentions for the year, to keep yourself on track without feeling overwhelmed by a list of resolutions.”
— Gretchen Rubin2
Tips for Finding Your Word:
- Reflect on the Past Year: Think about what worked, what didn’t, and what you want more of. Your word might emerge from what you want to cultivate in the coming year.
- Ask Yourself Questions: What do you need more of? What do you want to focus on? What challenges are you ready to tackle?
- Draw from Inspiration: Flip through a favorite book, song lyrics, or even a quote you love. You might find the perfect word hidden in the things that already inspire you.
- Pick a Theme: Decide what area of your life needs the most attention—whether it’s health, relationships, career, or personal growth—and choose a word that represents that focus.
- Trust Your Gut: Sometimes, the right word will just feel right. Trust your instincts, and if a word keeps coming back to you, it’s probably the one.
Reflection Questions:
What word resonates with the changes I want to make in my personal or professional life?
If I had to describe this next season in one word, what would it be?
As you embark on this journey of choosing your Word of the Season, remember that this is a personal exploration, not a rigid rulebook. Allow your word to be a gentle guide, offering you clarity and inspiration as you navigate life.
Embrace the journey with kindness towards yourself, knowing that it’s okay if your word evolves or shifts as the next few months unfold.
Here’s to a year filled with intention and warmth!
💙 – April
1 Podcast #32: Stop Collecting Gurus by Emily P Freeman
2 What’s Your One-Word Theme for the New Year? — Gretchen Rubin often discusses the concept of a “one-word theme” in her podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, and in her blog posts.