As we reach mid-January, the excitement around New Year's goals or resolutions might be fading. If this resonates with you, consider this a gentle invitation to revisit and revive your goals.
Remember my New Year's Reflection and Goal Planning Activity? Let's build on that and keep the motivation going. If you didn’t get a chance to check it out, that’s okay. This post is still for you!
Today we will take a moment to uncover your word of the year that will shape your journey and be the focal point that drives you forward in 2024. This word will be in alignment with what’s most important to you or where you want to see growth in your life. Think about what your mind, body, and relationships are craving the most.
Choose a word that revolves around key areas of your life such as personal, professional, and relational aspects.
I know it can be helpful to see an example, so I am sharing my own word of the year.
My word of the year
Based on the goals I have set for 2024, here is my word for health and relationships.
Health: My 2024 health word of the year is strong.
Strong body: The revelation of the word strong emerged during a New Year's goal-setting session I facilitated with my family. Having navigated setbacks stemming from health treatments and multiple surgeries, my path to regain my strength has become a notable milestone for me. Just a few years ago I was climbing rock walls, running for miles up hills and valleys, and lifting weights several days a week. However, my health circumstances led me to a point where I was struggling to stand; in some ways, I was starting over.
Now, after keeping my goals and routine on top of mind and through support from physical therapists and my husband, who helped me explore creative workout routines that got me out of my rut, I’m reaching my goals and have quadrupled the amount of weight I can lift. This progress unfolded gradually, one small step and day at a time, ultimately culminating in the strides I’ve made. I have come a long way, but know I still have a ways to go.
Strong mind: Our mind deserves nourishment as much as our body. Here are a few books on my 2024 reading list, and I've recently finished Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance.
By my birthday this June, I would like to have Soul Rest and Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity completed.
Relationships: My word of the year for my relationships and family is tradition.
Over the past few years, my focus has been on being more present with my loved ones. Although I am not perfect at it, I am satisfied with the direction it has been going and have found myself with some new positive habits. So, this year, my family word is tradition.
Our family would like to establish weekly and annual traditions that foster cherished memories. With kids aged 14, 10, and 6, we needed to get creative in coming up with activities that would bring us together.
One idea our family came up with was Sunday "make-your-own pizza night." Collaboratively, we create a grocery list, and each family member constructs their own pizza from scratch, from the dough to the toppings. Our six-year-old has even mastered making his own crust by stuffing cheese and rolled-up pepperoni inside. Following our pizza creations, we engage in a game night or enjoy a family movie together.
So, what is your word of the year for 2024? If you need help, check out my free tools below:
Living Intentional Planning Guide - This guide provides a simple framework to help you live in alignment with what’s most important to you based on life categories such as legacy, health, and passions.
In addition, here are a few tips to help you along the way.
Goal-setting and self-accountability tips:
Post your word of the year. Hang your word of the year and goals up where you can see them, or create a vision board to serve as a visual reminder and to keep you motivated.
Visualize your success. Imagine yourself successfully achieving your goals. Visualization can be a powerful motivator and help you stay focused on the end result.
Find an accountability partner. Pairing up with someone who shares similar goals can provide mutual support and encouragement. You can hold each other accountable and celebrate successes together.
Keep it SMART - SMART Goals help clarify your ideas and create an effective plan for success.
Specific – what do you want to accomplish, why, and how are you going to get there?
Measurable – how will you know you reached your goal, and what smaller milestones do you need to set in between?
Achievable – what skills do you need to acquire, and is the time frame realistic?
Relevant – how does this goal support your long-term goals and values?
Timely – when do you want to have this goal completed?
Let's make 2024 a year of alignment, growth, and intentional living. What's your word for the year, and what will you prioritize? Share your journey, and let's navigate this year together.
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