What's Your Word for 2026?

Over the last few years, I have chosen a word to guide my decisions, habits, and energy in the new year (rather than setting New Year's resolutions, which rarely work).

For 2026, mine is:

Focus

I want to do less and have more impact.

How it will guide me:

• Choose 3-4 flagship offerings in my consulting business instead of many

• Create a calmer, more intentional calendar

• Focus on ROI activities like speaking, email list, and partnerships

• Do more of what I truly enjoy and is line with my gifts

• Focus on what I can impact, and give the rest to God

Tips for Coming Up with Your Word of the Year

1️⃣ Reflect on the Past Year

Start by asking yourself:

• What was most challenging this past year?

• What drained me? What energized me?

• What do I wish I had more or less of?

This helps you see what you want to leave behind, and what you want to grow.

2️⃣ Identify What You Want Most in the Year Ahead

Think about what’s really calling you:

• A feeling you want to embody (calm, bold, joy, ease)

• A habit you want to build (focus, consistency, discipline)

• A shift you want to make (boundaries, clarity, connection)

Your word should support the version of yourself you're becoming.

3️⃣ List Words That Resonate

Do a brain dump of words that come to mind.

Example words:

Courage, Thrive, Strength, Balance, Expand, Peace, Boundaries, Growth, Trust, Joy, Grace, Flourish, Reset, Momentum

Circle or star the ones that feel exciting or a little scary in a good way.

4️⃣ Test Your Word

Say it out loud. Imagine it on a mug, a journal, or as wallpaper.

Ask yourself:

• Does this energize me?

• Would it guide my decisions?

• Does it stretch me?

If it feels flat… choose again.

5️⃣ Define What It Will Mean for You

Give your word clarity by defining what it looks like daily:

• "Courage" = speak up, ask for what I need, try new things

• "Peace" = say no more often, protect my time, eliminate drama

• "Consistency" = follow through on 3 priorities each week

A word only works when it has actions attached.

6️⃣ Create a Reminder System

Your word should live with you, not just sit in a notebook.

Ideas:

• Make it your phone wallpaper

• Put it in your planner

• Add it to your email signature

• Place sticky notes where you see them daily

• Create a vision board and make it visible

  
  

✨ A Quick Shortcut Method

If all this feels like too much, ask yourself:

What do I need most this year?

The first word that pops into your mind is usually the right one.

I would love to hear your word of the year!