Choosing a word of the year for 2024

The how and the why

Have you chosen a word for the year?

It might be something you do every year, or it might be totally new to you.

I’ve been doing this for a few years now and I really enjoy the process of thinking of, then choosing and settling on a word.

The idea first came into my life when I was working with a therapist. She emailed annually to encourage me to think of a word of the year.

I know other people also do this, and some even use word searches to see which words jump out at them.

My therapist had a great method. In short, it was about considering different words, then seeing which ‘sat best’ with you. To look for the word in the real world, to sit with it and see what it meant. To see if it felt right for you.

I stick to this every year.

Words come and go, and this year the one that stuck is powerful.

It was ‘power’ at first, but powerful became more the word for me.

A close runner up and synonym of sorts is ‘oomph’.

Let me explain a bit more…

One word might not seem like much, but once you begin to answer a key question, you begin to unlock more to the word.

The question to ask is: ‘What does this word mean to me?’

Not what does it mean, but what does it mean to you?

For me, one theme comes through loud and clear: “It’s about standing in my truth. Not compromising on my values. Feeling strength in my bones and heart.”

Powerful is about work, for sure, but it’s also about body. It’s about getting back to a level of fitness I miss having. Mentally and physically.

That’s some of the ‘how’. What about the why?

I am sure some of you - or people you know - would say ‘Why choose a word? What’s the point?’

Well, there are a few reasons I’d encourage you to do it.

First of all, it helps you focus on YOU. Just some time to think about what you want, what matters to you, a word all of your very own. It’s about focusing in on what you hope to feel this year, not just do.

Secondly, choosing a word gives you a decision jumping off point, as well as one to come back to.

Decision pending? How does your word align with it?

Finally, remember that a word for the year is a guide. It’s about something you can use as a prompt and also something you can then align not just with your goals but also your actions. It’s not the word by which you should make every single decision, but it is something you can keep with you, like a little talisman. There to remind you which way you might want to go.

If you have a word and want to build on it. or you’re lost for, well, a word, why not see if coaching is the answer for you?

I am taking new one-on-one clients for coaching from w/c 22nd Jan. Six weeks to delve into your career goals, to connect with what you really want to achieve and make happen in 2024 when it comes to work.

Six sessions plus a CV/LinkedIn mentoring session are £1249 and that also includes email contact between sessions.

Want to know more? Email me at jennysholliday@gmail.com

xJenny