Starting the Year with Intention: The One Word Practice
New Year, New Word
Every year, instead of making resolutions or setting lofty goals that often fade by February, I choose a word—one word to anchor my intentions for the months ahead. This tradition feels more sustainable, more personal, and less like setting myself up for an inevitable guilt trip.
Resolutions can feel rigid, like a pass-or-fail test. But a word? It’s fluid, adaptable, and grows with you. It’s not about perfection but about direction. For me, it’s a reminder to live intentionally, to pause and ask, “Does this align with the person I want to be?”
This year, my word is "Nourish."
It’s a word that holds so much meaning for me. It’s about feeding what truly matters—my mind, my body, and my spirit. It’s about embracing the stretch and discomfort that come with growth, but also balancing that with care and restoration. "Nourish" reminds me that self-care isn’t indulgent; it’s essential.
As we step into another year, this word will guide me in making choices that nurture my well-being, foster meaningful connections, and cultivate a sense of purpose.
Why I Chose "Nourish"
Over the Christmas break, I experienced something rare: a sense of balance and care that felt restorative and grounding. Those days were filled with intentional rest, moments of connection, and a rhythm that allowed me to slow down and recharge. It was a reminder of how good life can feel when I prioritise myself and what truly matters.
But as we all know, the return to routine can make that balance hard to sustain. The pace of daily life often pulls us in every direction, leaving little space for the nourishment we need to thrive. I’ve noticed how easy it is to neglect the things I know I need and fall into habits that drain rather than restore me.
That’s why I chose "nourish" as my word for the year. It’s a word that encompasses everything I want to carry forward:
Intention: The deliberate choice to feed my mind, body, and spirit with what fuels me.
Balance: Honouring the stretch and discomfort that come with growth, but pairing it with rest and restoration.
Mindfulness: Looking at every decision through the lens of whether it nourishes my well-being, relationships, or goals.
To me, “nourish” isn’t just about growth—it’s about how I tend to that growth with care, patience, and love. It’s a reminder that thriving isn’t about pushing harder; it’s about choosing what sustains and strengthens me.
“Nourish" in Daily Life
Choosing "nourish" as my word of the year isn’t just a lofty idea—it’s a guide for real, tangible actions I can take in my daily life. Here's how I plan to apply it across different areas of my well-being:
1. Physically:
Nourishing my body means being intentional about what I eat, staying active, and ensuring I get enough rest. Healthy food, regular movement, and proper sleep are the foundations of energy and vitality, and I’m committed to prioritising them this year.
2. Emotionally:
On an emotional level, "nourish" reminds me to treat myself with kindness and compassion. It’s about nurturing meaningful relationships, surrounding myself with people who lift me up, and setting healthy boundaries to protect my mental health.
3. Spiritually:
Spiritually, it’s about aligning my actions with my core values and sense of purpose. Whether it’s through mindfulness, journaling, or simply being present, I want to cultivate a life that feels deeply meaningful and connected to what truly matters.
These practical steps will help me not just grow, but thrive, as I focus on nourishing every part of myself this year. What does nourishing yourself look like for you?
Tending to My Growth
Growth doesn’t just happen—it’s something I have to actively tend to, with intention, effort, and a willingness to let go of what no longer serves me.
Setting intentions: Taking time to reflect on what truly matters and staying focused on that.
Putting in the effort: Growth isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about small, steady actions that add up over time.
Letting go of what holds me back: Whether it’s unhelpful habits or negative self-talk, recognising what no longer serves me and choosing to move on.
Appreciating the process: Reminding myself that growth isn’t just about the results—it’s found in the everyday effort and the lessons along the way.
This year, tending to my growth means showing up for myself, being intentional, and celebrating progress, no matter how small.
Reflections
Choosing "nourish" as my word for the year feels like planting a flag in the ground—a constant reminder to prioritise what truly matters. It’s not just about pushing through challenges but also about caring for myself in a way that supports meaningful growth. As I navigate the year ahead, I’ll use this word to guide my choices, to pause and ask, “Does this nourish me?”
Last year, my word was "daring," chosen with the intention of having the courage to take greater leaps. It was about shedding reluctance and moving away from playing safe all the time.
Did it guide me? I think so. I’ve continued to challenge my mind—to learn and unlearn—and to have the courage to change my views when necessary. I’ve also been working on a personal project that has truly started to take shape. While I’m not quite ready to share the details, it’s something that’s pushing me far outside my comfort zone, and it feels both exhilarating and rewarding.
What about you? Have you chosen a word to anchor your year? If not, I encourage you to reflect on what you want to feel, experience, or prioritise in the months ahead.
I’d love to hear from you—what’s your word for the year, and why does it resonate with you? If you’re unsure where to start, think about what you’d like to focus on, simplify, or embody this year. Share your word in the comments or let me know how you’re planning to make it your own!
