Choosing a Word of the Year: A Practice That’s Changed My Life Since 2017
- Kayla Visi
- Dec 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Every December, as the world begins to quiet and I settle deeper into reflection, I return to a practice that has shaped my life more than I ever expected: choosing my Word of the Year.
I started this practice in 2017—not because of a trend or a challenge—but because I was craving clarity. I wanted a way to step into each new year with intention instead of pressure. What surprised me was how profoundly one simple word could shift my mindset, my habits, and even my idea of what was possible.
Why a Word of the Year Works
Unlike resolutions, which often feel rigid or loaded with expectations, a Word of the Year acts as a guiding energy. It’s a theme. A compass. A steady whisper that gently brings you back to who you want to become. It's a reminder of your intentions for the year. What's been so ironic for me though, is once you pick your word, the universe has a way of showing you just how powerful it can be.
Your word can:
• Help you make aligned decisions
• Set the tone for your emotional and spiritual growth
• Support your wellness goals
• Anchor you during stressful seasons
• Inspire creativity, rest, or discipline—whatever you truly need
It’s less about doing and more about being.
How My Words Have Shaped Me
Every year my word finds me in a different way. Sometimes it shows up in a conversation. Sometimes in a difficult season. Sometimes in a quiet moment when I finally slow down enough to listen.
Choosing a word each year has changed the way I perceive the future. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the unknown, I feel supported—like I’m entering the year with a friend, a focus, and a deeper understanding of what matters.
How to Choose Your Word
1. Reflect on your past year
Ask yourself:
• What felt draining?
• What felt nourishing?
• What do I want more of?
• What do I want to release?
2. Tune into your body
Because healing is both physical and emotional, notice what you feel when you try out different words:
• Does your chest feel tight or open?
• Do you feel excitement? Resistance? Peace?
3. Let the word choose you
Often the right word keeps resurfacing. It makes you pause. It feels like a breath of fresh air or a gentle challenge.
4. Commit to it
Write it somewhere visible. Create a lock screen graphic. Use it as a touchpoint during your wellness routines. Let it guide how you show up daily.
This Year, I Invite You Into This Practice
As we prepare for 2026, I want to share this with you. You deserve a year that feels aligned, nourishing, intentional, and soul-centered.
Choosing a word is a beautiful way to:
• bring clarity
• deepen your wellness journey
• reconnect with your desires
• transform how you move through the year
If you want help choosing your word—or if you'd love herbal support aligned with your goals—I’d be honored to guide you.
Book a free 15-minute consult or join my newsletter for upcoming classes and wellness resources:
You can also find a free download of Word of the Year Ideas! These are some amazing themes to honor what you want for the upcoming year.
Here’s to stepping into the new year with intention, clarity, and a whole lot of self-compassion.
What will your word be?
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