Word of the Year: A Midlife Alternative to New Year’s Resolutions

Every January, the internet fills with bold declarations—new goals, new bodies, new lives. And while I admire the optimism, I’ve learned that at this stage of life, I don’t need a total reinvention.

What I need is intention.

That’s why, instead of making resolutions I’m likely to abandon by February, I choose a Word of the Year—a single word that acts as a compass. Something I can return to when life gets noisy, busy, or uncertain.

Not a rule.
Not a demand.
Just a gentle guide.

Why a Word of the Year Works—Especially in Midlife

Midlife has taught me that life doesn’t move in straight lines. We’re balancing careers, relationships, health, aging parents, grown children, and our own evolving identities.

A word allows space for all of that.

It doesn’t box you in.
“1101” data-end=”1104″ />>It meets you where you are.

A Word of the Year becomes something you can ask yourself:

• Does this align with my word?

• Is this moving me closer—or pulling me away—from how I want to feel?

How I Choose My Word

I don’t overthink it. I sit quietly and ask myself one simple question:

What do I want more of this year?

Not what I should wish to.
Not what looks impressive.
But what my life is quietly asking for.

Sometimes the word comes immediately. Sometimes it takes a few days. But when it arrives, I feel it in my body before my mind.

What a Word Can Look Like

There’s no “right” word. Some years it’s been:

• Ease

• Presence

• Strength

• Curiosity

• Enough

This year, my word is Intentional.

To me, it means:

• Saying yes to what expands me

• Saying no without guilt

• Trusting that I don’t need to rush what’s still unfolding

I’m not trying to master it. I’m simply allowing it to shape my choices—how I work, how I rest, how I show up for myself and others.

How I Use My Word Throughout the Year

I return to it often:

• When I’m deciding how to spend my time

• When I feel pressure to do more

• When comparison creeps in

• When I forget that I’m allowed to change my mind

Some days I live it beautifully.
Some days I forget it entirely.

Both are part of the practice.

An Invitation for You

If you’re feeling tired of resolutions…
Or you’re craving clarity without pressure…
If you want this year to feel intentional, not overwhelming…

I invite you to choose a word.

Write it somewhere visible. Let it evolve with you. Let it be a reminder—not of who you’re trying to become, but of who you already are.

✨ What’s your Word of the Year? I’d love to know.

XXOOXX