The BEST Way to Make Your Word of the Year Stick

Want to know the secret to making your Word of the Year really stick? It’s simple: integrate it into the things you’re already doing. No need to create a laundry list of new tasks or routines that just end up collecting dust. We’re not here to set ourselves up for failure; we’re here to make this word flow effortlessly into your life.

If you want, you can download this PDF and print it out if you like. Once you’ve jotted down everything that comes to mind, it’s time to find a few simple ways to tie your Word of the Year into a few of these activities. The key? Start small. Don’t try to do everything all at once. Make it easy, sustainable, and, above all, something that feels natural.

Here are a few brainstorming ideas with ways to infuse your word of the year into that already built-in activity (and just to be clear, this isn't an exhaustive list and you don't need to do all of these. This is more about inspiring you to come up with your own ideas):

HAVE TO'S:

Flossing/Brushing Teeth: Turn this routine into a moment of intention. As you brush, close your eyes for a second, visualize your word, and feel it in your body. Set an intention for the day based on your word.

Getting Dressed: Tape your word onto your mirror so every time you see yourself, you're reminded of it.

Cooking/Eating: At dinner once a week, ask everyone how they’re connecting with their Word of the Year. You can even make these simmer pots, writing your word on the bay leaves as a ritual.

Bathing: Reflect on how you want to express your word that day while you shower or bathe. Add Epsom salt to a jar with your word on it, so every time you bathe, you’re reminded of your word’s energy or set intentions based on your word.

*Cara's epsom salt jar with her Word of the Year written on it

Waking Up/Going to Bed: Before getting out of bed or as you fall asleep, take a minute to connect with your word and your body. Place a hand over your heart and belly, breathe deeply, and visualize how you want to feel by year’s end.

WANT TO'S:

Being with Friends: Share your word with someone close to you and ask them to check in with you next time you meet. Or host a Vision Board Bingo party to connect with others over your words. You can even meet for dinner every few months to reflect together.

Journaling: Create a monthly check-in with a few reflective questions. Answer them at the start or end of each month to track your progress and mindset. You can use the journal prompts from this post to inspire you!

Drinking Coffee/Tea: While sipping your morning drink, think about something small you can do today that reflects your word. For extra fun, make these DIY tea bags with your word on the tags.

Candles: Each time you light a candle, repeat your word aloud. OR you can even write and tape a different journal prompt about your word on 12 taper candles, and then use this powerful ritual for a monthly reflection.

Listening to Music: Curate a playlist that channels the vibe of your word. Pick a song that encapsulates your word and listen to it daily while moving to the rhythm.

Reading: Build a book list that aligns with the themes of your word. Read for just 10 minutes each day to deepen your connection to it.

Being Creative: Create art or a craft that centers around your word, like making your own air clay "stone" and stamp your word on it (or you can write it on a rock you found out in nature). You can even make a Vision Bowl (think Vision Board but in bowl form--see pic below!) to place around your house to inspire you on a daily basis. 

It’s best to not overcomplicate things—make it simple, meaningful, and natural. Start with 1-3 ideas and go from there! 

When you weave your Word of the Year into the everyday, it becomes a subtle yet powerful part of your life. No need for big, drastic changes. Just small, consistent actions that align with your word and keep it front and center in your thoughts and actions. Remember, simplicity is the key. You want this to feel effortless, like a gentle current that guides you through the year.