How a Word of the Year Can Guide Your Goals and Strengthen Your Faith
As the new year begins, many of us feel the pressure to set big goals or make groundbreaking resolutions. But what if you could embrace a practice that simplifies your focus, grounds you, and nurtures your mental health all year long? That’s where the idea of choosing a Word of the Year comes in, and it can be such a powerful practice!
For me, this is more than just a self-reflective exercise. I lean on God to place a word in my heart each year. Through prayer and reflection, He reveals a word that I may not have expected, but always need.
Over the past four years, God has placed these words on my heart:
• Boundaries: A season of learning to protect my time, energy, and relationships.
• Focus: A reminder to set my eyes on what matters most and God’s perfect plan for my life.
• Joy: Finding joy even in the little moments and knowing that joy is something we get from God every single day!
• Peace: Seeking calm and trust amidst life’s uncertainties.
What I’ve learned is that sometimes God gives us a word that feels like a challenge. Maybe you were hoping for a word like strength or success, but you get rest or patience instead. It can be hard to lean into something that feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable, but I believe God uses these words to grow us, refine us, and draw us closer to Him.
Why It Matters for Mental Health
Life can feel overwhelming, pulling us in a hundred different directions. Having a word to return to—a simple but powerful focus—helps us center our thoughts and align our hearts with what truly matters.
From a mental health perspective, choosing a word of the year:
• Increases Intentionality: Instead of feeling scattered, you live with purpose and clarity which reduces overwhelm and anxiety.
• Encourages Self-Compassion: A word isn’t a rigid goal. It’s a gentle guide to help you move forward.
• Improves Self-Awareness: You begin to notice patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in different areas of life.
• Promotes Personal Growth: Choosing a word invites you to reflect on areas of your life that may need more attention.
• Builds Trust in God’s Plan: When the word feels hard, it’s an opportunity to lean on Him for strength, guidance, and perspective.
• Fosters Support: When others know your word of the year, they can rally around you and pray for you intentionally each step of the way.
How We Practice This at Know Your Worth Counseling and Wellness
At Know Your Worth, this practice is close to our hearts. Every year, each therapist and staff member chooses a Word of the Year, seeking God’s guidance through prayer and reflection. Once we’ve found our word, we wear it as a bracelet throughout the year to keep it close and pray over it for ourselves and each other. It serves as a daily reminder of what God is speaking to us.
How to Choose Your Word
I love using “WORD” as an acronym to guide the process of choosing a Word of the Year! Here’s a breakdown to help guide you:
W – Write it Down
Start by reflecting and journaling about your life, your goals, and where you feel God is guiding you. Ask yourself: What do I need most this year? Writing it down helps clarify your thoughts and bring themes to light.
O – Open Your Heart
Open your heart to God’s voice. Pray and reflect on His guidance for your year. Be willing to receive a word that may feel challenging, unexpected, or exactly what you need to grow.
R – Reflect and Refine
Reflect on what keeps coming up—whether in prayer, scripture, or conversations. Narrow your options and refine your focus. Your word should resonate deeply, offering direction and encouragement.
D – Declare It
Once you’ve chosen your word, declare it! Share it with someone you trust, write it where you’ll see it often, and use it as a guide for your year.
How Our Counselors Can Help
Choosing your word is just the beginning. Sometimes, we need guidance in living it out, in taking the next steps toward what God is calling us to. At Know Your Worth Counseling and Wellness, our counselors are here to help you identify your goals, remove barriers, and walk with you as you pursue healing, balance, and growth. Whether your word is peace, brave, heal, or something entirely different, we can provide the tools and support you need to make it a reality in your life. Visit our counselors page to find a good fit for your needs!
Putting Your Word Into Practice
Once you’ve chosen your word, write it down. Pray over it. Keep it visible—on a sticky note, a journal, a bracelet, or even as your phone background. Let it guide your decisions, thoughts, and daily actions.
When you feel challenged, remember: God placed this word in your heart for a reason. Lean into it, trust Him, and watch how He works through you.
If you’re looking for support as you navigate this season, we would love to partner with you. At Know Your Worth, we’re here to help you live with intention, honor the word God has placed on your heart, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life—one step at a time.
