What is Your 2026 Word of the Year?
Can you believe 2025 is behind us and a new year of limitless possibilities stretches before us? I used to make New Year’s Resolutions filled with lofty goals and the best of intentions. I usually gave up on accomplishing them within two or three days. After repeating this pattern for more years than I care to admit, I finally gave up and accepted that I had become a lifetime member of the New Year Resolutions Hall of Shame.
A few years later, I read about choosing a word of the year instead of making a list of resolutions. This concept was much more manageable and attainable. Choosing one word as the guiding principle of my life for one year was less restrictive, allowing flexibility and breathing room. I decided to try the one-word approach, and I haven’t looked back.
One year, I chose the word “yes” and determined to embrace new opportunities and experiences. Another year, I chose the word “breathe” and worked on slowing down and living life more fully. During a tough year, I chose the word “courage”. I’m now 73 years old and have chosen “defiance” as my word for 2026. To the best of my ability, I defy my mind or body to decline. I defy worry about the future to rob me of the joy of the present. I defy lower priorities to overpower the things in life I deem most important.
Choosing a word of the year has helped me navigate times of grief and loss. It gave me something to focus on and work toward when I lacked the motivation to do either. My word of the year gently guided me to think past my grief and to gradually identify and embrace the new me I had become.
As you enter 2026, I encourage you to reflect on the past year. What are some recurring themes or areas that need your focus? The heartbreak of grief and loss tends to control much of our lives. Is there an area you want to regain control over?
As you think about your vision for the new year, brainstorm words that resonate deeply with your vision for the way you want to manage 2026. Patience, hope, balance, determination, strength, courage, and self-identity are all good possibilities, but it’s important that you choose a word that is meaningful and purposeful to you.
My heart is with you as you enter the new year. May you give yourself the gifts of grace and patience as you continue on your journey.