"What you focus on expands." - T. Harv Eker
Crafting your own “Word of the Year” (WOTY) is a wonderful practice that can bring focus and transformation into your life. This personalized approach to goal-setting can be a powerful tool for both personal and professional development.
Discover Your Word: Start by reflecting on your aspirations, values, and the areas of your life that you want to nurture. Consider the themes that resonate with you at this moment. Are you seeking balance, courage, resilience, or perhaps adventure? Let your inner compass guide you to a word that encapsulates your goals.
Want a guide on reaching your Word of the Year? Download my free ‘Reflections & Progression Workbook’ here!
My own word for 2026 is “Break”. Break old patterns, take a break, BREAKTHROUGH. This word came to me during an impromptu soundbath session by a recent friend.
You gain so much from having a ‘Word for the Year’!
Clarity and Focus: Provides a clear focal point for the year ahead. Your ‘Word of the Year’ becomes a guiding light to help make decisions aligned with your intentions. It’s like having a personal mantra that reminds you of your priorities.
Intentional Living: Your ‘Word of the Year’ serves as a constant reminder of your objectives. It encourages mindfulness, prompting you to make choices that align with your overarching theme. This intentionality can lead to more purposeful actions.
Personal Growth: Encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and explore new opportunities that align with your chosen theme. This can lead to transformative experiences and a more fulfilling life.
4. Celebrate Achievements: As you progress through the year, celebrate the small victories and milestones related to your chosen word. This practice reinforces positive behaviour, building a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
5. Community and Connection: Share your ‘Word of the Year’ with friends, family or your community. This creates a sense of accountability and opens up opportunities for shared goals. It’s a great conversation starter and a chance to inspire others. Share your WOTY with me on Instagram! I’d love to encourage you there!
How to Find Your Word of the Year
- Create Your Own Time: Set 30 quiet minutes. Open your journal, or I personally use a stack of un-aesthetic ‘rough’ paper.
- Review and Release: Examine your 2024. Use this Reflections 2025 & Progression 2026 Guide to help you. Note key patterns, list challenges, remember joys. Write freely.
- Connect with Your Enneagram: Consider your type’s core drivers and avoiders. Review your growth paths and gaps. BONUS: Be wary of how your Enneagram can hinder your reflection… and what to do instead.
- Listen to Your Longings: Notice what’s missing. What do you want more of? What do you want less of?
- Gather and Explore: List potential words. Aim for 10. Don’t edit. Just collect.
- Sit with Your Short List: Pick your top 3-5 words. Think about each one. Explore their potential impact.
- Test Drive Your Words: Live with each finalist for a day. Notice how it feels. Watch its influence on your choices.
- Make Your Choice: Pick the word that energises you. It should feel both exciting and slightly challenging.
This month, I asked my clients to come with their shortlisted words and we discussed how this supports them and to hone in on what will be impactful for the year. This has led to fun yet deeply provoking conversations. I’ll be happy to do this with you too!
So, you've created your 'Word of the Year'. You know you want to be a better version of yourself in 12 months... And you're ready to take the next step.
Self-reflection is extremely important to bring our learnings to our conscious mind. Then what?
Self Acceptance and then Self Mastery!
Speaking to a certified coach can help you on this journey more quickly.
What makes coaching sessions effective?
In our 1-on-1 Enneagram coaching sessions, I support you in articulating, reflecting on situations and visualising. Together, we will map out and solidify your desired outcome and come up with actionable steps for you to achieve this.
Email me at positiveleepeilin@gmail.com or whatsapp +65 8288 5457 to book for more information.
Let 2026 be your best year yet!
Rooting for you always,
Peilin
