Embrace the Power of Your Word of the Year

Hey wonderful souls! Have you made any New Year resolutions? No? Me neither. It was a thing I did in years gone by, but they always fell to the side of life. When I think back to the kinds of resolutions I have made in the past they're very goal orientated. "Loose weight" mostly! Or "have an adventure" - without really specifying how or why. It's no wonder I fell out of love with the process, and found myself more attracted to choosing a word for the year.

As we embark upon another journey around the sun, let's pause for a moment to reflect on the magical potential that lies within us. The start of a new year isn't just about just flipping the calendar; it's about embracing the opportunity to infuse our lives with intention, purpose, and positivity. And what better way to do so than by adopting a "Word of the Year" – a single, guiding word that will serve as a beacon of light throughout the year's adventures.

Imagine, if you will, having a word that encapsulates your aspirations, nudges you toward all your goals, and wraps you in a cocoon of encouragement when challenges arise. It's your very own North Star, leading you towards the life you wish to create.

You may have sat and pondered, and chosen a very fitting word already. Or you may have let the universe guide you and purchased or been gifted one of our  "chosen for you" word stars. Either way, now's the time to think about how to embrace your word and let it help you.

So, how can you infuse this word into your daily existence, allowing it to shape and enrich your life?

1. Sit with your word and hold it.

Better still carry it with you for a few days or weeks. The Word Stars are small enough to pop into a pocket, a purse, or a glasses case each morning. We like to think that being physically close to your word star will charge it up with your energy, especially at the beginning of this journey when you have boundless enthusiasm! Then, when you need it, you can hold your star again and reconnect with the energy of those moments.

2. Make it obvious.

From the moment you wake allow your word be an intrinsic part of your daily thought process. Hang your star somewhere obvious where you'll see it every day. On the bathroom mirror maybe, or near the kettle. Take a photo of it and make it your phone lock screen. Draw it out in the front of your journal (I mean, we do make name in star journals that could be adapted for this purpose - no pressure but here they are!) As you face the day's tasks, challenges, and triumphs, allow your word to gently remind you of your purpose and the energy you wish to channel. Whether it's Courage, Abundance, Adventure, or Balance, let your word echo in your mind like a mantra, steering your thoughts in a positive direction. Wherever you place it, every time your eyes catch your word, it's like a mini pep talk from your past self, cheering you on.

3. Look at what didn't work for you last year.

If your word is "simplicity" for example, what felt overly complicated for you last year or was unnecessarily hard work? If your word is "shine" what areas of your life need a little extra polish on them, or have been hiding in the dark and need to come out and glow, or how can you shine on others? Write down all the key areas in your life and the most important people that matter to you and reflect on how your word could apply to each. This is a pen and paper exercise really - you'll be amazed how much flows when you're writing it down. 

Reflect on your:

• Relationships
• Work
• Physical Health
• Wellness and Mental Health
• Lifestyle and Hobbies
• Life Milestones

4. Infuse Your Actions with Purpose:

Every action you take, no matter how small, can be imbued with the essence of your word. If your word is "Kindness," perform small acts of kindness daily – holding the door for a stranger, offering a compliment, or lending a helping hand. If your word is "Grow," dedicate time to learning and self-improvement. It might be time to get started on that duolingo app!

5. Embrace it all.

As the days turn into weeks and the weeks into months, take moments to celebrate your progress. Reflect on how your word has influenced your decisions, perspectives, and experiences. Recognize the positive changes it has brought into your life. These celebratory moments will fuel your enthusiasm to continue your journey. Although we're all only human. You might hit a roadblock or have a "meh" day/week. That's okay! Your word isn't about perfection; it's about progress. So, be kind to yourself. Your word is NOT a measure or a stick to beat yourself with and will not judge you! And neither should you. 

Above all, have fun with it, embrace what works and let go with grace whatever doesn't work 🌟