• Lake Life
    • Lake Life 101
    • Lake-Inspired Decor
  • Cooking
    • Tricks and Tips
    • Drinks
    • Breakfast
    • Appetizers
    • Soups and Salads
    • Sandwiches
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Snacks
    • Sauces & Dressings
  • Entertaining
    • Helpful Party Tips
    • Party Themes
    • Party Games
    • Gift Ideas
  • Organizing
    • Organize Your Home
    • Organize Your Family
    • Organize Yourself
  • Holidays
    • Valentine’s Day
    • St. Patrick’s Day
    • Easter
    • Cinco de Mayo
    • Mother’s Day
    • Father’s Day
    • Fourth of July/Summertime
    • All Things School
    • All Things Sports
    • Halloween
    • Fall/Thanksgiving
    • Hanukkah
    • Christmas
  • And more
    • My Thoughts
    • Mom Life
    • Fitness
    • Travel
    • Fashion

Lake Life State of Mind

Create a life anchored in family & fun

  • Home
  • Start Here ⚓
    • About the Blog
    • Subscribe Today
  • Blog
  • Free Library
  • Podcast
  • Contact
  • Work With Me
  • “The Legal Stuff”

Choosing a Word of the Year

12/28/20 | My Thoughts

73shares
  • 15

Instead of a New Years Resolution, I have come to love to Choose a Word of the Year instead. Come see how I go through the process of choosing a word of the year and how I apply it to all areas of my life. I’ve found this method to be so much more motivating and easier to stick to. 

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

*The printables for this post were updated on September 11, 2020, and will work for any year moving forward. 

I’m late to the party, again! It’s two days until the new year arrives and I am just now thinking about my goals for next year. I’m typically on the ball with this kind of stuff but this year I’m overwhelmed with ALL THE THINGS. 

Because New Year’s Eve is so close, I thought it would be fun to actually sit down and complete the process of “Choosing a Word of the Year” as a family before the ball drops. That’s the extent of my New Year’s Ever plans thus far. Have you even made plans for New Year’s Eve yet?

I will definitely be taking the easy way out this year. I’m grateful for my blogging friends, Jaclyn and Keri, who put together some amazing activities that I can easily incorporate into my own festivities. With Jaclyn’s 25+ Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Ideas to Do at Home and Keri’s New Year’s Eve Family Activities, I think I can quickly pull things together for an awesome evening!

I love Jaclyn’s cute countdown baskets.

New Year's Eve Countdown Baskets

And I’m also obsessed with Keri’s countdown bags.

New Year's Eve Countdown Bags

Choosing a word of the year is something that has been popular online for quite some time now. Don’t quote me on this, but I believe the first person to introduce this concept online was Ali Edwards at One Little World all the way back in 2006. She started a tradition every January of choosing one single word to focus and reflect on each day, all year long. She shared this concept, and more than 10 years later it’s blown up all over the internet.  

When I say blown up, that’s not an exaggeration. I found tons of resources on Pinterest that really helped me hone in on what I wanted my word to be for 2018. In particular, I found Mountain Modern Life’s article useful for actually deciding on my word and then used Sublime Reflection’s bullet journal idea to create my printable for taking my word to the next level.

If you get a chance, I highly recommend visiting their sites for more ideas. You won’t be disappointed.

How do I go about choosing my word of the year for 2020?

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

I followed the process I read on Mountain Modern Life when trying to figure out my word.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step One: Start with reflecting on the previous year. On a sheet of paper, jot down the answers to the following questions. Write whatever comes to mind.

  • What can I use more of in my life?
  • What can I use less of in my life?
  • What characteristics or qualities would I like to have?
  • At the end of the day, I feel (fill in the blank).
  • How do I want to feel at the end of the day?

Step Two: Visualize

Visualize yourself in a happy, content state. What would it take to get you there? What would you need to do in order to feel content at the end of the day? Think about this and jot it down.

Step Three: Make A List of Words 

I found this to be really fun! I set a timer for 5 minutes and started jotting down all the words that came to mind when I thought about how I want to feel in the upcoming year. You can find a great list of words from Mountain Modern Life if you get stuck.

Step Four: Refine

Now is the time to look over your list and narrow it down to three words. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to narrow down my words but I really had a few that just “spoke” to me. Try not to pick a word because you think you should pick it. You’ll be less likely to stick with it for the long haul if you force yourself into it.

Step Five: Are you “interested” or “committed” to your word?

This was my “wow” moment when reading through Mountain Modern Life’s post. The difference between being interested in something and committed is bigger than you might think.

If you are interested in something you might not give it 100% and find yourself making excuses to not accomplish your goal. More than likely it’s something you are trying to force on yourself that’s really not resonating with you.

When you are committed to something you will give it all you’ve got and not stop until you’ve achieved your goal.

You want to make sure that the word you choose is one you are COMMITTED to! Once you know you’re committed to it, that’s your word of the year.

Now that you chose your word of the year, what happens next?

Choosing a word of the year for 2018Now is the time to really dissect the word and see how you can include it in all areas of your life. The perfect way to do this is with the printable below that I created. I made this printable based on the bullet journal idea I found from Sublime Reflection. Bullet journaling is extremely popular right now. I’d love to start doing it sometime. I’ll try it when I have some spare time…which might be in 2028.

 

 

Begin filling out the printable right in the center by filling in the blank, “How can I _____ in the new year?” How can I commit in the upcoming year? How can I have peace in the upcoming year? How can I be grateful in the upcoming year? (***Updated these printables to say “new year” instead of showing a specific year)

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

Once you’ve added your word, start thinking about how you can introduce it into all areas of your life including relationships, family, friends, and even finances. This part really made me think hard and long and the more I thought about it the more I became COMMITTED to my goal.

I made two versions of the printable so that anyone can use it. One printable is a plain Jane sheet that anyone can use, even a boy! The second one is completely girlie. I decided to use the girlie one for my word of the year. I pulled out all my colored pens and went to town.

And here it is…My Masterpiece! All my goals for the year. Feeling a little vulnerable here, not going to lie. 

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

As you can see, my word of the year is INTENTIONAL. I’m determined to be more intentional with everything I do. I want to spend time on what matters and less on what doesn’t. Are you getting excited about choosing a word of the year? It’s time to get started. When you’re done, comment with your word below.

Want to remember this? Post this blog “Choosing Your Word of the Year” to your favorite Pinterest board!

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

Choosing a Word of the Year 2020

More from my site

  • Strawberry BruschettaStrawberry Bruschetta
  • How to Host the Perfect Pinterest Party: Halloween EditionHow to Host the Perfect Pinterest Party: Halloween Edition
  • Tex Mex LasagnaTex Mex Lasagna
  • Bonfires! A fun way to spend time with your teenager and their friends.Bonfires! A fun way to spend time with your teenager and their friends.
  • Foolproof Brown RiceFoolproof Brown Rice
  • Banana Pudding TrifleBanana Pudding Trifle

Comments | 5 comments

« Holiday Cranberry Margarita Recipe
Raspberry Champagne Cocktail »

Comments

  1. Rebecca says

    January 10, 2018 at 9:27 pm

    Listen

    Reply
    • lakelifestateofmind@gmail.com says

      January 10, 2018 at 10:38 pm

      Wonderful choice! I know how hard it can be to take a step back and truly listen without wanting to intervene.

      Reply
  2. Sharlene Habermeyer says

    January 5, 2019 at 8:00 pm

    Oh my gosh, Tiffany! This is an amazing blogpost! I’ve never heard about choosing a word for the New Year–but I love it!! As I was reading the process you recommend–there were dozens of words that came to mind (all self-improvement). And now I just have to “refine” as per your suggestion. This is excellent–and a different way to approach the New Year. Thanks so much! Amazing! I’m going to share this on my FB pages!

    Reply
    • lakelifestateofmind@gmail.com says

      January 5, 2019 at 8:38 pm

      Thank you so much for sharing this, Sharlene. I love the concept of picking a Word of the Year and it’s so much fun. Keep me posted on the word you choose!

      Reply
  3. Sharlene Habermeyer says

    January 5, 2020 at 11:30 pm

    I love this post, Tiffany! I’ve been deeply thinking about this since you posted something on Instagram and I think the word I need to focus on is “Happy.” Yes, it seems pretty simple, but lately, happiness has been eluding me. I’m disciplined and know how to work hard, but I need to start finding happiness in the journey of life–no matter how difficult it can be at times. Thank you again for the amazing updates, ideas and helps for 2020!

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

I'm a wife, mom of a teenager, coffee addict, sunshine obsessed Florida girl, and a lover of lake life. On this lifestyle blog, I share all things fun and creative! You’ll find simple recipes, organizing and entertaining tips, holiday inspiration, and of course, a big dose of lake life living. It’s my mission to help you create a life anchored in family and fun. ⚓️

Read More...

Search The Site

Stay Connected!

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

lakelifestateofmind

547 1,865

Lake Life State of Mind

Tiffany | Lake Life+Style Blog

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 13

Open
Zach’s 18 today and I think we’re in shock! Happy Birthday to the boy who stole our hearts 18 years ago and still continues to do so each and every day. Your warm heart, compassion, and love for your family are just a few of the many things we love about the person you are. Keep dreaming big and never let up on your goals and ambitions. You’re destined for greatness, Zach. We’re so proud to call you our son! Love Always, Mom and Dad 💓
@zach_hernandez413 
#happy18thbirthday #happy18th #happy18 #happybirthday #happybirthdayson #thisis18 #happiestbirthday #happiestofbirthdays #proudparents #proudmother #proudfather #proudofyou #adulthood_begins #loveyouson

Zach’s 18 today and I think we’re in shock! Happy Birthday to the boy who stole our hearts 18 years ago and still continues to do so each and every day. Your warm heart, compassion, and love for your family are just a few of the many things we love about the person you are. Keep dreaming big and never let up on your goals and ambitions. You’re destined for greatness, Zach. We’re so proud to call you our son! Love Always, Mom and Dad 💓
@zach_hernandez413
#happy18thbirthday #happy18th #happy18 #happybirthday #happybirthdayson #thisis18 #happiestbirthday #happiestofbirthdays #proudparents #proudmother #proudfather #proudofyou #adulthood_begins #loveyouson
...

140 116

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 9

Open
Today’s my 39th birthday and one of my requests was to get a family photo by the lake that met my standards with no complaining from the peanut gallery! I am happy to report my wish was granted but not without some funny business taking place in the process. Check out my stories for the “behind the scenes” of our little photo shoot. All I can say is I love these guys. Time to head out to dinner! Melting Pot anyone?!💓💓💓
.
#happybirthday #happybirthdaytome #happybirthdaytoyou #thisis39 #familytime #familyiseverything #familyfirst❤️ #familyislove #familyisforever #lakelife #lakelifestyle #lakelifestateofmind #lakefamily #happiestofbirthdays

Today’s my 39th birthday and one of my requests was to get a family photo by the lake that met my standards with no complaining from the peanut gallery! I am happy to report my wish was granted but not without some funny business taking place in the process. Check out my stories for the “behind the scenes” of our little photo shoot. All I can say is I love these guys. Time to head out to dinner! Melting Pot anyone?!💓💓💓
.
#happybirthday #happybirthdaytome #happybirthdaytoyou #thisis39 #familytime #familyiseverything #familyfirst❤️ #familyislove #familyisforever #lakelife #lakelifestyle #lakelifestateofmind #lakefamily #happiestofbirthdays
...

190 150

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 5

Open
Love this new sign we put up in the yard yesterday! I saw this definition for “home” online and it really spoke to me: “A home is any place where you are comfortable, and feel as if you can be yourself. A home is a place where you just feed off of positive energy and feel free. It does not matter whether your home is outside in nature or in a house, as long as your heart is there.” 🏡 
Besides my actual house that I live in, I found myself reflecting on other places I’ve experienced that would also constitute as home for me per this definition. Some of these places are my mom’s house, my old classrooms during my teaching days, and my tiny space on the internet that I share with you all. Besides the house you live in, where’s somewhere else you feel right at HOME at? I’d love to know!
#home #homelover #houseandhome #houseahome #happyhome #happyhomelife #happylife❤️ #happylifestyle #happyliving #stayawhile #positivespace #lakelifestateofmind

Love this new sign we put up in the yard yesterday! I saw this definition for “home” online and it really spoke to me: “A home is any place where you are comfortable, and feel as if you can be yourself. A home is a place where you just feed off of positive energy and feel free. It does not matter whether your home is outside in nature or in a house, as long as your heart is there.” 🏡
Besides my actual house that I live in, I found myself reflecting on other places I’ve experienced that would also constitute as home for me per this definition. Some of these places are my mom’s house, my old classrooms during my teaching days, and my tiny space on the internet that I share with you all. Besides the house you live in, where’s somewhere else you feel right at HOME at? I’d love to know!
#home #homelover #houseandhome #houseahome #happyhome #happyhomelife #happylife❤️ #happylifestyle #happyliving #stayawhile #positivespace #lakelifestateofmind
...

105 60

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 4

Open
Happy Easter from our family to yours! Like I say every year, you’re never too old to get a visit from the Easter Bunny🐰 I kind of think it’s pretty adorable that 18 Easters later, Zach is still getting Superhero goodies with his basket...and he is just as excited about getting them as his 5 year old little self was.❤️💙❤️💙
.
Hope everyone has a wonderful day!💓
#nevertooold #keepthemlittle #easter #easterbasket #easterdecor #easter2021 #easter2021🐣🐇 #easterbunny #eastersunday #easterday #happyeaster #happyeaster🐰 #happyeaster🐣 #lakelifestateofmind

Happy Easter from our family to yours! Like I say every year, you’re never too old to get a visit from the Easter Bunny🐰 I kind of think it’s pretty adorable that 18 Easters later, Zach is still getting Superhero goodies with his basket...and he is just as excited about getting them as his 5 year old little self was.❤️💙❤️💙
.
Hope everyone has a wonderful day!💓
#nevertooold #keepthemlittle #easter #easterbasket #easterdecor #easter2021 #easter2021🐣🐇 #easterbunny #eastersunday #easterday #happyeaster #happyeaster🐰 #happyeaster🐣 #lakelifestateofmind
...

145 87

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 3

Open
Wishing everyone a beautiful weekend from the lake! Hope you have something amazing planned.⚓️ 
.
#views #viewsfordays #viewsonviews #views😍 #viewslikethese #viewsaddict #lakeview #lakeviews #lakelife #lakelifeisthebestlife #lakelifelove #lakelifelivin #lakelifeliving #sunset #sunsetvibes #sunsetlovers #sunsetphotography #sunsets #sunsetlove #sunsets_captures #sunsetlover #sunsetgram #sunsethunter #sunsetmadness #sunsetporn #sunsetsky #sunsetsky #sunsetshots #lakelifestateofmind

Wishing everyone a beautiful weekend from the lake! Hope you have something amazing planned.⚓️
.
#views #viewsfordays #viewsonviews #views😍 #viewslikethese #viewsaddict #lakeview #lakeviews #lakelife #lakelifeisthebestlife #lakelifelove #lakelifelivin #lakelifeliving #sunset #sunsetvibes #sunsetlovers #sunsetphotography #sunsets #sunsetlove #sunsets_captures #sunsetlover #sunsetgram #sunsethunter #sunsetmadness #sunsetporn #sunsetsky #sunsetsky #sunsetshots #lakelifestateofmind
...

140 98

lakelifestateofmind

View

Apr 2

Open
Guess who’s going to be two weeks old tomorrow?!!! Our precious little Forge is growing so quickly. He officially opened his eyes this week and is looking cuter than ever. I’ve been sharing daily pictures of him in my stories but this one was too cute not to share in my feed, don’t you think?!💙💙💙
.
Photo credit @karinrromero 
#puppylove #puppylife #puppygram #puppydog #boxersofinstagram #boxerpuppy #boxerpuppies #boxerdog #boxerlove #boxersarethebest #preciousmoments #perfection #sweetpuppy #sweetpuppyface #sweetpup #sweetpuppy #losingapet #lakelifestateofmind

Guess who’s going to be two weeks old tomorrow?!!! Our precious little Forge is growing so quickly. He officially opened his eyes this week and is looking cuter than ever. I’ve been sharing daily pictures of him in my stories but this one was too cute not to share in my feed, don’t you think?!💙💙💙
.
Photo credit @karinrromero
#puppylove #puppylife #puppygram #puppydog #boxersofinstagram #boxerpuppy #boxerpuppies #boxerdog #boxerlove #boxersarethebest #preciousmoments #perfection #sweetpuppy #sweetpuppyface #sweetpup #sweetpuppy #losingapet #lakelifestateofmind
...

223 106
Load More... Follow Me Instagram

Lake Life State of Mind Blog

Lake Life State of Mind Blog

Lake Life State of Mind Blog

The Latest and The Greatest

Easy Easter Bunny Mason Jars

Easy Easter Bunny Mason Jars

posted in Easter, Holidays

Stitch Fix Box Review for January 2021

Stitch Fix Box Review for January 2021

posted in And more, Fashion

Connect with me

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Categories

Archives

Copyright© 2021·Tasteful Themeby Lake Life State of Mind