Family Dinner Topic: What Word Would You Choose to Guide You in the New Year?

One-word intentions have grown in popularity in recent years. Unlike traditional New Years’ resolutions, one-word intentions are simple and straightforward. For example, if you strive to find more balance between work and family, you might choose the word “balance” as your one-word intention. 

So last night, over dinner, my family talked about what word might guide each of us in the year ahead. There are no rules for selecting a word. In fact, the only instruction is to choose a word that represents something you would like to cultivate more of in your life. If one word feels too confining, select more than one. 

Ideally, this word inspires or guides you as you navigate the road ahead. You may choose to write your word down and put it someplace you see often. It may grow into a mantra, a reminder, or even a promise as you navigate the year ahead.

Here are some questions to help choose your word:

1. What do I want to feel more of in my daily life?
2. What do I want to be more of to my family, friends, and co-workers?
3. What is it that I need to achieve my goals?
4. What do I see in others that I would like to be too?
5. What do I need to be my most authentic self?

It also helps to review possible words and notice which resonate most with you. Reviewing the list below will likely inspire new words too. 

Possible One-Word Intentions:

After some introspection and discussion, each of my family members thought about a word that resonated with them. On New Year’s Day, we’ll tuck them into our intention jar. Who knows what the coming year will bring, but starting with intention feels grounding and inspiring to me. 

What would you like to cultivate more in your life for next year? What would you like to leave behind? Wishing you and your family love and peace in the year ahead.

About Jessica Speer: 

Jessica Speer is the award-winning author of books for kids and teens, including The Phone Book – Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your Hand, BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships and Middle School – Safety Goggles Advised. Blending social science, stories, and activities, her writing unpacks tricky stuff that surfaces during childhood and adolescence. She has a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and a knack for writing about complex topics in ways that connect with kids and teens. Jessica regularly contributes to media outlets on content related to kids, parenting, friendship, and social-emotional learning. For more information, visit www.JessicaSpeer.com