One Word to Transform Your New Year

Starting a new year often brings a desire for change, growth, and renewed energy. Many people set resolutions that quickly fade, but choosing one word to focus on throughout the year can create a powerful, lasting impact. This simple practice helps you stay centered, motivated, and aligned with your goals. Each of us looking to change our direction in the coming year, selecting a guiding word paired with a meaningful Bible verse can provide clarity and strength for the journey ahead.

Choose a verse that inspires you and compliments your One Word.

Why Choose One Word for the New Year

Choosing one word is a focused approach to personal growth. Instead of juggling multiple goals, this method encourages you to concentrate on a single theme that shapes your decisions and mindset. The book My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olson popularized this idea, showing how a single word can transform your life by providing direction and purpose.

This approach works well because it simplifies the process of renewal. When your daily routine shifts and you face new challenges, having one word to guide you can keep you grounded and intentional. It’s never been about perfection but about progress, and this is no different. Your word becomes a reminder and guide to live with purpose.

How to Choose Your Word

Selecting your word requires reflection and prayer time. Think about what you want to invite into your life this year or in what area God is prompting you to go. Ask:

• What area of my life needs more attention or growth?

• What quality do I want to develop or strengthen?

• How does God want me to change over the course of the year?

  
  

Your word should resonate deeply and inspire action. It might be a value like courage, joy, or peace. Or it could be a call to action like create, listen, or boldness.

My Word: Boldness

This year, my word is boldness. It represents stepping out of my quiet life, speaking God's Word with confidence, and embracing new opportunities without fear. Boldness is about trusting God’s plan and moving forward even when the path is unclear.

The verse that anchors this word for me is Philippians 1:20 HCSB:

"My eager expectation and hope is that I will be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all boldness, Christ will be highlly honored in my body, whether by life or by death."

This verse reminds me that boldness is not just about bravery but about living in a way that honors Christ, no matter the circumstances. It encourages me to face challenges with courage, to not shy away from speaking about Jesus, and to let my faith shine through my actions.

Practical Ways to Live Your Word

Once you have your word, the next step is to integrate it into your daily life. Here are some practical ideas:

• Write it down: Place your word where you see it every day—on your mirror, planner, or phone wallpaper.

• Set small goals: Break your word into actionable steps. For boldness, this could mean initiating conversations, trying new activities, or sharing your story.

• Reflect regularly: Take time weekly or monthly to journal how your word is influencing your choices and feelings.

• Pray or meditate: Use your word as a focus for prayer or meditation, asking for strength and guidance.

• Share with others: Tell a friend, one that Jesus puts on your heart, or join a group where you can encourage each other to live out your words.

  
  

How a Bible Verse Enhances Your Word

Pairing your word with a Bible verse adds spiritual depth and encouragement. Scripture provides wisdom and reassurance that you are not alone in your journey. It connects your personal growth to a larger story of faith and hope.

For example, my word boldness is strengthened by Philippians 1:20, which speaks about courage rooted in Christ. If your word is peace, you might choose John 14:27:

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

This connection helps you remember that your word is supported by divine promises and guidance.

Expect Transformation

Many people have found that choosing one word changes how they approach life. Your word can be a powerful tool for transformation, especially when combined with prayer and reflection. Much like with all of the prayers we send up to God, we wait in expectation for them to be answered. Sometimes they are answered in ways we never imagined. Your word can spur on transformation that you never expected and change your story in an instant or over time. Think and pray big and expect transformation... like I'm expecting will happen to me.

Tips for Staying Committed

Sticking with your word throughout the year can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

• Create reminders: Use sticky notes, alarms, or apps to keep your word visible.

• Celebrate progress: Acknowledge small wins and how your word is shaping your life.

• Adjust as needed: If your word doesn’t feel right after some time, it’s okay to revisit and choose a new one.

• Connect with others: Find accountability partners or groups who also use one-word goals.

• Keep it simple: Don’t overcomplicate your focus. Let your word guide you naturally.

  
  

Embracing New Vitality with One Word

Choosing one word and a Bible verse can bring clarity and energy to your new year. It helps you focus on what matters most and encourages you to live intentionally.

Your word becomes a companion, a source of motivation, and a reminder of God’s presence in your life. Whether your word is boldness, peace, joy, or something else, it has the power to transform your mindset and actions.

Take time now to reflect, pray, and choose your word. Let it guide you through the year ahead with purpose and grace.

Transformation is possible!

InCourage,

Dani

For more information about Coach Dani, programs or resources from InCourage Health, visit this link.