Powerful Words (Not Resolutions) for the New Year
I love how the start of a new year brings the feeling of renewed hope. Let’s all make the best of this year no matter what it may hold, and instead of resolutions that are often only a setup for failure, try picking one meaningful word to guide you. I’m sharing these 100 powerful words for the new year.
Choosing one word is a great way to start the year off with intentionality.
I’ve never been much of a resolution follow-through kind of girl. Years ago, I would set a whole bunch of resolutions, and by the end of February, they would be out the window. Sound familiar?🤷🏻♀️
Even so, I’ve always liked the idea of starting fresh in the new year and having things to work towards.
So I was intrigued in 2016 when I came across this concept of one little word, and since then, each year, I have chosen one word to help keep me focussed. The word I chose for 2024 is perseverance.
Your chosen word is like a supportive friend who keeps you on track when you feel overwhelmed.
So take some time to think of what you want from this year. What did you learn in 2023? Is there something you really want to focus on this year? What word fits your hopes and goals for 2024?
Then, pick one word that excites you and helps inspire you in the direction you want to take this upcoming year.
Powerful Words for the New Year:
1. Abundance
2. Invest
3. Focus
4. Grace
5. Action
6. Trust
7. Purpose
8. Contentment
9. Hope
10. Peace
11. Believe
12. Faith
13. Consistent
14. Power
15. Prosperity
16. Wellness
17. Able
18. Self-Care
19. Prioritize
20. Embrace
21. Balance
22. Strength
23. Dream
24. Serenity
25. Inspire
26. Courage
27. Simplicity
28. Compassion
29. Empower
30. Confidence
31. Persistence
32. Volunteer
33. Kindness
34. Authenticity
35. Gratitude
36. Glow-Up
37. Unbothered
38. Resolve
39. Commitment
40. Intentional
41. Energy
42. Explore
43. Refresh
44. Wisdom
45. Humility
46. Enthusiasm
47. Realign
48. Fulfilled
49. Brave
50. Refocus
Half-Way Through 😊
51. Tranquility
52. Determined
53. Shine
54. Healing
55. Mindful
56. Healthy
57. Thrive
58. Adventure
59. Progress
60. Organized
61. Worthy
62. Fair
63. Imagine
64. Journey
65. Playful
66. Harmony
67. Unflappable
68. Dedication
69. Service
70. Capable
71. Growth
72. Resilience
73. Boldness
74. Creativity
75. Enjoy
76. Elevate
77. Glowing
78. Vision
79. Magic
80. Positive
81. Fun
82. Increase
83. Generous
84. Rest
85. Shift
86. Respect
87. Service
88. Zen
89. Love
90. Honesty
91. Reinvent
92. Passion
93. Self-Compassion
94. Learn
95. Joyful
96. Forgiveness
97. Gentle
98. Friendship
99. Integrity
100. Laugh
Use Powerful Words for the New Year as a Simple Guide
Choosing a word to guide you in 2024 is an easy and practical way to start a new year on the right foot.
There is so much going on globally, and I know it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not have clarity. Don’t be too hard on yourself; take it one step at a time, and always remember to give yourself the grace you show to others. We may not have control over many things, but that doesn’t have to stop us from living life to the fullest in whatever capacity that may be.
After all, it’s the simple and small things in life that bring joy and satisfaction, and nothing can take those away from us. I hope choosing one little yet powerful word will inspire you to focus on having a great year ahead, no matter what.
I would love to hear your thoughts about these powerful words for the new year. Please share them below.
I never heard about one little word until this year. So crazy! Glad you included my word humility on this list. I’m sure it’s not really popular. Lol! Love your word and can’t wait to see how you grow with it over the year.
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Yes, I’ve been doing it for years and find it useful, I love that you are doing a one little word project and humility is such a great word. Thanks, Kathrine:)
I love this! If I had to choose 3 they would be
consistent, strength and intentional
Thanks, Yadi! Those are three great choices:)
Love all of these words, Martha, including the one you chose for this year! I am with you on the resolutions. I used to make a lot of ‘resolutions’ and they always ended up with zero results, haha. So I found a better way with goal setting that works for me, and keeps me going throughout the year. I think choosing a word to guide throughout the year is so helpful in keeping us focused and motivated.
Make Life Marvelous
Thank you so much, Ashley. I agree and it does help me stay focused, hope you have a great day.
I have never picked a word for a year – but I think it is a great idea. You have a great list of words to pick from. I love your word for 2021. I am not one for new year’s resolutions either.
Thanks for stopping by, Lisa. You should try picking one this year, I find it to be a good motivator throughout the year:)
I love this list. I think for me the word that stood out is Trust. I’m going through some health issues right now, and I just have to trust that it’s where I’m meant to be right now in my life. Thanks for this list!
Shauna
http://www.lipglossandlace.net
Sorry to hear that Shauna, sending prayers your way, and I hope all will go well. I really love your perspective on trusting this is where you are meant to be. Thanks for sharing!
Abundance is my key word for 2021! I love these words and it’s a great way to incorporate them into daily positive affirmations 🙂
https://www.mariannyc.com/how-to-maintain-your-motivation/
I love your word, and that is such a great idea to incorporate these words into daily affirmations! Thanks for sharing, Mariann.
I’ve never been good with sticking to new years resolutions either. I had a word the past two years but this year I haven’t picked one. You’ve put together a great list! Love this inspiration!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Yes, resolutions never seemed to work for me! Thanks, Jill:)
I love this! Especially over making actual resolutions- I am over that practice, haha. I think my word this year is: surrender. I’m all about control and order– which serves me well sometimes!– but other times it can be too much, and going with the flow, adapting, and letting the universe bring you what you need is best. 🙂
Also- just followed you on Pinterest! 🙂
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Same here so over resolutions. Ahh, that is a great word, Ashley! Surrendering is so fitting for this difficult period we are living in, thanks for sharing and for the inspiration! That’s so sweet of you, I really appreciate it:-)
Ah yes indeed too true. Words to live by to be sure. Lets hope 2021 is a better year.
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
Thanks, Allie! Hope you are having a good start to the new year.
These are all really good words! I absolutely love ‘unflappable’. It is so fun to say and makes you feel strong and powerful!
I know, right?! I’m so glad you noticed that one, Laura as it’s not very common. A cute little story about that word, I once worked with an amazing lawyer and everyone would say she’s “unflappable” because she was petite but brave and powerful so I loved it since then:)