Finding My Word of the Year: As a Christian Woman in Midlife

At the end of every year, I often find myself reflecting on the past year—the ups and downs, the lessons learned, and the moments of joy. This time of year is filled with excitement and new possibilities. I love the feeling of a new week, a new month, but specially a New Year! One of the most impactful practices I’ve adopted over the years is choosing a "Word of the Year." This intentional word serves as a guiding light for my spiritual walk and personal growth throughout the year.

In this post, I’m excited to share my process of selecting a word that resonates with my faith and plans I'm bringing before the Lord. My hope is to inspire you to embark on your own spiritual walk with God.

The Importance of Intentionality

Choosing a word for the year is much more than just a trendy idea; it's a significant way to set intentions. Life in midlife can get busy, as we manage numerous responsibilities like work, family, and caregiving. When I choose a word, I create a simple yet useful tool to keep my spiritual beliefs and goals aligned.

For example, research shows that people who set specific goals are 10 times more likely to achieve them. Choosing a word gives me clear focus, reminding me to seek God and invite His presence into every part of my life.

Reflecting on My Spiritual Journey

Before I select my word, I take time to reflect on my walk with the Lord over the past year. This usually involves being in God's Word and prayer, asking God to reveal areas where I can learn and grow.

I find journaling during this time is crucial. By capturing my thoughts, feelings and goals, I gain insight into where I'm at spiritually, mentally and emotionally.

2 years ago (2024), my word was “habit.” I realized that there were areas in my life that weren't going anywhere because I lacked the ability to create habits. I started reading the book "Atomic Habits" by James clear, in it I read this phrase that totally changed the way I build new habits, "All big things, come from small things". This taught me that the seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision. But as that decision is repeated, a habit sprouts and grows stronger. Roots entrench themselves and branches grow.

As I enter this new year, my goal is to continue to build new habits that help me grow as a woman of God, wife, mom and grandma.

Seeking God’s Guidance

Once I've reflected on my journey, the next step is to seek God's guidance on what word He might want for me. Prayer is essential during this stage.

I often write specific prayers asking for clarity and understanding. It's about being open to His guidance. Occasionally, I encounter verses that resonate deeply with me, I write those down in my journal and continue to be in prayer and God's Word.

Brainstorming Potential Words

Once I feel God's leading, I brainstorm a list of potential words that capture what I want to focus on.

This part of the process is liberating! I write down everything without judgment.

When brainstorming, I reflect on the meanings of words I’m considering: these are some examples.

• Grace: Embracing God's unearned favor and extending that same grace to others.

• Trust: Leaning on God's plan even when things feel uncertain.

• Renew: Seeking rejuvenation in my spirit and mind through God's words and presence.

• Abide: Committing to staying connected to Jesus and drawing strength from Him.

  
  

Choosing the Final Word

As I sift through my list, many times it takes weeks before I know what the word is going to be, other times its very clear and I keep getting confirmation in many ways. I ask God to confirm my choice. I consider how it aligns with what I have already been getting through prayer and His Word.

Last year (2025), I felt led to choose the word “rebuilding.” It speaks to a season in my life I honestly never thought would come. After years of living with seizures and not living a "normal" life, I find myself walking in my healing, rebuilding a new life in every way possible.

Living Out My Word

Now that I’ve chosen my word (or should I say, now that the word has chosen me), I embrace it wholeheartedly. I revisit my word throughout the year—writing it in my journal and on the large chalkboard in my diningroom (visual reminders), and I integrate it into all the areas of my life.

I also seek opportunities to embody this word. For instance, with "rebuilding," I am examining all aspects of my life that have been paused due to the past 14 years of living with seizures, and I aim to rebuild them, making them stronger, better, and renewed.

Embracing New Possibilities

Choosing a word for the year has become a meaningful tradition in my life, guiding my spiritual growth as a Christian woman. This year, as I continue to seek God for my word, I reflect on how He showed up BIG in my life last year and how He "Rebuild" my life and faith.

As you reflect on your own spiritual journey, consider adopting a word that resonates with your heart and aligns with your goals. It doesn't matter that we are already in January, February or March, this is something you can do at anytime. There are times I don't get my word until my birthday in June!

Life offers numerous wonderful chances for renewal. As we enter the new year, let's pursue God together, focusing on one word at a time.