How to choose a word of the year that feels authentic

scrabble tiles, how to choose a word of the year blog, kerry hanna life coaching for women

My friend recently brought up one of my favourite personal rituals: choosing an inspiring word.

scrabble tiles, how to choose a word of the year blog, kerry hanna life coaching for womenIt’s something I’ve done for a long time — choosing one word to guide me.

To keep me aligned with my highest values.

You see, I don’t do resolutions anymore.

When I used to, I realized how futile they were.

And how self-punishing.

I’d make big promises: go to the gym, eat less chocolate, save more money.

And before long, I wasn’t doing any of it.

Then I’d feel awful.

And beat myself up for not having enough discipline.

So when I discovered the idea of choosing a single guiding word, it made perfect sense.

What better way to honour yourself and your own needs, than to choose an inspiring word?

One that resonates with your heart and soul.

woman if field holding up balloons, how to choose a word of the year blog, kerry hanna life coach

And gently guides you toward creating more of what you want in life.

One year I chose the word freedom.

I’d been feeling trapped by all my obligations…

Work, parenting, caring for others.

And my word led me to new opportunities and adventures.

I’d never felt so free.

Another time, I chose connection.

I’d been craving more meaningful relationships and wanted to open my heart again.

That one small word helped me reach out, deepen friendships, and feel more grounded in my community.

Choosing a word like this helps me stay focused on what really matters.

On how I want to live.

On how I want to feel.

And ultimately, it makes me happier.

During that conversation with my friend, my new word came to me in a flash of insight.

(Thanks, soul — I’m listening.)

My inspiring word of the year is ease.

coffee mug with the word of the year "ease" on it, kerry hanna coaching for women

As a highly sensitive person (HSP) I can get overwhelmed when I’m juggling too much.

Less is often more for me.

I don’t like things to be difficult, over-complicated, or draining.

Especially in my business — I want it to feel light, smooth, and aligned.

Created with ease.

And I know I can. Because I’ve done it before.

It’s how I live my life:

Keeping what works. Letting go of what doesn’t.

So, yes please. More ease.

Now it’s your turn!

What inspiring word is calling to you?

crystal ball on the beach with the sun behind it, kerry hanna life coaching word of the year blogIf you haven’t chosen one yet, take a moment to reflect.

Make sure it doesn’t come from a place of should — someone else’s voice out there — but from a deep desire within you.

A word that makes you feel good in your body when you say it.

One you can return to again and again.

A gentle compass that guides you toward choices that honour your highest values

And your truest self.

Here’s how to discover your own word:

1. Find a quiet space.

Go for a walk outdoors, sit by the window with a cup of tea, or take a warm bath — anywhere you can be with yourself, uninterrupted.

2. Get grounded.

Close your eyes, place a hand on your heart, and take a few deep breaths to settle into your body.

3. Ask and listen.

Gently ask yourself: What am I craving? What am I longing for deep down? What do I want more of in my life? Then wait and listen. Notice what word arises — the one that makes you pause and think, yes, that’s it.

4. Record and review.

Write it down somewhere visible — in a journal, on a sticky note, or your phone — so you can return to it whenever you need a reminder to stay true to yourself.

If a word doesn’t come right away, that’s okay. Trust that it will.

Sometimes our intuition needs space to whisper instead of shout.

If you’d like a little help connecting with your word of the year…

You can listen to my Word of the Year Guided Meditation.

It’s a short 9-minute practice designed to help you quiet the noise, connect with your inner voice, and let your word find you.

So you can live your most authentic, joy-filled life.

Kerry xo

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