The Real Chic Life

As the new year begins, most of us feel a surge of motivation to set goals and resolutions. Some of us even create vision boards to visually map out how we hope our year will be. I’ve been doing both for as long as I can remember, but selecting a single word to guide my year is something I always look forward to. 

My word serves as a personal mantra- helping me stay aligned with my goals and values throughout the year. Sometimes, I’m very strategic about my word selection, trying on different words to see if they fit. And other times a word plops onto my lap when I least expect it. I’m going to be very transparent here and say that the word I chose initially was a mix of both. It came to me in a flurry. But as I sat with it over the last two months things evolved for me externally (and internally), and it no longer seemed to fit. 

As the time approached for me to solidify my word I grew antsy, but I held firm, confident that a new word would appear. One day last month I happened upon a clip of Justice Kentaji Brown Jackson, where she was on a morning talk show discussing her memoir and her journey to the Supreme Court. In the clip, she shared many heartwarming antidotes about different stages in her life, but the one that stuck out for me was when she recalled feeling somewhat despondent during her freshman year at Harvard University. Kentanji felt like many of us do when we’re starting something new and not quite sure we have what it takes. As she walked through the campus one day a woman (whom she’d never met) leaned into her and whispered “Persevere.” 

Persevere- to continue making an effort to do or achieve something, even when it’s difficult or takes a long time. 

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson shared that the encouragement she received that day changed everything for her. It also made me think about some of the things I’d worked hard to bring to fruition last year. I checked a few boxes that I’m proud of, but some of them are hanging chads. For example, we’ve yet to find our forever home and I still have some big writing goals to meet. I’m pretty tenacious, so giving up wasn’t an option, but feeling despondent was. When I watched that clip where she emphasized the word that changed her mindset, I had a visceral reaction to it. I knew without a doubt that “persevere” was the one.

So, 2025 will be the year I persevere. I’m excited now about seeing my way through the challenges lying ahead. And as my husband George says about this new but uncertain year- “We’re not going to survive. We are going to thrive.” He’s right and that in itself, is worth staying the course. 

If you are looking for a word to help guide you or encourage you to stay the course, here’s how to choose the right word for your year:

1. Reflect on the Past Year

Before you decide where you’re headed, take a moment to look back. Ask yourself:

What challenges did I face last year?

What brought me joy or fulfillment?

What lessons did I learn?

Reflecting on these questions will help you identify what you need more or less of in your life.

2. Identify Your Priorities

What areas of your life are most important to you right now? Is it your career, health, relationships, personal growth, or creativity? Jot down a few key areas where you want to focus your energy this year.

3. Visualize Your Ideal Year

Close your eyes and imagine yourself at the end of this year. What kind of person do you want to be? How do you want to feel? Think about the habits, achievements, and experiences you hope to cultivate.

4. Brainstorm Words

Now it’s time to brainstorm! Write down words that resonate with the vision you’ve just created. Here are some examples:

• Growth: If you’re focused on self-improvement.
• Balance: If you need more harmony between work and life.
• Joy: If you want to prioritize happiness.
• Focus: If you’re determined to achieve specific goals.
• Courage: If you want to step out of your comfort zone.

Let your imagination flow—there’s no wrong answer here.

5. Narrow It Down

From your list, choose the word that feels most meaningful and inspiring. Ask yourself:

• Does this word excite me?
• Can it guide my decisions throughout the year?
• Does it align with my priorities and values?

If multiple words feel right, you can combine them (e.g., “Bold Joy” or “Intentional Growth”).

6. Incorporate Your Word into Your Life

Once you’ve chosen your word, make it a part of your daily life. Here are some ways to do that:

• Write it in your journal or planner.
• Display it somewhere visible, like on your desk or phone wallpaper.
• Reflect on it during your morning routine or meditation.
• Set small goals that align with your word throughout the year.

Choosing a word for the year is a powerful way to set an intentional focus. It’s less about perfection and more about staying aligned with what truly matters to you. By anchoring yourself to this word, you’ll create a meaningful guide to navigate whatever comes your way.

What will your 2025 word of the year be? Let me know in the comments. 

Until Next Post, 

Xo Tonya Parker