On this heartwarming episode of A Good Pour, I sat down with three close friends, Erin Birch, Katherine Louw, and Liz Shea, to explore a tradition that has shaped our lives: selecting a Word of the Year. This practice has been a source of focus, growth, and reflection, helping us align our goals with purpose and faith.
What is the Word of the Year?
It’s more than a resolution; it’s a guiding theme for the year—a single word that captures the spirit of what you’re hoping to achieve or learn. Whether it’s “Harmony,” “Renew,” or “Rooted,” these words serve as anchors, reminders, and even invitations to grow in specific ways.
Liz beautifully described her word as “the title on the blank page of my year.” For Erin, the word starts with prayerful reflection, often surfacing from themes of what gave or drained life in the past year.
Our Personal Journeys with Words
Each of us shared how our chosen words have unfolded in unexpected ways:
- Erin’s “Rhythm” helped her balance work, family, and rest, allowing her to say “yes” to what truly mattered.
- Liz’s “Harmony” not only brought unity to her family but also literal harmony as she sang alongside younger generations.
- Katherine Louw’s “Story” unfolded as she witnessed the lives of her daughters and recognized how God was weaving His narrative into hers.
- My “Rooted” became about laying solid foundations in my work, relationships, and faith, reminding me to stay grounded while growing.
How to Choose Your Word
If you’re considering adopting this practice, here are some tips we discussed:
- Reflect on the past year. What themes or lessons stand out?
- Pray or meditate to listen for what God or your heart might be calling you toward.
- Journal your thoughts. Write down words that resonate, and see which one rises to the top.
- Look to scripture or definitions for deeper meaning.
- Start with what you need. Don’t overthink it—pick something that feels right, even if it’s simple.
For beginners, picking a fruit of the spirit (like patience or kindness) is always a meaningful place to start.
The Beauty of Community
Sharing our words with trusted friends has made the journey richer. As Liz pointed out, “We get to witness each other’s stories unfold, becoming keepers of each other’s treasures.” The encouragement and insights from those who know us well can reveal ways our words are taking shape—even when we can’t see it ourselves.
Closing Reflections
The Word of the Year isn’t about perfection or rigid goals. It’s about positioning ourselves for growth, connection, and good work. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or exploring this for the first time, we hope this practice inspires you as you head into a new year.