Choose a Word That Leads You
It’s easy to create goals. It is harder to live with them.
That’s why I choose one word every December that becomes my leadership compass—not just a motivational mantra.
This word becomes how I choose, lead, and show up in the world. It keeps me anchored when things get noisy. It reminds me who I’m becoming.
Why One Word Works
We live in a world that demands more: more productivity, more metrics, more achievement.
But the most powerful leaders don’t chase more—they focus deeper.
Your one word simplifies your decisions, clarifies your energy, and sharpens your impact. It becomes a lens that filters:
What to say yes to
What to release
How to show up with intention
How to Choose Your Word
Don’t pick a word that sounds good on paper. Choose one that stretches you.
Here’s a 3-step process:
Reflect
Ask yourself:
What did I need most this year that I didn’t fully embrace?
Where do I feel resistance heading into 2026?
Who do I want to become?
Listen for Themes
Review your journals, calendar, and key moments from this year. Look for repeating themes—where you struggled, broke through, or felt most alive.Choose the Stretch
Your word should feel both grounding and slightly uncomfortable. That’s where growth happens.
Examples of Powerful Words
Rooted – for the leader learning to stay steady
Bold – for the one stepping out of fear
Enough – for the one unlearning perfectionism
Lead – for the one ready to stop hiding
Honor – for the one choosing self-respect
Make It Real
Once you choose your word, live into it:
Write it on a post-it and place it where you’ll see it daily
Make it your phone wallpaper
Ask yourself every week: How did I live my word?
Final Thought
Your word doesn’t need to impress anyone.
It needs to guide you.
Because clarity isn’t about knowing the whole path—it’s about having a direction. And this one word could change the way you lead, work, and live in 2026.
Ready to Strengthen Your Presence and Lead with Clarity?
Join Failure to Quit—a purpose-driven leadership experience designed for high achievers ready to stop performing and start leading from their core.
