Resolutions don't work: What you need is a Guide Word
And here are three great reasons you should find yours!
Ok I’ve got a secret to tell you… I’m thrilled that Christmas is over! I know, I know this makes me the mega-grinch, and I do love the day itself and a few of the customs like carols, and drinks-parties and wearing my pyjamas to buy milk.
But the thing I don’t like about it is how no one seems to be able to talk about anything else for weeks. “What are you doing for Christmas?” has to be the second most boring question after “What do you do?”.
And now that Christmas is over, the next banal question is: ‘What are you doing for New Year…?’
One thing I absolutely will not be doing tomorrow is setting New Years Resolutions.
For the past few years I’ve been using a more effective, uplifting way to kickstart the year?
Enter the ‘Guide Word’—a simple yet transformative tool to guide your choices, mindset, and energy for the months ahead.
Here are a few reasons why a ‘Guide Word’ will be your game-changer for 2025.
Most resolutions fail because they demand flawless execution: “Go to the gym every day,” “Never eat sugar,” “Save £1,000 a month.” So when you slip-up, it feels like failure, leading to guilt and eventual abandonment. A Word of the Year—such as Balance, Trust, or Focus—provides a flexible framework. Forget to do your Duolingo? No problem—your word reminds you of your bigger aim: striving for connection or discipline in a sustainable way.
The Tweak: Choose a word that reflects who you want to become, not a single goal.
For example, if “Drink Less” is on your list, your guide word might be ‘clarity’. This is luring you towards an outcome that’s more enticing than the short term buzz of your Friday night margarita. It’s also more likely to lead you to try other behaviours that bring you clarity: swimming, thinking before you respond, decluttering your wardrobe.
Resolutions are about ticking boxes, but a Word of the Year lets you cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement. Words like expand, simplify, or authenticity allow you to respond to whatever happens to you over the course of the year. It also helps you reframe challenges as opportunities.
A Guide Word encourages reflection: Rather than ‘did I fail at my resolution?’ you can ask yourself the more empowering question: ‘how did I embody my word today?’
The Tweak: When you’re stuck, ask yourself gently: how might my word guide me towards a solution. Very often you’ll find clarity is restored.
Resolutions often run out of steam because they’re not tied to your true purpose. They come from a place of ‘I should’ as opposed to ‘I want to’. A thoughtfully chosen word, however, becomes your mantra, anchor, and compass. It spurs you on when you’re lacking momentum and when you succeed it reminds you – YOU DID THIS!
The Tweak: Choose a word that feels like encouragement from the most compassionate person you know, someone who’d lift you up when you’re drained and celebrate your wins with warmth. A Guide Word unites your aspirations rather than juggling 10 resolutions—get fit, get promoted, meditate more— exhausting!
A Guide Word ties all your desires into a single, empowering theme.
For instance, the word courage might guide you to put your hand up for something aspirational at work, have tough conversations in your personal life, or go on holiday by yourself.
Use your Guide Word as a filter for every decision. Ask yourself, “Does this align with my word?”
I’m running a masterclass on Sunday 5 Jan 5-6PM to help you choose your Guide Word. Here’s the link to book your spot. I’ve kept the price affordable. Once you book your ticket, you’ll get an email with the zoom link. (Make sure you check your spam folder).
And if you’re looking for an end of year reflection and vision-writing exercise there’s one in this email.
And finally, I’ve discounted my course: The Confidence Boost - 6 Ways to Get Unstuck. It’s 50% off until Sunday 5 Jan.
