A Kinder Way to Start the Year: Choosing a Word, Not a Resolution | Andiamo Business Assistance
- Chloe Weatherhead
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
It’s January, so that can only mean one thing… resolutions.
If I’m honest, I’ve never been a huge fan. They come with a lot of pressure, often feel dictated by social media or other people’s expectations, and are usually broken by mid-January. Instead of motivating us, they can quickly turn into another stick to beat ourselves with — which is not what anyone needs during the dark, cold start to a new year.
That said, I recently came across an idea that really did resonate with me.
At a networking event, I heard Jasmine Clarke, coach and productivity guru, talk about choosing a “word of the year.” And honestly? It stopped me in my tracks.
The idea is beautifully simple. Instead of setting rigid goals or unrealistic promises, you choose one word to guide you — both personally and professionally. A word that gives you focus without restriction. Less pressure, more intention. Less judgement, more curiosity
It’s not a rulebook. It’s a nudge.
Your word becomes a lens you can look through when making decisions:
Does this feel aligned?
Does this move me in the right direction?
Does this support how I want to work and live?
What I love most is that it’s supportive. It creates clarity without boxing you in. It’s not about perfection or ticking boxes — it’s about choosing something that genuinely fits you.
As the owner of Andiamo Business Assistance owner, and someone who supports other small businesses and self-employed professionals, that idea really landed. So many of us are already juggling enough without piling on unrealistic expectations at the start of the year.
So this January, instead of resolutions, I’m leaning into intention. One word. One guiding idea. A carrot, not a stick.
If you’re feeling the pressure of “new year, new you” — maybe this is a gentler alternative worth trying.
Andiamo!
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