Choosing a motivational word for the year helps focus your efforts and energy to accomplish short-term goals and stay honed in on what’s important to you.

Several years ago, my husband, another couple, and I started choosing Words of the Year. The word should be aspirational, any part of speech that will help you focus on your goals for the year. Some of mine have been Footprint, Finish, Structure, and Decisions. Often, various definitions of the word apply to my circumstances.

For example, my word for 2020 was Footprint. I wanted to leave a footprint on people through my book, volunteering, and a scrapbook project. I also wanted to lessen my footprint on the house by decluttering our storage area, my office, and our closet.

My word for 2022 was Composed. I chose this word as its three different definitions all applied. I wanted to become more confident in my abilities as I prepared to get rejected by agents and editors during the querying process. I realized I needed to thicken my skin as an author.

Working on keeping my feelings and expressions under better control was also a strong desire. I tend to get worked up quickly over issues I care about deeply.

Lastly, I wanted to write more short literary pieces.

For 2023, I’ve settled on Plan as my motivational word. I want to better manage my time and get back to time blocking my days. I’d also like to formalize my to-do lists to make them more actionable.

Regarding time management, I’d specifically like to get better at estimating how long it takes me to get ready to leave the house without rushing or being late. My husband will appreciate this goal.

With the hope that my book sells to a publisher in 2023, I’d expect to be laying out plans for edits and other publishing matters. Also on the writing front, my goal is to start planning out and writing my next book this year.

Phew! Who’d have thought how loaded one word could be.

What is your word for 2023?