Word of the Year Reflection

Choosing a word of the year provides a simple yet powerful compass that can guide your decisions, actions, and mindset throughout the year. It's like a quick check-in on your purpose statement focused on 2025.

As we step into a new year, take 15 minutes to sit quietly with yourself and reflect. Ask yourself these two questions, inspired by Dr. Sasha Shillcutt's method:

1. What do you feel most needs to change in your life this year for you to feel peace?

2. What word would serve as a reminder that you are strong enough to face those changes?

This practice can bring clarity and focus to your year ahead.

For 2025, my word is Amalgamate. It reflects the ongoing process of blending the diverse skills and approaches I’ve acquired over time—clinical, leading, coaching, collaborating, creating, organizing, and networking.

Previously, transitioning from mentoring to coaching was a significant shift for me. Coaching required me to step back, ask questions, and create space for others to discover their own answers. But, did it mean I couldn't also mentor?

Later, when I stepped into a new leadership role, it was a big shift to step out of coaching mode and into collaborative decision-making while adding in some directive leadership as needed. It felt like I was leaving something behind—until I realized I didn’t have to.

Instead, I can bring the right proportions of each approach and skill, blend them thoughtfully and lead, coach, mentor, and care effectively.

Amalgamation reminds me that every part of who I am has value, and the key is learning how to integrate them to fit the situation.

What’s your word of the year? Please share it—I’d be honored to hear what you’ve chosen and why!