The One Word Strategy

It's the time of year when everyone sets new goals. This can be a very valuable practice. A well-set goal provides clarity, making it easier to identify next steps and evaluate progress.

Of course, we've also all had the experience of entering the new year with the best of intentions only to see them crushed under the weight of old habits and the daily grind.

For anyone who has struggled with New Year's resolutions, I would like to suggest a simpler and, in my experience, more powerful approach. It is called the One Word Strategy.

All you need to do is choose a single word that you would like to guide you this year. It should be a character quality that you find appealing, one that will support your progress towards your goals, and one that will move you closer to the person you want to become.

Last year, I chose courage. When I faced resistance--whether internal or external in nature--or when a tough decision needed to be made, recalling that this was my year of courage provided me with both clarity and motivation. In particular, the question 'What would courage do?' helped me cut through my uncertainties and rationalizations.

The effectiveness of the one word strategy derives from its simplicity and flexibility. Being a single word, it could hardly be easier to remember. Yet, it can be applied to anything your year might bring. It combines the power of focusing on one thing with the adaptability needed to deal with everything life throws at you.

And at the end of the year, regardless of whether your goals were achieved, you will improved your character which, as the Stoics were fond of saying, is your destiny.

This year, my one word strategy is commitment. What will yours be?