Choosing a one-word theme for 2026

As the new year approaches, many people feel the familiar pull to set goals or create resolutions. But while resolutions are popular, research shows that for many people, they’re not particularly effective.

There’s a simpler, more flexible (and more fun) approach I like to use as I consider how I want to shape the year to come: the one-word theme.

What is a one-word theme?

A one-word theme is just what it sounds like: a single word or short phrase that serves as a guiding principle for the year. It’s a concept that will help guide your decisions and notice opportunities.

Unlike traditional resolutions, a theme is imaginative and adaptable. It’s about direction, rather than success or failure. 

Why choose a one-word theme?

A one-word theme is short and simple enough to stick in our minds, even on busy days, yet rich enough to apply to work, relationships, health, and creativity. For instance, a theme like “Open” might remind you to stay receptive to new experiences, keep an open mind in conversations, or literally open your home to others more often.

The right word can even reveal new meanings as the year progresses. 

My one-word theme for 2026

This year, I chose the word “Neighbor.” I want to draw closer to the people around me–in the blocks around my apartment, in my city, and in my country. I want to put out a welcome mat; I want to lend a cup of sugar to someone who needs it; I want to engage more warmly with the people around me; I want to reach out across differences with neighborly warmth.

Tips for choosing your word

Good ideas can come from anywhere. For me, it felt like the word “Neighbor” suddenly jumped out at me–so during my recent review of previous years’ “Design Your Year” materials, I was startled to realize that I’d added “Neighbor” as a second theme in 2024. Clearly, this aim has been on my mind for a long time.

A few questions you might ask yourself:

Once you’ve chosen your word, have some fun with it. You might write it on a card and pin it up by your desk or set it as your phone background.

It can also be helpful to choose a visual symbol to represent your one-word theme. For “Neighbor,” I’ve chosen a welcome mat as my symbol. For “Bounce,” Elizabeth chose a kangaroo. Once you have your symbol, you can look for a mug, t-shirt, jewelry, or other item to remind you of your theme. Keeping your word visible (as a word or in a symbol) helps to keep your uppermost in your mind as you move through the year.

Looking for more ways to be happier in 2026? Explore all of my tools for designing your year.