One Word, One Year: A Simple Practice That Changes Everything

When you learn better, do better….but learning always comes first.

 Decide what you want to “do better,” narrow it down to one meaningful word, and dedicate a year to deeply studying that word.

 That’s exactly what I did in 2014 when I set out to understand the true meaning of "gratitude." The unexpected gifts of that journey continue to enrich my life in countless ways.

While exploring how gratitude enhances well-being, one word kept surfacing: “healing.” So in 2024, I decided to dive deeper into the connection between these two spiritual concepts—a journey that has brought several life-changing surprises.

As an American Idol fan, I was moved this season when my favorite contestant performed “Heal”—a song he had never sung before—and won the 2025 title. His performance left me speechless. 

The next day, I downloaded his song, and each day since then, I’ve closed my meditation session with his healing message. It does two remarkable things for me: 1) It serves as a healing prayer for myself and everyone I hold dear; 2) I’ve learned that healing has many layers, so the song inspires me to continue to explore the links between gratitude and healing and allow divine guidance to show me how to use what I learn! 

So what do you want to “do better” in 2026? 

Don’t say “nothing”—we all naturally want to improve in some way. What’s yours? A promotion, a new job, retirement? Is it a medical condition, relationship, or financial situation you want to address? Maybe a hobby or skill you want to develop, or perhaps you want to grow or start a business? 

What’s the one thing standing between you and your dream to “do better”? Is it discipline? Courage? Wisdom? Opportunity? Prosperity? Fear? Faith? Or something else? Whatever it is, choosing one word to focus on is a purposeful strategy that prioritizes what matters most—and it can be life-changing!

So here’s my New Year’s challenge: On January 1, choose a word and apply the small change ABC-123 Goal Setting Strategy to make 2026 your best year yet. Here’s how it works in three simple steps: 

1) Acknowledge your desire to change—choose what you want to “do better.”

2) Believe in your ability to change—trust that you already possess everything you need to “do better,” or you wouldn’t have the desire in the first place.

3) Commit to one daily small change—spend at least 10 minutes each day (longer, if you wish) learning about your chosen word. 

Be ready for small change blessons (blessings and lessons) along the way and expect to become a better version of yourself by year’s end. 

Do Better; Be Well! 

Looking for a wellness coach to help you begin your journey? I’m here to support you! Contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com.  

For additional wellness tips, subscribe to my small change Weekly Wellness Tips at https://www.myrtlerussell.com/contact-us.