Word for 2026

Embrace- accept or support willingly and enthusiastically

Have you ever felt like you were just going through the motions? Have you ever just pressed your way because you had to or because it was what was expected of you, but you weren’t necessarily happy about it? Well, you’re in good company.

Last year my word for the year was gratitude and it suited me. It carried me well through the year. For the most part I felt thankful in most things and my word served as a reminder when things got tough to still be thankful. Most of the time when I recalled my word and expressed gratitude I felt better about what I was dealing with or what was happening. I recognize that things could always be worse and that sometimes I shouldn’t even be thinking about complaining.

But I am still human right? So, when I’ve worked a particularly long shift that was emotionally challenging and mentally draining only to have to fight traffic to get to one or two or three of my children’s activities and then must feed us afterwards and homework hasn’t even been started, my gratitude meter though present is low.  Though I am thankful, I sometimes have an attitude about all of the things that I have had to do throughout the day, week or month that has left me exhausted and sometimes frustrated.

Therefore, I decided that I don’t just need to be thankful. For 2026, I need to learn to embrace this season of my life and change my perspective about how I navigate things. Sometimes perspective is everything and attitude is the rest.

I’m embracing this season of motherhood, family, career and all that comes with it because I am excited and thankful for the opportunity. I am embracing the challenges as well as the rewards. The rewards are where I am going to place my focus. I’m going to do what I can for myself in the midst of all that I do for others. I am going to enjoy the moments I’m in rather than lament the ones that I have missed because of other obligations. 2026 is the year of embrace!  I’m embracing my season in life willingly and not begrudgingly. I’m embracing my goals and making them a priority. I am releasing the expectation of myself to do it all and will do what I want and not necessarily what I can. While embracing, I’ll be sure to express gratitude as well.

Do you have a word or theme for 2026? If not, you may consider getting one to help guide your year.