2025 Word of the Year

2024

Before I jump into sharing my 2025 Word of the Year, I’m going to take a moment to reflect back on the past year and how my 2024 Word of the Year helped to guide me. My 2024 Word of the Year was trust. I chose it after careful consideration hoping that it could guide me through some difficult times. While parts of 2024 were amazing – I learned how to (and go certified in) lead climbing, went top roping outdoors for the first time, and participated in my first ever bouldering competition.

I feel so lucky that I fell in love with a sport in my late 30s that I’m absolutely obsessed about. My partner first took me climbing in the summer of 2021. I was instantly hooked when I found something that was for me and not about work. I love that it takes equal parts of mental and physical strength and we have an amazing community of people that we climb with that are just so supportive, helpful, and kind.

Personally

2024 also held a lot of struggles for me both personally and professionally. It was a really rough year. We lost our beloved pup in March and it broke my heart. I know that many people know the pain of losing a pet, it was our first dog together and we got her only a few months after moving into our house. We had her almost ten years and it was a huge adjustment after she was gone.

Professionally

Professionally, my job took a lot more of my energy in the fall. I was managing not only my library, but also managing another nonprofit organization that had a major project that had to be completed. There were days when I didn’t know which way was up or how much more I could handle. But, I made it through even when I wasn’t sure if I could.

I kept reminding myself throughout 2024 that it’s okay to not be okay and that everyone you have contact with is dealing with something. Like I said, I’m really looking forward to 2025 and turning over a new leaf with a fresh start. And with that, let’s check out my 2025 Word of the Year!

2025

I’m choosing the word stillness for 2025. I felt like that for much of 2024, I was frantically treading just trying to keep my head above water. And I’m looking forward to stillness. I’m looking for “a state of freedom from storm or disturbance.” Time to move toward calmness and steadiness. A time for deep cleansing breaths and allowing my body and mind to relax.

There are so many things I’m excited for in 2025! I’ve just turned 40 and I’m ready to embrace it! There are trips I want to plan, things I want to do, books I want to read, hobbies I want to try.

I want to make a point to enjoy the outdoors, sightsee in my own city, and continue to learn. But in all of that, I also want to listen to my body and mind and make time and take time to take care of myself, spend time with my friends and family, and use up all my PTO!

I’m excited for what 2025 has in store! Do you have a word of the year or a new year’s resolution?