My Word for 2026 and The Wellness Intentions I'm Bringing Into The New Year

If I’m being honest, the new year has always brought a mix of excitement and overwhelm for me. There’s so much possibility… and somehow that can feel just as stressful as it is inspiring. Am I setting the right goals? Am I doing this “new year” thing correctly? But lately, I’ve been reminding myself that goals don’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes they look like perfecting a Caesar salad, spending more intentional time with my very old dog, or writing a real letter to my best friend—even though we text every day. The big, ambitious goals still matter too, but there’s something grounding about honoring the small ones alongside them.

One tradition I’ve held onto since college is choosing a single word to guide the year ahead. Some years it comes easily; others take a little sitting with. This year, the word arrived quickly: vitality. Defined as “the state of being strong and active; energy,” it feels like an anchor—and a reminder of how I want to move through this next chapter, with curiosity, strength, and a little spark.

As we ease into this first whole week “back to it,” I’m keeping things simple—sharing a few wellness intentions to bring into the new year:  

• Replace “appearing busy” with “living well.”

• More intentional meetings, both professionally and personally.

• Wear SPF Every. Single. Day.

• Enjoy the “little treats” throughout the day - looking at you $8 cold brew.

• Go on 10 10-minute neighborhood walks, phone-free, in between client meetings and calls.

• Discover new ways to move my body (reformer pilates has been on my to-do list for at least 3 years now).

• Schedule regular healthcare check-ups and incorporate more self-care routines (as budget allows), such as facials, massage, and acupuncture.

• Exploring “goal planning” with seasons (or Q1, Q2, Q3, etc.) - instead of feeling overwhelmed at the beginning this year!