Finding the Roots of Joy
Every year, as the calendar turns, I embark on a small but significant personal tradition: choosing a single word to guide my intentions for the year ahead. It’s more than just a resolution; it’s a compass, a gentle reminder of what I want to cultivate in my life.
Over the years, these words have marked different seasons and lessons:
Each word held its own power, pushing me, grounding me, or inspiring me to grow. They’ve been about self-care, decisive action, building connections, and embracing new experiences.
As I approached 2026, I found myself wanting a word that wasn’t just about growth or action, but about the experience of life itself. My heart yearned for more fun, more laughter, more moments spent immersed in nature, richer connections with family, and a deeper sense of presence in every single day.
It felt like a big ask for one little word to hold all that! But after some reflection, two words truly resonated: Flourish and Savour.
Flourish immediately brought to mind growth, vitality, and thriving, a beautiful outcome of a life well-lived. It felt like the “icing on the cake,” the visible result of positive intention.
Then there was Savour.
Savour felt like the roots. It spoke to the process of experiencing, the act of deeply appreciating each moment. To savour means to taste, to relish, to take in fully. While demanding presence, the word also serves to invite joy. It’s a reminder to slow down and truly feel the goodness in my life.
I realised that to flourish truly, I first need to learn how to Savour.
That is why my intention for 2026 is to SAVOUR.
This word is my invitation to:
- Be present:
Put down my phone and truly connect with my loved ones. - Find joy in the small things:
Appreciate the warmth of a cup of tea, the sound of laughter, or the quiet beauty of a sunrise. - Embrace nature:
Breathe deeply when I’m outdoors, noticing the details of the trees, the sky, the earth. - Deepen connections:
Relish conversations, hugs, and shared experiences with my family. - Live with intention:
To not rush through life, but to taste it fully, making every moment count.
It’s a reminder that life isn’t just about reaching destinations, but about appreciating every step of the journey. To savour the fun, to savour the laughter, to savour the quiet moments, and to savour the vibrant energy of family and nature.
Here’s a quote that perfectly encapsulates this feeling:
“Do not be in a hurry. You will get there. Slow down and savour the moment. The journey is life.”
— Lailah Gifty Akita
And my daily prompt to keep me anchored:
"What is one simple sensory pleasure I can notice and truly savour today?"
I’m incredibly excited to see how “Savour” shapes my year. What about you? Do you have an intention word for the new year, or a tradition that helps you focus your energy? Share in the comments below!
What do you think? Would you like any adjustments or additions?