By C.C. Cameron, PhD, MBA
Senior Managing Consultant 

As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us find ourselves caught in the familiar cycle of New Year’s resolutions — those nagging promises to eat healthier, work out more, or finally tackle that daunting project. But, let’s face it, they often feel more like a chore than an opportunity for real change. The constant "shoulding" — "I should exercise more," "I should spend more time with family," "I should be better at self-care" — can make resolutions feel wearisome and even guilt-inducing, rather than motivating.

But what if there’s a gentler way to guide ourselves through the year? A recent article in The Washington Post¹ caught my eye. It suggested that, instead of rigid resolutions, we can focus on a simple "nudge" — a word, or a few words, that subtly shift our mindset and gently encourage positive action. These nudge words aren’t about adding more to your to-do list or pressuring yourself into constant self-improvement. They’re about setting an intention that’s flexible, kind, and deeply personal. A nudge word serves as a gentle reminder to recalibrate, to move toward what feels important — without the heaviness of self-judgment.

As I reflect on my own 2024 — a year packed with work demands, family responsibilities, and little space for personal downtime — I’m choosing my 2025 nudge words carefully. "Balance," "calibration," "grace," and "compassion" are words that resonate with me now. They represent the things I hope to embrace more fully this year, especially in finding a healthier integration among work, family, and self-care. These words don’t demand perfection; they invite me to bring more presence and intention to my daily choices.

So, as we step into 2025, I encourage you to find your own nudge words. Let them be the quiet guides that support your growth, gently steering you toward a year that’s meaningful, without the pressure of a long list of resolutions. Here’s to a year of compassion and grace — both for yourself and those around you!

1. ”Set a vision for 2025. Here’s how to choose one.” The Washington Post (online), December 30, 2024. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/interactive/2024/nudge-word-2025-new-year-resolution/