Happy New Year!
As we step into January, I’ve been reflecting on the idea of a fresh start—or maybe more accurately, a fresh calendar. Like so many others, I’ve been thinking about a word or phrase (one for professional life, one for personal life) to anchor this year. An intention or manifestation of sorts, something to guide me in a non-corny way, keep me grounded (or somewhat sane), and point toward the horizon ahead.
LEADERSHIP
For 2025, my word for work is splash.
This will be the fifth year running that I’ve chosen an intention. Here’s how my “tradition” has evolved:
2021 was authentic.
2022 was bright.
2023 was brave.
2024 brought the phrase live in the lab.
And now, in 2025, it’s time to make a splash.
Don’t let me fool you, though—there were plenty of bloopers and mistakes along the way. But in moments of doubt, frustration, or fear, I reminded myself that “I, Lisa Even, was going to be [insert word of the year] this year.”
Looking back, the progression feels right.
In 2025, I’m ready to dive in, take bold steps, and create a splash. Imagine me shaking off my anxiety and fear like snow off a car—poof. I have some bigger keynotes on the horizon, a second book brewing (shhh…), and I know these audiences will go back to their teams and make a positive splash in their cultures and teams, too.
Feeling skeptical about creating an intention? Here's an interesting article from Self on the power of manifestation.
LIFE
Personally, my phrase for this year is ride the wave.
With a 10-and-a-half-year-old (as she proudly tells me!) and a 13-year-old boy (long-haired, hoodie-wearing, video gamer), I sense this might be our last year of what I like to call the magic of childhood. Something about turning 14 and learning to drive feels like a big mental and lifestyle shift—for them and for me.
I’m holding onto the sweetness of this time while hesitantly welcoming the changes that lie ahead.
Now, I’m curious: what’s your word or phrase for 2025? Maybe it’s health as you prioritize personal goals. Maybe it’s patience because you know it’s a virtue worth nurturing. Or perhaps it’s listening, as big decisions often require awareness, emotional intelligence, and understanding. Or maybe it’s adventure, because life is short!
Here’s to January, a fresh start, and everything this year holds.
Cheers to your fresh calendar—what’s on yours?
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