It’s that time of year again! The time to reflect on the past year, and meditate on what the next will bring (can you tell I’m in the middle of a review cycle??). A tradition that I’ve picked up from my mentor and manager, Craig, is to set a “Word of the Year” to encapsulate the goal of the next year. I’ve found this to be elegant and much simpler than a new year’s resolution, as well as more holistic. An added benefit is it’s much easier to write on a sticky note and place next to the mirror in the bathroom to look at every morning. 

In 2023 my WOTY was Grow, in 2024 it was Heal, and in 2025 it was Change. Looking back I’ve obviously had a theme, and one that was set by the events going on in my life. I can’t say I necessarily healed in 2024, or that I grew as much as I wanted to in 2023, but the intention was there; 2025 was a year of big change however. From the outside it looks like not a whole lot has changed, I still reside at 457 East 5th Ave, I am still at Leap, and I’m still exploring my limits. But my outlook is so much different. I started the year struggling with semi severe depression and a grim outlook on life, and now I’m finishing the year with a vibrancy, excitement, and genuine joy that I haven’t felt in years. Change indeed. 

So all that said, I have two words for 2026, Flourish and Lead. The below is my “Year Statement” that describes my intention with these words. 
This year, I will flourish so I can lead, and I will lead in a way that helps others flourish. I will build upon the work already done to become the strongest, healthiest version of myself, and I will use that strength to make a meaningful impact on the people and projects that matter to me. My inner growth fuels my outer leadership, and my leadership is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and integrity. I rise and I bring others with me. 

My challenge for you is to reflect on the next year and set your own intentions, and maybe even an associated word of the year. And if you’re willing to share it, I would love to hear it. 

Happy Trails, 
Andrew