How ONE Word Will Impact Your 2026

January 05, 2026•5 min read

How ONE Word Will Impact Your 2026

As we turn the calendar to 2026, many of us feel the familiar pull of New Year’s resolutions—promises to do more, be better, fix habits, or chase goals. And yet, by February, most resolutions quietly fade. They often fail not because we lack motivation, but because they ask us to juggle too much, too fast, with too little grace.

That’s why I continue to believe in the power of ONE Word.

Rather than creating a long list of resolutions, ONE Word invites us to choose a single word that provides focus, clarity, and direction for the entire year. ONE Word becomes a lens through which we make decisions, respond to challenges, and reflect on growth. It doesn’t demand perfection—it encourages intentionality.

Why ONE Word Is Better Than Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions are often outcome-driven and rigid. ONE Word is value-driven and flexible. It grows with you. It meets you where you are on hard days and celebrates progress on good ones. ONE Word is not about adding pressure; it’s about providing purpose.

Instead of asking, “Did I keep my resolution?” ONE Word asks, “How did I live into my word today?” That shift makes all the difference.

My ONE Word for 2026: Transition

For 2026, my ONE Word is Transition.

I chose this word because 2026 represents a significant season of change in my life and leadership. On June 30, 2026, I will retire from Freeman School District—a place and community that have meant so much to me personally and professionally.

Transition is not simply about an ending. It’s about honoring what has been, thoughtfully navigating what is, and intentionally preparing for what’s next.

This year will be a transition of roles, routines, relationships, and identity. It will involve reflection, gratitude, and letting go—while also embracing new opportunities to serve, support, and grow in different ways. Transition reminds me to slow down, to be present, and to lead with purpose through change rather than rushing past it.

Transition as a Leadership Mindset

Transition also applies beyond my personal journey. In education and in life, we are constantly navigating transitions—students moving to the next grade, staff stepping into new roles, organizations evolving, and communities adapting to change.

By choosing Transition as my ONE Word, I am committing to:

Lead change with clarity and care
Honor the people and moments that shaped the journey
Support others through their own transitions
Remain open to learning, growth, and new beginnings

An Invitation to Choose Your ONE Word

As you begin 2026, I encourage you to consider choosing ONE Word of your own. Ask yourself:

What do I need more of this year?
What season am I entering?
What word could guide my decisions and mindset?

ONE Word won’t make life easier—but it will make it more focused, more meaningful, and more aligned with who you want to be.

Here’s to a purposeful year—one word at a time!

Closing Thought

The RLR Team wishes you a wonderful 2026!

🙌Five-Star Support

We’re grateful for the incredible feedback from our community! Here’s one of the latest five-star reviews that reminds us why we do what we do.

Are you ready to develop or update your Strategic Plan for 2026-27?

Let RLR Leadership Consulting help you and your school/school district with your Strategic Planning and Goal Setting. We have the capacity to help one more district this year!

Our experts have helped dozens of schools, school districts, and businesses develop their Strategic Plans and Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) through our highly interactive and engaging process which includes all of your stakeholders.

One Washington Superintendent shared, "What sets RLR apart from others is that they bring a rare combination of strategic insight, emotional intelligence, and practical experience. As a superintendent, I seek consulting services that deliver tangible value to both the system and its students—and that was consistently delivered."

Who's In Your Inner Circle?
RLR Leadership Consulting and The CORE Project

Think about the people closest to you. The ones you share ideas with, lean on for support, and let influence your decisions. That group—your inner circle—shapes how you see yourself, the choices you make, and even the risks you’re willing to take.

Sometimes, those relationships give you energy and push you forward. Other times, they hold you back. That’s why RLR Leadership Consulting and The CORE Project have teamed up to create Your Inner Circle—an opportunity to pause, reflect, and intentionally shape the connections that matter most.

In this experience, you’ll:

Identify who truly belongs in your circle
Learn how to set healthy boundaries when needed
Build trust that actually lasts
Choose connections that make you stronger

Because the truth is, leadership isn’t just about strategy or skills—it’s about people. And the people closest to you can either empower your growth or limit your potential.

We’d love for you to join us. As a special opportunity, use code Randy15 for a discounted price—but hurry, this offer won’t last long.
https://thecorepro.com/coregroups/p/your-inner-circle-curriculum

Your circle matters. Choose it wisely.

If you would like me, or someone from our RLR Team, to speak or work with your school and/or school district, please contact us at www.randyrussell.org.