Motto. Why?

Why I Chose a Motto for 2025 Over Goals and Intentions

I normally dedicate the last two weeks of each year to focus and take the time to feel the motto for the coming year. This became very important time for me. Because not only I take time for myself after a full year at service to others I, also, look for a the way to serve more authentically and in more congruency.

2025 is about:

"I will be a steady point of light—resilient, adaptable, and clear. I will embrace growth, release what holds me back, and focus on what truly matters. This is my year to shine with courage and grace."

This statement holds a powerful resonance for me because it reflects the kind of transformation I strive to guide others through. It is not about ticking boxes on a to-do list; it is about embodying a state of being that fuels sustainable progress and profound inner peace.

The Power of a Motto

A motto acts as a guiding principle, a steady compass through life’s inevitable turbulence. Unlike goals, which can sometimes feel rigid or overwhelming, a motto captures the essence of how we want to move through the world. It is a philosophy in action—a dynamic interplay between intention, resilience, and trust.

By adopting a motto, I anchor myself in a way of being rather than a fleeting achievement. It reminds me that life’s value lies not solely in the end results but in the process, the nuances, and the learnings that emerge from fully engaging with the present moment.

NLP Principles That Support This Choice

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) offers a compelling framework to deepen our understanding of how mottos like mine can inspire transformation. Here’s how key NLP principles apply:

1. Anchoring In NLP, anchoring is about connecting a specific stimulus to a desired state of mind. My motto serves as a mental anchor, a trigger that reactivates a sense of purpose, resilience, and clarity whenever challenges arise. By repeating this motto daily, I condition my brain to embody the qualities I aspire to manifest.
2. Reframing NLP teaches us to shift perspectives on situations that may initially seem negative. My motto’s emphasis on “embracing challenges as opportunities for growth” aligns perfectly with reframing. Instead of resisting difficulties, I view them as catalysts for self-improvement.
3. Focus on Outcomes While my motto is not a specific goal, it reflects an outcome—a way of living with clarity and courage. NLP encourages us to visualize desired states and move toward them with intention. My motto encapsulates my desired emotional and mental states, guiding my actions with precision.
4. Integration of Mind and Body NLP emphasizes the interconnectedness of thoughts, emotions, and physical states. My motto encompasses this holistic approach. It invites me to align my mental focus, emotional resilience, and bodily energy to shine even amidst the “fastest, most provocative moments.”

A Philosophical Perspective

As someone deeply rooted in philosophy, I see mottos as echoes of ancient wisdom. Stoic philosophers, for instance, emphasized living in harmony with nature and focusing on what we can control. My motto mirrors this timeless insight by advocating for adaptability and trust in the journey. It allows me to center myself amid uncertainty and remain anchored in my values, much like the Stoics did in their pursuit of a virtuous life.

Additionally, the metaphor of the “steady flame in the wind” carries profound symbolic weight. Fire is transformative—it lights the way, provides warmth, and even in its vulnerability, it endures. This imagery resonates with my commitment to remain steadfast and purposeful while embracing the unpredictable dance of life.

Inspiring Others Through Action

By choosing a motto, I also hope to inspire others to consider a shift in their own approaches. Instead of pressuring yourself with endless goals, ask: Who do you want to become? What state of being will help you navigate life with grace and joy? When you commit to living by a motto, you open the door to alignment, authenticity, and a deeper connection with yourself and the world.

How You Can Create Your Own Motto

1. Reflect on Your Core Values: What truly matters to you? Let your motto reflect those priorities.
2. Embrace Metaphor and Symbolism: Use imagery that resonates deeply and evokes a sense of purpose and strength.
3. Keep It Action-Oriented: Ensure your motto guides your behavior and mindset in tangible ways.
4. Revisit and Reaffirm: Make your motto a part of your daily ritual. Reflect on it, write it down, and let it steer your choices.

Make it a year for you.

See you soon,

Ligia Koijen Ramos