My ‘One Word’ for 2026 is Attention.
As an alternative to setting New Year’s resolutions, I am an advocate of the One Word concept. I have found this extremely beneficial, far more effective than making a list of resolutions. It is simple and powerful. It helps keep a steady focus throughout year. The challenge is deciding which word to select.
Last year, my word was Cultivation. I was looking for a ‘step-change’ improvement to enhance my capacity and potential. I believe I was successful and will continue to reap what I constantly sow. In past years, my one word has included – Gapless, Battle, Presence, Rejoice, Mindfulness, Discipline, and Synergy.
For this year, I originally had a different word in mind. However, while finishing my reflection on that word, I realized I had a bigger concern to address, “Attention.” I was not paying close enough attention to conversations, surroundings, or events happening around me. A person of my age might just attribute those shortcomings to getting older. But I am pretty sure the problem rests within my control.
Attention is our brain’s ability to focus on specific information while filtering out less relevant material. It’s the cognitive process that allows us to concentrate on a task, conversation, or thought. It is about living more deliberately and empowering ourselves to lead more focused, intentional, and fulfilling lives.
In today’s fast-paced world, attention is one of the most valuable skills a person can develop. It shapes how we perceive the world, learn, and make decisions. Without the ability to focus, we become vulnerable to distractions that reduce productivity and mental clarity. Attention isn’t just about concentration, it’s about deliberately directing our mental resources to what truly matters, allowing us to make sense of our experiences and reach our goals.
Albert Einstein hit the nail on the head when he said, “Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves.”
Attention is essential for effective communication and relationship-building. It allows us to engage meaningfully with others, listen actively, and respond appropriately. Giving undivided attention is the first and most basic ingredient in any relationship, it is the least one individual can do for another — and sometimes the most. When attention is compromised, misunderstandings and conflicts arise, negatively impacting personal and professional relationships.
“Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” – Simone Weil
Attention is the gateway to higher cognitive function. A student studying for exams needs sustained attention to absorb and retain information. A driver navigating busy traffic relies on attention to spot hazards and make split-second decisions. A professional in a meeting needs to focus on the business discourse while ignoring email notifications. A parent listening to their child’s day at school requires attention to build meaningful connection. A spouse engaged in a conversation needs to be present and focused on the discussion. What we give our attention to grows – good or bad.
Attention also helps to filter out the noise of modern life so we can focus on what’s truly valuable. In a world filled with endless notifications, content, and choices, knowing where to direct our attention is critical. It determines whether we spend our time on meaningful work, deep relationships, or shallow distractions. Developing intentional attention is like building a compass that keeps us aligned with our purpose. Where we place our attention often predicts the direction of our outcomes. Attention can function like an internal GPS – whatever we program it to notice; it finds more. Attention drawn to problems, disappointments, or shortcomings pushes us to see them everywhere. Conversely, attention directed towards possibilities, solutions, and growth opens doors.
The constant stream of internal and external distraction splinters our attention; and with it our energy and ability to operate at a high level of efficiency and creativity. We feel that everything is important and if everything is important, then nothing is important. I personally suffer from ‘context switching,’ mentally switching from one train of thought to another because of everything on my plate. Tasks take longer to complete, errors increase, and relationships can suffer as we struggle to be fully present with others.
Of course, it’s not always easy. We live in an age of unprecedented distraction. Our devices, the constant stream of information, and balancing competing demands make the ability to focus more precious than ever. But therein lies the opportunity: If we can learn to be more intentional about where we place our attention, we create a kind of personal superpower.
When I look to scripture for examples of struggles with attention, Luke’s Gospel (10:38-42) and the account of Martha and Mary leaps to mind. Martha was distracted by all the preparations. She got so busy with things — good things — that she missed out on experiencing Jesus. Mary didn’t miss Jesus; she paid attention to what was important at that moment.
In Proverbs 4:20-22, we read, “My son, to my words be attentive, to my sayings incline your ear; Let them not slip from your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them, bringing health to one’s whole being.” Acquiring wisdom that brings life and health involves two stages: first paying attention and hearing the teacher’s words and then treasuring them in the heart.
In 1Kings 3:19, King Solomon asks, “Give your servant, therefore, a listening heart to judge your people and to distinguish between good and evil. For who is able to give judgment for this vast people of yours?” The request for a listening heart to judge is an ask to be attentive.
In the Book of Job, in Chapter 33, Elihu urges Job to “pay attention” and listen to his wisdom, demanding silence so he can speak. Elihu is stepping in after Job’s friends fail to satisfy him. This phrase highlights a key moment of intense, direct confrontation and marks his attempt to get Job to stop defending himself and instead listen.
In our life’s journey, what we choose to notice can shape everything. We must prioritize our attention to the people and projects that matter, regardless of the time it takes. Let’s manage our focus on the right people at the right moments and for the right reasons. We will live more fulfilling lives.
