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Why My Word for 2025 is ‘Intentional’ (And What That Actually Means)

Table Of Contents

I’m going to be honest – 2024 was intense. Like, “forgot to eat lunch because I was making websites and my husband had to literally bring food to my desk” intense. Between managing client projects, growing the business, and trying to be present for my kids, something had to give. And usually, that “something” was my time and energy.

Here’s the thing: I love what I do.

I genuinely get excited about helping clinicians build websites that actually work for them. But working 12-14 hour days? That’s not sustainable, and it’s definitely not the example I want to set for my kids about work-life balance.

My word for 2025 is ‘intentional’

So for 2025, my word is “intentional.” Not because it’s trendy or looks good on an Instagram post, but because it’s exactly what I need right now.

What Being Intentional Means for My Business

Let’s break down what this actually looks like in practice:

Focused Service Offerings

I’m narrowing down my services to focus primarily on websites and systems strategy. While I love branding work, I’ve realized that my zone of genius is in creating websites that actually convert and setting up systems that make running a practice feel less like herding cats.

Clear Working Hours

No more “just one more email” at 9 PM while Oliver gives me those judgy dog eyes from his bed in my office. I’m setting specific work hours and sticking to them. This means:

  • Dedicated deep work time for client projects
  • Scheduled breaks (because bathroom breaks shouldn’t feel like luxury items)
  • A firm cutoff time for ending my workday

Project Selection

I’ve always been pretty good about only accepting projects that I think are good fit. But, I’m going to be even more intentional in 2025. Being intentional means saying “no” to projects that aren’t aligned with where I want my business to go. This isn’t about being picky – it’s about being purposeful. I want to work with clients where I can truly make a difference, not just add another project to my portfolio.

word of the year 2025

What This Means for My Clients

This shift isn’t just about me – it’s about providing better service to my clients. Here’s how:

More Focused Attention

By taking on fewer projects and managing my time better, each client gets more of my best energy. No more splitting my attention between too many tasks or rushing through projects just to keep up with an overwhelming workload.

Better Results

When I’m not stretched thin, I can dive deeper into each project. This means even more thorough research, more thoughtful solutions, and better outcomes for everyone involved. Although, to be clear – I always over deliver, so this will make it feel less rushed on my end and shorter work days that are more feasible.

Clearer Communication

With set working hours and better boundaries, clients will know exactly when they can reach me and expect responses. No more random 11 PM emails from me (sorry about those, by the way).

The Personal Side of Being Intentional

This isn’t just a business decision – it’s a life decision. In 2024, I missed too many little moments because I was always “just finishing something up.” My husband’s been incredibly supportive (shoutout to being my high school sweetheart who still brings me coffee in the mornings), but I want to be present for dinner conversations, not just physically at the table while mentally running through my to-do list.

Being intentional means:

  • Actually using my yoga studio membership instead of just making monthly donations
  • Reading books that aren’t about business or web development (and actually finish them!)
  • Having energy for family game nights instead of zoning out on the couch
  • Taking proper lunch breaks (preferably away from my desk!)

Moving Forward

This isn’t about working less – it’s about working better.

It’s about making sure every hour I spend working counts, and every hour I spend with family is actually spent with family.

I’m sharing this because I know I’m not the only one who’s struggled with these boundaries. If you’re nodding along while reading this, maybe it’s time to think about being more intentional with your time and energy too.

For my current and future clients: this shift means you’re getting the best version of me and my work. Not the rushed, overwhelmed version trying to do everything at once.

What’s Next

As we move into 2025, you’ll see these changes reflected in how I work:

  • Even MORE structured project timelines
  • Clearer boundaries around communication
  • Focused service offerings that play to my strengths
  • Regular business hours that respect both our time

This isn’t about doing less – it’s about doing better. And I’m excited to see how this intentional approach shapes both my business and life in 2025.

P.S. If you’re thinking about working together in 2025, let’s chat soon. With this more focused approach, I’ll be taking on fewer projects but giving each one more attention. And yes, I promise to respond to your email during actual business hours.

|| vickery ||

Hi, I'm Courtney

Dietitian turned web designer who helps private practice dietitians create websites that actually convert (without the tech headaches).

When I'm not building sites, you'll find me reading fantasy novels with a giant mug of tea and my dog Oliver at my feet.
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Declet Designs is a brand and web design studio for weight-inclusive private practices and organizations. Founded by Courtney Vickery, MS, RD, LD, a dietitian turned designer, we provide strategic branding, websites, and local SEO.

Located in Athens, GA, and serving businesses nationally.

Declet Designs is a welcoming space built on the belief that every body deserves dignified, affirming care. We're committed to weight inclusivity, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, neurodivergent-affirming practices, and anti-racism. If those values don't align with yours, we're probably not the right fit, and that's okay.

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