Simplify: My Word of the Year for 2025

Definition: Simplify (verb) – to make something easier to do or understand by removing unnecessary elements or complexity.

In 2024, my word of the year was declutter, and it transformed the way I approached life and work. I embraced letting go of excess—whether it was physical belongings, time-wasting habits, or mental clutter. Now, coming into a new year, I’m doubling down on this mindset but with a fresh perspective. My word for the year for 2025, simplify, isn’t just about cutting out distractions—it’s about creating clarity and space for what truly matters.

Simplify isn’t just about doing less; it’s about doing the right things with greater ease and purpose. It’s the guiding principle behind my goals this year, helping me focus on fewer, better partnerships, more intentional marketing, and deeper client relationships.

Here’s how I’m putting simplify into action this year.

Goal 1: Expanding Partnerships

One of my biggest priorities this year is to expand my circle of like-minded professionals who share my vision for beautiful, livable design. To make this happen, I’m creating a “Dream 50” list of 50 potential referral partners—think architects, realtors, builders, and event planners who could help us create magic together. My plan is simple yet focused: contact one potential partner every week and attend networking events to nurture those connections.

Building partnerships reminds me of planting a garden (even though I have a terrible black thumb and am notorious for killing houseplants!). You don’t just throw seeds everywhere; you pick the perfect spots, water them regularly, and watch the connections bloom. With this strategy, I’m simplifying my outreach while staying consistent—and who knows? By year’s end, my Dream 50 might become 50 fabulous new connections and friendships.

Goal 2: Refining Marketing Content

If there’s one thing I know about content creation, it’s that consistency beats complexity every time. This year, I’m streamlining my marketing by creating a yearlong content calendar for blogs and videos. Once the content is planned, I’ll be repurposing it across platforms—because why reinvent the wheel when you’ve already got a good thing going?

It’s a little like designing a multipurpose space in a home. One great piece—whether it’s a custom bookshelf or a stellar blog post—can serve multiple purposes if you’re intentional about how you use it. With a clear plan in place, I’ll not only save time but also ensure every piece of content resonates with my audience.

Goal 3: Increasing Repeat Clients

My business thrives on relationships, and in 2025, I want to nurture the ones I already have. That means touching base with past clients in thoughtful ways, like sending small gifts or cards to say, “I’m thinking of you.” I’ll also offer follow-up consultations, making it easy for clients to revisit their spaces and dream up new projects.

Think of this goal as the art of keeping the spark alive in a long-term relationship. It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about consistent care and attention that makes clients feel valued and inspired. By focusing on the clients who already know and love my work, I’m simplifying my approach to growth in the most meaningful way.

Goal 4: Healthy Habits

This year, I’m taking my health goals seriously but keeping them manageable—because simplifying isn’t just for work. My 2025 plan is to move my body for 15 minutes daily (I recently subscribed to MommaStrong and love it!), read 50 books, and eliminate cereal and ice cream from my diet.

Here’s my motivation: the best design projects don’t come together in a day—they’re the result of small, thoughtful steps. In the same way, these simple habits will help me build a healthier, more energized foundation for everything I want to achieve. Plus, I’m curious to see if my book list ends up inspiring a few blog posts along the way.

Simplify isn’t just a word; it’s a lens through which I’m viewing every part of my life and business in 2025. By streamlining my partnerships, marketing, client outreach, and even my daily habits, I’m focusing on fewer, better things. It’s about clarity, purpose, and making space for what truly matters.

Here’s to a year of simplicity—and success.

About Lesley Myrick

Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, intuitive, and exceptionally organized interior designer specializing in designing distinct “forever homes”. She works with high-achieving professionals to create playful, personality-driven and family-friendly spaces that are as functional as they are unique.

At Lesley Myrick Interior Design, we make the typically confusing design process seamless. Our high-touch, deeply engaged design process means that we accept just 6 large-scale remodeling projects per year. 

Learn more about our full-service interior design and inquire here to start your design project.