By Julie Williams-Muz, M.Ed, CPA, CFO, MSBO Board President, Finance Director, Bay-Arenac ISD
Each year, as educators and business officials across Michigan prepare for a new budget cycle, a new school year, or a new chapter in their professional journey, we often find ourselves juggling dozens of goals, priorities, and resolutions. But what if we could simplify — not by doing less, but by focusing more?
That’s the heart of Jon Gordon’s “One Word” idea — a powerful concept that helps individuals and teams cut through the noise and create meaningful clarity and purpose for the year ahead.
The Power of One Word
Instead of writing a long list of resolutions or detailed action plans, Gordon challenges us to choose a single word that encapsulates our focus, intention, or vision for the year. It could be something like purpose, balance, growth, connection, or gratitude.
This one word becomes your compass — guiding how you approach challenges, relationships, and opportunities. It simplifies your mindset while amplifying your impact.
One Word in Action: MSBO and Michigan Schools
At MSBO and throughout schools across Michigan, our work touches every aspect of education — from finance and facilities to food service, technology, and transportation. No matter your role, your one word can help align your daily decisions with your deeper purpose.
Imagine if each of us — business officials, superintendents, support staff, and administrators — came to work each day united by our individual words, each contributing to a larger shared mission of supporting Michigan students. The cumulative effect would be powerful.
- A business official might choose clarity — to foster transparency in budgeting and communication.
- A transportation director might focus on safety.
- A principal might commit to trust — strengthening relationships with staff and families.
- A technology leader could choose innovation — to empower others through new tools and solutions.
When we share our one words as a team, we build understanding and accountability. It opens purposeful dialogue about what truly matters and how we support one another to grow together.
Building Stronger Teams
View Jon Gordon’s video “One Word that will Change Your Life.”
Creating and sharing your one word can be one of the most powerful team-building experiences you bring to your school or department this year. It encourages vulnerability, builds connection, and aligns everyone toward a shared sense of meaning — far beyond job titles or checklists.
Consider hosting a short “One Word” session with your team:
- Reflect together on the past year.
- Discuss what matters most for the year ahead.
- Encourage each person to select and share their word.
Display those words in your office, share them in meetings, and revisit them throughout the year. It’s a small activity with a profound and lasting ripple effect.