Pantone Color of the Year 2021 - Enduringly Optimistic

The Pantone Color of the Year for 2021 is actually a combination of two colors, representing the complexity of the year we’re entering.

It’s a partnership that I think we can all relate to.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, says,

“The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude. Practical and rock-solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a color combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.”

No doubt, 2020 will be the butt of jokes for a very long time! And flipping the calendar to a new year doesn’t automatically make all the hard things disappear. This is so important to remember! There is no magic button. 2021 will be what you make it!

So how about joining me in taking the perspective that Pantone is offering?

We are entrepreneurs. Resiliency runs in our veins! So I really want to challenge you to start this year off by looking at the two partners in this color combination.

Let’s make 2021 a year of strength, hope, and growth!

What gives you strength and fortitude going forward?

Think about the foundation you’ve built so far in your business. Don’t forget about all the work you’ve already done to make this year amazing!

Have you done solid market research that gives you a clear picture of what your potential clients want? Do you have a team that works together like a machine? Have you dug deep into your branding so it reflects your vision and your mission?

Do you surround yourself with people who push you toward success? I’m seeing how important this is more than ever before. There’s enough negativity in the world. Make your inner circle your cheering section!

Ultimate Gray reflects a sense of thoughtfulness. An effort to remain strong even in the midst of uncertainty. Like a rock.

What are the rocks in your business?

On the other hand, what offers hope for positive momentum in your business this coming year?

Illuminating is a warm and vivacious shade of yellow that suggests promise. What makes you happy and optimistic?

I think we’ve all learned to hold close the things we value. What are you holding close?

This is about so much more than goals. Of course, set goals! But this shade was chosen for its warmth and power, kind of like solar energy. So when you look at it, think about the energy you’ll gain from whatever the year brings.

Failures? You’ll grow through them!

Obstacles? You’ll go around them!

And every challenge will bring growth. That’s resiliency and hope.

So how can you use Ultimate Gray and Illuminating in your business this year?

Not only do these colors give us a lot to think about. But I love the solid framework they can add to your branding!

Ultimate Gray is far from boring. Use it to anchor your text to your images. It’s simple, yet strong. It provides less contrast than black and has a natural, weather-worn feel.

Illuminating is that pop of color we’re all craving right now. It’s a shade that inspires life. Add glimpses of hope to your visuals with Illuminating yellow. A flower. Sunshine. Text.

I love the combination Pantone has come out with this year. I hope you’re inspired to see the promise and strength this year holds for your business!