Three

I have done this a couple of times before. But as I have lost my focus and inner guiding voice, there have been gaps in the years.

The concept is as brilliant as it is empowering: Choose three words to serve as a lighthouse, guiding you throughout the year. These words are not random; they are carefully chosen to reflect my aspirations, values, and areas for growth. This can empower you to intentionally shape your year. As Chris Brogan puts it: "Select three meaningful words with which to guide any decisions you may need to make in the coming year. The words should point to who you intend to be, what you want to focus on, and how you want to perceive the work of the year ahead."

Balance

As I wrote in a previous blog post, "Balance," after making a hard reset of my life at the beginning of the year, I have begun a new journey, focusing more on my inner compass to rediscover my Why and find balance. So it feels natural to pick up this habit again, to have something to hold on to as I find my way back to being a guiding leader with a more infinite mindset.

As it's easy to get caught up in the glorification of busy, the three words can also help me shine a light on past events and learn where I lost focus and need adjustment. A new start also means having the courage to step back to gain a better perspective on everything. With the help of the three words, you will notice where you need to change direction or even say no to ongoing things, reassuring you that it's okay to adjust and encouraging you to keep moving forward.

The Power of Three

I have chosen three words to inspire me and, in every situation, remind me of what's important - essential for me to keep moving. So, with this said, I'm restarting #my3words with the following guiding words:

Spark - As a leader in a fast-moving company, I realized how important it is to always have a creative spark, one that inspires me to challenge myself and find new paths forward. I have taken this for granted, but now, I must fight for it - to always prioritize what keeps that spark alive. This word will remind me of what matters and help me make decisions that keep me feeling engaged and creative.

Voice - I need to express myself, have a voice, and tell a story that inspires and connects people. This also ties back to the first word - spark, because having a voice and writing it will help keep the spark alive. It's also about being true to myself, maintaining my integrity, and growing as a person and as a leader.

"The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller. The storyteller sets the vision, values, and agenda of an entire generation that is to come" - Steve Jobs.

Guide - As a leader, I always need to refine the principles that underpin my leadership—the ones that guide me. This is especially true now in my current role. So, to stay on top of things and become the leader I know I can be, 'Guide' will focus on what's essential to staying on track and thriving.

There you have it - the three words that will guide me for 2026. What is guiding you, and are you using words to inspire you? I would love to hear about your guiding words and how they have impacted your life. Let's create a supportive community where we can share our personal insights and inspire each other. Share your thoughts in the comments below or post on social media using the hashtag #my3words.

In my next post, I will start a recap of a series of leadership posts about leading like a guide. I find them still relevant, but they will be reflected in where I am today—on the journey to rediscovering my Why and towards a more infinite mindset as a leader.