I hope you had some enjoyable time to relax over Christmas and the New Year with family and friends. I know it's been a tough year for the vast majority of us, but I hope that with the challenges that there have been some learnings and personal growth. As we kick off the year many of us set goals, resolutions or put plans in place… personally for me I like to select 3 words that set the scene for my year.
What is My 3 Words About?
At the start of each year I pick three words to guide my actions and choices for the year to come. These words act as my guideposts for the year ahead and help provide direction. They also influence my actions to be in favour of my goals or intentions. I use them to help me make decisions to keep me on track for the year.
Last year (2021) I chose: Joyful --- Transformation --- Courage
The My 3 Words idea is simple. Choose 3 words (not 1, not 4) that will help guide your choices and actions day to day. Think of them as lighthouses. Eg. “should I say yes to this project?” “Well, does this align with my three words?”
How to Choose Three Words
I started this process in 2020 and it personally helped me stay more in alignment with what I wanted to achieve for the year.
Choose any three words you feel will guide you forward. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
- Don’t make it a phrase. “Publish the book” is a not a great choice. “The” is wasted.
- Try to make the words actionable. “Expand” is better than “bigger.”
- The more utilitarian the word can be, the better. These words have to be your compass.
- Stick with the 3 words all year – don’t change throughout the year
- Use words that are in your vocabulary, not words of other people
- The words don’t have to mean anything to anyone but you. Don’t worry about explaining them.
- Review Them Daily - The more you review your 3 words, the better. I have mine printed out on my office wall so I can see them everyday. You could try adding them to your gratitude practice, meditation or journaling.
Here are my 3 words for 2022: Unifying ---- Prosperous — Inspiring
What will your 3 words be?