For over a decade, I’ve engaged in a tradition called My Three Words. Each December, I select three words to steer my decisions and actions throughout the year ahead, inspiring me to stay true to my values.

When I first came across this idea from writer and speaker Chris Brogan back in 2015, I had no idea it would go on to play such a pivotal role in my life. But over the years, it’s a practice that has grown in significance to me, acting as a guiding light on my journey. Establishing and abiding by my three words has taught me to let go of distractions and prioritize activities that bring me closer to my goals.

This year, I’m pleased to share that my three words for 2026 are reflect, cherish, and gratitude.

2025 was a challenging year for me. In August, my mother passed away at the age of 89, leaving a void in her wake. My mother was a hard-working immigrant who inspired others with her optimism, kindness, and determination. From her example, I learned the value of living with purpose and integrity, and I know her lessons will continue to guide me in the years to come.

Recognizing my remarkable mother’s role in my life, my three words for 2026 were primarily inspired by my desire to honour her legacy. However, they were also informed by some of the brighter moments from 2025—celebrating Women Get On Board Inc. (WGOB)’s 10th anniversary, planning for the next decade and beyond, and receiving the ICON award from BMO, which recognized my work towards my social purpose of promoting women on boards.

Here is what each of my three words for 2026 mean to me:

Reflect

Meaning: To think carefully and deeply about something. Consider past experiences, actions, and results to gain insight and understanding.

Guidance: Reflecting encourages personal growth. By examining past choices and their effects, you can learn from both successes and failures, helping you to make more informed and thoughtful decisions in the future. 

Cherish

Meaning: To appreciate something deeply; to value and care for it with affection. This word emphasizes the importance of conveying love and recognizing the significance of people, moments, or things.

Guidance: Cherishing encourages you to focus on the positives and nurture relationships and experiences that bring joy and fulfillment. It’s about appreciating the present and valuing what truly matters in your life.

Gratitude

Meaning: The quality of being thankful; a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. To practice gratitude is to recognize and value the good in your life, both big and small.

Guidance: Practicing gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what you have, fostering contentment and happiness. Gratitude can improve emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and enhance overall life satisfaction.

This year, I intend to rely on each of my three words for guidance, looking to them as reminders to reflect on my experiences, cherish what matters, and be grateful for what I have. Throughout the past decade, I’ve discovered that when fully embraced, my three words can enrich my journey by encouraging mindfulness, gratitude, and a positive attitude. They serve as anchors, helping me stay true to my values and focus on what enriches my life.

If my story has resonated with you, I encourage you to consider selecting your own three words for 2026. You might be surprised by how they inspire you to move forward in your personal and professional journeys.

My three words since 2015:
2025: Inclusion, Elevate, Sponsor
2024: Advocate, Listen, Lift
2023: Elevate, Innovate, Sustain
2022: Light, Lift, Laugh
2021: Reach, Shine, Connect
2020: Energize, Elevate, Empower
2019: Breathe, Build, Empower
2018: Connect, Cultivate, Communicate
2017: Shine, Nurture, Grow
2016: Leverage, Focus, Empower
2015: Inspire, Breathe, Build