In today’s #ThursdayThoughts, I want to thank MacKay CEO Forums: CEO & Executive Peer Support for the opportunity to speak on August 12th about “Unlocking the Power of Your Third Chapter”.

Leadership is about more than achieving success; it is about creating opportunities for others and leaving the professional landscape better than you found it. As we enter our “Third Chapter,” we have an opportunity to redefine success through purpose, governance, and legacy.

Our professional journey unfolds in distinct chapters: first, we learn; then, we build; and finally, we lead. The most important transition comes when we move from doing our life’s work to redefining it; building a portfolio career that creates lasting impact through board leadership, advisory roles, and sponsorship.

Here are my key takeaways:

– The Third Chapter: Your Third Chapter (typically ages 50-75) is not an ending – it is a strategic launchpad for renewed purpose. It is the opportunity to transition from operational leadership to -portfolio career focused on governance, advisory work, and legacy-building.
– The Power of Three: One woman on a board can be viewed as a token. Two create a presence. Three create a voice. Reaching critical mass transforms boardroom dynamics, making diverse perspectives an influential and normalized part of decision-making.
– From Mentorship to Sponsorship: Mentors offer guidance behind closed doors. Sponsors advocate publicly by putting their credibility and influence on the line to open doors. Leadership is not just about sending the elevator down; it is about building new elevators for others.
– The 3 Ts: Time, Talent & Treasure: Lasting impact requires intentional investment. Dedicate your Time to sponsorship and governance, leverage your Talent to strengthen boards and organizations, and deploy your Treasure by investing in women-led businesses and the future of inclusive leadership.
– Give to Gain: The greatest legacy we leave is not measured by our titles but by the leaders we champion. Start today by becoming the sponsor you wish you had earlier in your own journey.

As you think about your own Third Chapter, ask yourself: What will your next chapter look like?