#Three April 7

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Today’s Coach4aday post is a communication and messaging technique that involves the number THREE.

In my last full-time position before retirement, I learned a fantastic communication method from a colleague named Justin Smith. In 2020 I wrote about Justn and his family visiting every NC Park in one year.

He was hired by the UNC Pembroke to craft messaging and communications. His expertise in writing taught me a lot including the definition of the word chachkas. His biggest gift to me was understanding the power of a writing principle called the Rule of Three.

Rule of Three

The Rule of Three is a principle of writing or storytelling that suggests that things that come in threes are more satisfying and effective than any other number.

In a leadership role, the Rule of Three can be utilized by communicating important messages or goals in three concise points, making it easier for others to understand and remember. It can also be used in decision-making by considering three options and their potential outcomes.

One example of this comes from the Gettysburg Address. Many scholars concur that the words of Abraham Lincoln comprised the greatest speech ever delivered by a US President.

“Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.” – Abraham Lincoln

Creating a leadership philosophy that will resonate with the people you lead will be more powerful if it applies the principal Justin taught me.

Having honesty, integrity, and empathy involved with every leadership decision we make is an example of how the Rule of Three works.