Make 3 your default

Why make 3 your default? Three is a powerful number that makes it easier for us to understand and recall information. Three is balanced and substantive, without being overwhelming.

In the most recent Talk About Talk episode, I highlighted examples and benefits of the number 3.

Image by hakan istemi from Getty Images

MAKE 3 YOUR DEFAULT

Whenever I’m creating new content (and let me tell you, between my podcasts, newsletters, workshops, and courses, it’s A LOT of content), I always make 3 as my default.

Whenever I wonder, “How many?” I start with 3.

Will it always work? No, of course not. Sometimes all you need is 1 or 2, and sometimes 3 isn’t enough. But often, 3 is exactly right.

And don’t forget the 3 X 3 method. Sometimes three might not be enough, but three groups of three is perfect.

WHEN TO USE THE POWER OF 3 IN YOUR COMMUNICATION

If you’ve been a Talk About Talk listener for a while you may have heard me reference the book “Talk Like Ted” by communication expert Carmine Gallo. I checked the table of contents, and sure enough, it uses the 3 X 3 method. Three sections, each with three chapters.

Another great example of using the power of 3 is Adam Grant’s book, “Think Again,” which organizes the chapters into three sections.

This is no accident. Communicating in 3s is effective.

YOU can use the Power of 3 when you’re:

✅ Categorizing (3 types)
✅ Listing or highlighting (3 takeaways)
✅ Telling a story (3 characters, 3 settings or 3 storylines)
✅ Wielding influence (3 reasons)
✅ Creating a ranking (top 3)
✅ Building a framework (3 steps)
✅ Making a sales pitch (3 benefits)
✅ Creating a meeting agenda (3 topics)