February 2026 Newsletter
If your organization feels like it’s changing faster than your ability to catch up, you’re not imagining it. Since the start of 2026, many coaching conversations I’m having are centered on intensifying change churn: evolving Gen AI expectations, shifting priorities, new org. structures, and “do more with less” pressure. The most common underlying sentiment? Overwhelm, that is not from lack of capability, but from too many competing demands and a constant sense of urgency.
Here’s what I’m seeing in high-performing leaders right now: the ones who thrive aren’t trying to “manage everything.” They’re getting disciplined about how they choose focus and how they communicate it.
Here is a quick reset: The 3-question focus.
When everything feels urgent, run decisions and requests through these three questions:
What outcome are we truly driving? (Name the business result, not the activity.)
What is the one priority that makes other work easier or unnecessary? (The leverage move.)
What are we intentionally not doing right now? (The boundary that protects execution.)
This is where leadership becomes visible: not in doing more but in deciding better.
February 17, 2026 is Chinese New Year : Year of the Horse
The Year of the Horse often associated with fast-paced movement, high energy, growth, confidence, and a natural ability to connect with people.
That symbolism lands perfectly with my 2026 mantra: Connection. Strength. Breakthrough.
Connection: Build the relationships that help you move faster with people, not around them.
Strength: Protect your focus and energy because leadership stamina is a strategy.
Breakthrough: Choose courageous action over constant reaction.
If the pace is accelerating, consider this your reminder: you don’t need the world to slow down. You just need a clearer internal compass.
A few meaningful ways to stay connected and grow this year:
#IAmRemarkable Workshops, I will continue to volunteer my time to host on these dates in 2026.
You can now register in advance.
February 13
March 13
May 8
September 11
November 13
Innovate You Dialogues
I’m excited to share that first Innovate You Dialogues will be on
February 27, 2026 (Friday), 1:00pm -1:30pm
Distinctly You Leadership Lab - Early Career/Emerging Leaders
This is a one-day immersive leadership lab that is practical, interactive, and applied.
It’s designed for leaders who don’t want more theory… they want real tools, hands-on practice, and clear next steps they can use immediately at work.
Who is it for?: Aspiring leaders, Team leads, New Managers, Experienced Individual Contributors, Emerging leaders
Date: Thursday, Feb 19, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Studio 303, 401 Richmond Street West, Toronto
Register today: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1981554954210?aff=oddtdtcreator
Leaders, invest in your team's high performers to help them grow and achieve their 2026 goals.
For more information: https://distinctlyyouleadershiplabs.my.canva.site/2026
New: Group Coaching (now welcoming applications)
I’m also launching a group coaching experience. A space for leaders to learn, grow, and create breakthroughs together in an inclusive, supportive environment. If someone you know would benefit, feel free to share the application with them too.
Innovate You Group Coaching Application – Fill out form
Upcoming Events:
#IAmRemarkable Workshop
Click on the image to sign up today!
Speaking at Women in Tech Global Conference 2026 (Virtual)
👉 Secure your ticket before the early bird deadline ends on Feb 15: https://shop.womentech.net/products/all-access-vip-ticket
👉 Group discount: https://shop.womentech.net/collections/group-tickets
If you’re carrying “quiet overwhelm” behind high performance, you’re not alone.
If you want help creating focus, boundaries, and confident influence in a high-change environment,
Or ready to explore new possibilities of your leadership growth?
You’re not alone on this journey. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or finding your voice in the C-suite, you belong here.
✨ Schedule a Complimentary Discovery Call with Amy Au
Let’s explore how Innovate You can support your growth through coaching, connection, and community.
Booking inquiry for the following services:
1) Let’s co-create impactful moments
Hire me to speak at your event
Women in STEM Summit
Corporate events
Tech & Innovation Conferences
2) Custom workshops, including:
Fascinate® Workshop for Teams Learn more
Women in STEM Leadership topics
Self-Promotion Mastery (#IAmRemarkable volunteer Facilitator - Gold Tier)
3) Coaching Services - Custom packages
For Teams
For 1 on 1
Combination of Teams & 1 on 1
At Innovate You, we believe in creating positive impact for a brighter future, one leader at a time.
Together, we rise with courage, clarity, and connection.
Let’s innovate you.
Wishing you a month filled with inspiration, growth, and bold moves forward!
International Best-selling book, Evolution of Leadership in STEM - women catalyzing change
International Best-selling book, Evolution of Leadership in STEM - women catalyzing change
Click on image to order your copy.
Connect with Amy Au for empowering insights and transformative leadership strategies.
LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram
via email amy@innovateyou.ca
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