Discovering the Power of Attitude Anchors

I recently had a fantastic session on wellbeing coaching and a concept I hold dear called attitude anchors. I wanted to share some insights and personal experiences that highlight how these tools can dramatically improve both our professional and personal lives.

As a coach, I often encounter leaders who assume they need coaching solely on traditional leadership topics like conflict management or strategic planning. While these areas are crucial, I’ve found that the foundation of effective leadership often lies in a leader’s personal wellbeing and work-life integration.

Through my work with dozens and dozens of high-performing leaders, I’ve seen a common trend: those who excel in their careers are just as dedicated to their personal lives. It’s not always a 50-50 split between work and life, but high performers generally find a satisfying balance that fuels their success in both realms. They focus on wellbeing goals, encompassing physical, emotional, and community aspects, creating a reciprocal relationship where energy from one area feeds the other.

One common thread between high-performing leaders is something called attitude anchors, a concept made popular by customer service expert Jeff Toister.

The Concept of Attitude Anchors

One of the key ideas I emphasize in my coaching is the concept of attitude anchors. These are practices in your personal life that bolster your professional life and overall wellbeing. Think of it as setting firm foundations that keep you steady no matter what waves hit you at work.

For example, let’s take the inspiring story of Arianna Huffington, who once collapsed from exhaustion due to her relentless work schedule. This wake-up call led her to prioritize sleep, and now she’s an advocate for work-life balance and adequate rest. Like Arianna, I’ve realized that sleep is non-negotiable for me. I need 7 to 8 hours a night to function optimally, though I sometimes push through on less when necessary. But for the most part, I adhere to the 90-10 rule: 90% of the time, I stick to my ideal sleep schedule, while the other 10% allows for some flexibility. 

Unplugging and Exercising: My Go-To Anchors

Another crucial attitude anchor for me is taking time to unplug and focus on activities unrelated to work. For me, this often involves exercise. I aim to engage in rigorous physical activity three to four times a week, whether it’s hitting the gym or going for a run. On days when a full workout isn’t possible, I still strive to get at least 10,000 steps or 30 minutes of movement. This not only keeps me physically fit but also provides a mental break from work and other obligations.

Family Time and Gratitude: Anchoring My Day

Family time is another essential anchor for me. Every evening, I make sure to disconnect from all devices and spend quality time with my family. One of the most special times for me during the day is having dinner with the family. These moments recharge my batteries and keep me grounded.

I also incorporate a gratitude practice into my routine. Each morning, as I plan my day, I take a moment to write down something I’m grateful for. This simple act sets a positive tone for the day and helps me start from a place of abundance rather than stress.

Why Attitude Anchors Matter

Attitude anchors are about more than just feeling good; they help maintain a consistent and positive mindset, which is crucial for effective leadership. We’ve all encountered leaders who are unpredictable, whose mood can sway from one extreme to another. Such inconsistency can drain a team’s energy and morale. By establishing strong attitude anchors, leaders can ensure they show up as their best selves, creating a stable and supportive environment for their teams.

Prioritizing What Matters

I’ll be honest, when life gets hectic, these wellbeing practices are often the first to come to mind to get cut from my schedule. It’s easy to think they’re expendable, but in reality, they’re the most critical aspects of maintaining balance and productivity. During particularly demanding times, I prioritize which anchors are non-negotiable and find creative ways to incorporate them into my day, even if it’s just a quick 15-minute walk while responding to emails.

In conclusion, by integrating wellbeing practices and attitude anchors into our lives, we can lead more effectively and live more fulfilling lives. I encourage you to identify your own attitude anchors and make them a priority. They’re not just nice-to-haves; they’re essential for thriving both at work and at home.

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with attitude anchors in the comments. I’d love to hear what works for you!