Anchor in Intention

Jennifer McIntyre

8/31/20261 min read

How often do we move from one meeting or conversation to the next without stopping to think about how we want to show up?

We prepare the presentation. Review the numbers. Think about what we need to say.

But some of the most important preparation we can do as leaders has nothing to do with the agenda.

Before an important meeting or conversation, especially a difficult one, pause and establish two anchors:

1. What is my desired outcome?
When this conversation is over, what do I hope we've accomplished?

2. How do I want to show up?
What do I want others to experience from me?

Maybe you need to deliver a difficult message while still ensuring someone feels respected.

Maybe you need to hold someone accountable while demonstrating that you believe in them.

Maybe you strongly disagree, and still want the other person to feel heard.

Being intentional doesn't mean avoiding the hard thing. It means choosing how you want to lead through it.

Then, go in curious.

Ask. Listen. Stay open.

Don't become so focused on delivering your message that you miss the conversation that's actually happening.

And if things get tense or you find yourself drifting, come back to your anchors:

What am I trying to accomplish?
How did I want to show up?

Your intention isn't a script. It's an anchor.

Before your next important conversation, give yourself five minutes to establish yours.

Anchor in intention. Lead boldly.

CONTACt

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