Organizational culture is driven by leadership that is living proof of best corporate behaviors. In this era of integrated personal and professional lifestyles, remaining sharp—physically, psychologically, emotionally—is critical for success. I use a combination of routines for physical activity, periods of personal reflection with mindfulness practices, and a coupling of avocation activity with socializing among family and friends. I also step away from electronics and digital devices.

—Peter Angood, M.D., President & CEO, American Association for Physician Leadership, Tampa, Florida. 

I devote time away from work every day to exercise, pet my two cats, talk to friends and family, and take bubble baths. For longer breaks, I recharge by totally changing environments and spending time in Paris speaking a different language and being surrounded by different stimuli. All this leads to a fresh approach and mental acuity.

—Debra Wentz, Ph.D., President & CEO, New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies, Inc., Trenton, New Jersey

During a stressful time at work, a trusted colleague asked, “How do you take care of yourself?” When I hesitated before answering, he pointed out that as CEO, I am a resource of the association, and taking care of myself is a legitimate part of the job. This simple statement made me more comfortable scheduling time for what I need to stay healthy. I work out with a trainer to keep my body and mind moving, and I play video games to keep my mind sharp.

—Mary Jane Cobb, CAE, Executive Director, Iowa State Education Association, Des Moines, Iowa

I practice hot yoga three to four times a week, which provides a cardio benefit as well as mindfulness, both of which are shown to be good for brain health and mental acuity. On my non-yoga days, I do some form of cardio, either elliptical or cycling. And I’ve started meditating—for just 10 minutes—using an app called Headspace.

—Kate Penn, CEO, Society of American Florists, Alexandria, Virginia