The right mindset can completely transform your career, confidence, and peace of mind. After leading billion-dollar mergers and serving as Chief People Officer, I learned that success at work means nothing if it costs your life. Through the mindset tools I now teach in my coaching, I discovered how to rewire frustration, own my identity, and lead with calm power – on my terms.
Why This Matters Now
More leaders than ever are burning out. A 2024 Deloitte survey found that 77% of professionals report feeling exhausted at work, and 91% say unmanageable stress impacts the quality of their work.
In Austin—a city full of fast-growing startups, tech companies, and high-achieving professionals—the pressure to perform is constant. But success without inner peace isn’t real success
That’s where developing the 5% mindset comes in. It’s not about motivation—it’s about learning to think on purpose, so you can create the results you want at work and in life.
The 3 Key Mindset Shifts for Executives
Rewiring Frustration
What it is:
This shift starts with noticing your internal dialogue when things go wrong—whether it’s a delayed project, a missed email, or a chaotic meeting.
Why it works:
Most frustration comes from the belief that things *should* be easier. But when you replace “this shouldn’t be happening” with “this is my chance to grow calm in chaos,” your brain stops resisting and starts adapting.
How to apply it:
* When faced with an obstacle, pause and name your emotion.
* Ask: “What thought is fueling this feeling?”
* Replace it with something that creates calm capability.
Example: Instead of “This is stupid,” try “The mundane moves my career forward.”
Who benefits:
Executives and leaders managing constant pressure, especially those who thrive on efficiency but feel derailed by delays or imperfections.
Owning Your Identity
What it is:
Confidence doesn’t come from proving yourself to others—it comes from what you believe about yourself.
Why it works:
When I left the C-suite to start my coaching business, I struggled to own my new identity. I worried what people would think when I said, “I’m a coach.” But everything changed when I decided to reinforce a new thought:
“I’m a powerful executive coach. I help leaders increase their performance and their happiness.”
How to apply it:
* Define who you want to be (not who you’ve been).
* Write down one sentence that reflects that identity.
* Repeat it daily until it becomes your new truth.
Who benefits:
Leaders stepping into new roles, entrepreneurs transitioning from corporate life, and professionals seeking authentic confidence.
Creating Intentional Thoughts
What it is:
Intentional thought creation means noticing the thoughts you currently have that create your results—and choosing new ones that serve you better.
Why it works:
Your thoughts drive your emotions, your emotions drive your actions, and your actions drive your results. It’s neuroscience-backed transformation.
How to apply it:
* Write down one thing you’re avoiding (expense report, tough conversation, presentation).
* Identify your current thought (“This is pointless”).
* Replace it with a thought that serves your growth (“It might take longer, but I’m capable of following through”).
Who benefits:
Anyone ready to break cycles of frustration, self-doubt, or perfectionism.
Where does this exist:
This work is the foundation of the PH+ Formula and what we practice weekly in The 5% Club For Leaders Podcast.
In Austin, I work with executives across industries. From tech to health care – who are navigating fast-paced growth and personal reinvention. Whether they’re leading teams downtown or running global operations from home in Lakeway, the same truth applies: calm power is their competitive advantage.
When leaders adopt the 5% mindset, they find balance, confidence, and creativity. They show up in boardrooms and at home with the same grounded energy – and that’s what makes them stand out.
Common Questions
1. What exactly is an executive coaching mindset?
It’s the ability to think on purpose, manage your emotions, and create intentional results in your work and life.
2. How is this different from traditional leadership coaching?
Most leadership coaching focuses on skills and strategy. I focus on rewiring the thoughts and beliefs that drive behavior—because mindset comes before mastery.
3. Can mindset work really change how I perform at work?
Yes. Your thinking affects your confidence, communication, and decision-making. Leaders who practice intentional thinking lead with composure and clarity.
4. What if I’m not an executive yet?
These mindset tools apply at every level. Thinking like a leader *now* prepares you for your next role.
5. How long does it take to see results?
Most of my clients notice a difference in their energy and confidence within the first few weeks of applying these tools.
Quick Checklist: 30-Day Mindset Reset
* Identify 3 recurring thoughts that create stress or frustration.
* Write one new thought that serves you better.
* Practice it daily—especially in moments of pressure.
* Notice your feelings shift from anxious → calm → capable.
* Take one bold action each week from that new state.
Ready to rise to the top without burnout or overwhelm?
🎙 Listen to The 5% Club Podcast for weekly lessons, or join the waitlist for the pH+ Lab— my signature coaching program for leaders who want more money, less stress, and a life they love.
👉 Join Shayla King’s 5% club waitlist
About the Author
Shayla King is an executive coach and former Chief People Officer based in Austin, Texas. After leading global M&A and navigating her own near-death experience, she developed the Performance + Happiness (PH+) Formula to help leaders achieve success and fulfillment without burnout.
About Evolve Career Coaching
Evolve Career Coaching helps leaders and organizations elevate results through mindset mastery, executive development, and the PH+ Lab group coaching program. Based in Austin and serving clients globally, Shayla’s programs are designed to create high-performing, happy executives who love their whole lives.
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