When you have the opportunity to ask some of the most interesting people in the world about their lives, sometimes the most fascinating answers come from the simplest questions. The Thrive Questionnaire is an ongoing series that gives an intimate look inside the lives of some of the world’s most successful people.
Anastasia Seebohm is deeply dedicated to inspiring others. As the Global CEO of Quintessentially, a lifestyle management concierge and service company, she serves as a mentor to young women in business, and leads her company’s philanthropic endeavors. Dubbed the “The Queen of Luxury” by Forbes, Seebohm has a special admiration for thoughtfully designed experiences and spaces- but she admits that she hasn’t always treated her own body so luxuriously. Seebohm says that up until 12 months ago, she would wake up to a cigarette, caffeine, and an overwhelming inbox. It didn’t take long before that morning routine caught up to her. After falling ill, Seebohm knew she needed a change. She set out to prioritize her health and happiness, and began exploring new methods like meditation and setting technological boundaries. Seebohm’s focus on breaking free from her usual routine has paid off. “I’ve never felt better, physically and emotionally,” she says. She is now reaping the benefits in all areas of her life, becoming a more present leader and loved one. Creating true change is a commitment, and sometimes a real struggle. But it’s possible, and Seebohm’s transformation is a prime example of that.
In her Thrive Questionnaire, Seebohm reveals her newfound love of morning routines, and highlights the importance of human connection.
Thrive Global: What’s the first thing you do when you get out of bed?
Annastasia Seebohm: Stretch for a couple of minutes, light my Rose Diptyque candle, meditate with the Calm app, use my dry body brush, make a smoothie, and then check my phone. 12 months ago, this routine would have entailed wake up, check my email, have a cigarette, then a double espresso, and another cigarette whilst replying to all emails straight away.
TG: What gives you energy?
AS: Inspiring conversations with curious and interesting people, traveling, seeing new places, and trying new experiences
TG: What daily habit or practice helps you thrive?
AS: Mediation keeps me calm and centered. Also walking my dog Bertie.
TG: Name a book that changed your life.
AS: The Fountainhead – a book that runs the whole gamut of emotions and makes you realize that man can be as great as he wants to be. In business, Scaling Up by Verne Harnish is a constant source of inspiration
TG: Tell us about your relationship with your phone. Does it sleep with you?
AS: My bedroom is now a firmly phone-free zone. It wasn’t always this way, but ensuring I fully switch off before bed, and have proper time to decompress has made a world of difference.
TG: How do you deal with email?
AS: I try and respond in a timely manner, and always action what I’ve said I will do. Our business is built on human relationships, and it is always important to follow through and maintain trust with consistent and transparent communication.
TG: How do you prioritize when you have an overwhelming amount to do?
AS: I am lucky that I have the most amazing EA and great team to support me. I always have to-do lists and always try to tackle the most pressing and difficult tasks first. I am not afraid to delegate. It’s important to have focus, so while I maintain an open door practice in the office, I will work off-site when I need to, and encourage the team to do the same.
TG: You unexpectedly find 15 minutes in your day; what do you do with it?
AS: I phone a family member or send messages to loved ones.
TG: When was the last time you felt burned out and why?
AS: I had a very intense schedule this past summer and failed to look after my health, so I ended up unwell. I didn’t feel burned out but it definitely made me address my health as a priority.
TG: When was the last time you felt you failed and how did you overcome it?
AS: It was not listening to my body when I fell ill during the summer. It made me take stock of my situation; I can’t be an effective leader without being at my best and taking care of myself. I implemented changes, from diet to exercise and sleep, and taking time to pursue my passions, from travel to art exhibitions – and I’ve never felt better, physically and emotionally.
TG: What advice would you give your younger self?
AS: Meditate! Meditate! Meditate! Call your family regularly – nothing is more important than your loved ones, so make time for them whenever you possibly can.
TG: Share a quote that you love and that gives you strength or peace.
AS: My grandfather always told me, “Money you can make and lose and make again, it’s time you have but once.” For me, life is all about time, treasuring my family, friends, and new experiences, and making the most of every day.
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