A host of factors, developments, and dynamics have made most industries more competitive than ever. As a result so many of us wonder whether there is still such a thing as work-life balance. We reached out to the community to hear perspectives on finding the right balance.

Laney Baby | Fine Artist, Muralist, Entrepreneur

Taking risks is everything. You don’t grow without stepping out of your comfort zone. Risk taking is scary, especially when you’re new to it. I used to be so afraid to put myself out there, to go for things. But once you start transforming your mindset and believing in yourself, you see that taking action isn’t as scary in real life as it is in your head. Start small and remind yourself that you’ll be okay regardless of the outcome. Read more>>

Sami Hupp NDTR | Dietetic Technician,Registered

Over the years, the concept of work-life balance has evolved significantly. Personally, I’ve embraced this evolution by implementing structured time management practices. Evening hours are dedicated to social media planning, acknowledging its integral role in modern business outreach. Equally important is the conscious decision to disconnect, prioritizing quality family time by putting my phone away. Moreover, I’ve optimized productivity by scheduling client appointments during specific times in the day, ensuring focused attention and efficiency. This adaptive approach has allowed me to navigate the changing dynamics of work-life balance, fostering both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Read more>>

Alex Lee Wells | Abstract Artist & Photographer

Over the past few years, the balance between work, life, and everything else has shifted heavily in favor of work. These days I don’t have nearly as much time or mental energy to devote to passion projects as I would like to have. There’s really no balance in it at all. My life right now is 90-95% working, and what’s left I have to figure out how to divide between the things I want/need, and some days I just don’t figure that out. It’s an unfortunate side effect of living and working in this country that’s often difficult to navigate. Read more>>

Jay Mattlin | REALTOR® & Agent Success Manager, Key Realty

Work life balance has not ever been a consideration in my life until the COVID-19 Pandemic. I grew up knowing that when I was an adult, work was the most important thing and all other things came next. So as an adult, I worked. All the time. With no breaks. At the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic, I was working as the Systems Administrator for Fairfield County, Ohio. I had also been building a successful real estate business. Being in charge of all of the technology for an entire government entity at the beginning of a pandemic was stressful to say the least. I was already working 50-60 hours a week and then add in the new need for 1,000+ employees to work from home. Read more>>

Alisha Turner | Business Owner & Educator

Over time my work-life balance has become more of a priority for the sake of my family, marriage, and self. I’m constantly trying to find balance in all aspects but I feel like balancing professional responsibilities and personal responsibilities can be a daunting goal. I think of work-life balance as a give and take relationship in a tug-of-war style. It’s a competition of time. When I give to my work schedule I take from my personal schedule. And vise versa. It’s not just a matter of, “Do I extend my hours this week so I can get this client in?” It’s a matter of, “If I’m coming in an extra hour early will I have time to get the sleep and nutrition I need?” Or maybe it’s a question of, “Do I reschedule everyone from today so I can stay home with the kids while they’re sick?” But the real question is, “Do I take from my work load to give to my family duties?” Read more>>