By far the most common conversation we have with the folks we interview is about work-life balance. Starting a business or pursuing a creative career makes finding work life balance really tough because there is no clear start and end to one’s work day. We’ve shared some of our conversations on the topic below.

Tiffany Huisenga | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

It’s still a work-in-progress and changes often! But it’s changed in that I’ve learned not to compare myself to others. Work-life balance is different for everyone. I have 2 businesses: my own graphic design company, and State 38 Co., which is a small online shop that sells Colorado-themed t-shirts. With both, I’ve had to figure out things as I go. It’s helpful to see what others in my field are doing, but I often fall into the trap of comparison. In the beginning, I’d wonder if I was doing things “right.” I would see other designers who are super productive and prolific, who worked late into the evenings and always seemed to be focusing on their craft. Read more>>

Crystal Rose Smith | Portrait & Lifestyle Photographer

My work life balance has changed dramatically since I started my business in 2011. I would say yes to every job that came my way, I would be editing until 1 in the morning or respond to emails while at dinner. My sleep, social life and relationships all suffered because of this. To be honest, my photography business was also suffering. I may have felt that I was successful because I was so busy and had tons much work, but it was slowly draining my love and passion for what I do. I had less energy to put into every shoot, and I felt so bad about it. I didn’t want my clients to get anything less than they deserved. It wasn’t easy to transition out of the habits that I had formed by hustling 24/7 for so long, but it has been worth it. I have set boundaries for my business and really try my best to only work during “work hours”. Read more>>

Alexander Chriest | Dr. Alexander Chriest, Co-Founder IMPACT Human Performance

Work life balance is a phrase that is often thrown out by our corporate partners. I believe that the phrase sets unrealistic expectations; it leads to the thought that there can be this perfect balance between work and life. Unfortunately, work and life are very integrated. Earlier in my career, I focused a lot on hours worked rather than quality of work. This led to me staying in the office much later than I needed to. As I have moved along in my career, I have strived to live into my passions and what is most important to me. Read more>>

Grace Kuch | Musician

Work-life balance is something I have only begun to understand. As a young, rising artist, music is my identity. It is who I am and what I do. I did not know what life would be without it. In this last year, I realized that as the world of music stopped, forced change can bring silver linings. I was saddened by the lack of musical opportunities available to us all but the time away from gigs allowed me to step away from the regular responsibility I have been holding with my music business most of my life. I was able to enjoy time with my friends and family, and center myself as an artist and human being. Read more>>

Nancy Blanchard | Brand/Marketing Executive turned Real Estate Agent

I LOVE this subject…. the idea of work/life balance is one that is discussed, debated, debunked and overplayed almost every day. I can’t count how many articles I’ve seen that aim to provide solid working principles that will for once, allow you to have the balance in your life that we all strive for. There are articles in lifestyle magazines and reputable publications like Harvard Business Review – people can not get enough of this subject. For me, work/life balance is really just LIFE balance. I think about what I need to be happy, feel fulfilled, reduce stress – and I carve out time for it all. Read more>>