24 hours in a day, 168 hours in a week. Junior investment bankers regularly work 80-90 hours a week. Many other high profile professions require the same level of commitment. Often those on the outside claim that working 80-90 hours a week is bad/wrong/terrible/silly/etc but we’ve spoken with so many folks who say working that much has been the best decision of their life – it allowed them to develop a deep and strong skill set far faster than would have been possible otherwise. In other words, by working 2x the hours, they were able to generate 5x or more the rewards. And depending on where you are in your career, investing heavily in your skills and competence can pay dividends for a long time.

Rachel Magaña | Head Baker & Pastry Chef

I’ve always been that person who didn’t finish working until the work was done. I would work a full day in the kitchen alongside my team and then when they headed out, I’d head to my office to finish up my paperwork. It was normal for me to be the first one in and the last one out. When the holidays would come around (our busiest pie season) I would work ridiculous hours to make sure we always stayed on top of the orders flowing in quicker than we could keep up. This past year I became pregnant with my first child and had anxiety over how on Earth I would make it through the holidays 8 months pregnant and constantly on my feet. This was really when I had to make a shift and actually apply this concept of a work-life balance. It was something I would always encourage my team to do but never would put it into action for myself. Read more>>

Mel CK | Muralist and Illustrator

Before the summer started I quit my essential job being a paint maker. Went full freelance. I’ve been working a day job at a young age so it was a scary jump. Considering culturally in my family art is not considered a livable job choice. But depending on my art is less stressful. More independent work. However it has it’s downfalls. Sometimes you have work and sometimes you don’t. So I do delivery to help the gaps in slow months. Read more>>

Priscila Peters | Broker Owner/Realtor

My view on balance has changed. As I got older, I understood that a balanced life between work and personal isn’t a luxury, but truly a necessity. I’ve put in a lot of work to change this limiting concept. I was raised to be my best, do the work and never give up! Which is a blessing, however I realized that things can get done while taking care of yourself. I’d never allow myself to take coffee breaks, take a walk or take a day for myself because I never even stopped to think of my needs. I was always focused on my next move professionally. Now specially, after being a mom, I’m also focused on my kid and motherhood life. So, I do believe a little time to check in with myself throughout the day by going for a hike or a bike ride with my son is a must! It is one of the keys to keep you healthy, happy and balanced! Read more>>

Lindsey Marcelli | Entrepreneur

My work balance has shifted drastically since having a little girl in 2018. Now I prioritize my work schedule around her schedule as does my husband. Luckily, it all works out since she is a great sleeper, haha. We prioritize family first and always have, but now we focus on spending more time during the day as a family. I love the current life/work schedule. Read more>>

Talia Swartz Parsell | Visual Artist & Educator

Work life balance is everything right now with Covid-19! Being a mama to two rambunctious little boys who have been home with me a lot since school has shut down means I have had to reconsider how to get my work time in while taking care of them. Having my art studio at home has both helped and hurt with this balance. Sometimes I feel as though my work life and home life need more separation so I can truly focus and get in the zone. But its also been great during Covid because I can jump in my studio and get some painting done anytime the boys are napping or when I can snag a sitter for a few hours. My personal and social time has also lessened and gotten weird with Covid-19 and its made me really evaluate my relationships and how I want to spend any free time I may have. Read more>>

Kimberly Fisher | Brand Ambassador & Lifestyle Expert

I think with COVID and spending so much time at home, you really have to focus on having a balance. It’s very easy to work non-stop, and ignore self care and making time for family, friends, connection and hobbies. I make sure I schedule “Me Time”. I carve out time for daily meditation, some kind of movement, reading and writing. Read more>>