We had the good fortune of connecting with JP Kouri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi JP, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
This question has always been very interesting for me to answer as I have never had a “9-5” or worked a corporate job. I have always made my own schedule and therefore delegated my own balance. I prioritize happiness and life over work and money, the balance for me is not only in free time and vacations but in choosing jobs that also bring me joy. If your work doesn’t light your soul on fire and bring you joy, what is the point?

Looking at the corporate world’s work/life balance I would suggest that the common worker putting in 40+ hours a week has a balance of 80/20 work to life. As someone who prioritizes life over work, I would even say that 50/50 is still too much work. By finding a “job” that is simultaneously something we are passionate about we reduce the work side of the equation by finding life and pleasure in the tasks that also fund more life.

What we consider balance is however very dependent on what we as individuals prioritize in life, I choose to prioritize creating, adventuring, and enjoying the human experience over wealth and material things.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think one major factor in my success and something that I had to learn through practice is sticking to projects and jobs that I am passionate about. Working with people and companies that I enjoy helps keep me motivated to continue to create.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Due to the nature of my work and lifestyle, I travel almost full time and I typically don’t stay in one place too long. When I am spending time in SoCal I frequent San Diego and Orange County. So if a friend visits from out of state I would take them to the beach, spend some time surfing, rock climbing, and find local burrito places and breweries.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While I have had success pushing and teaching myself to grow none of it would be possible without the love and support of family and friends and the trust that my clientele put in me.

Website: https://www.instagram.com/whentonext/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jpkouri/

Image Credits
Sarah Schlosberg, Teagan Maddux, Mike Barr

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.