The Coronavirus has given many us an opportunity to pause and think about life, our purpose, and even the right work life balance. What’s your perspective and has it changed over time?

Jen Phillips | Owner, Gracey Lane Farm and Gallery

Having balance has always been a huge priority for me. In the past it was significantly easier to find a good balance professionally, personally, mentally and physically. As each one of us have experienced the effects of Covid in our own way. Our daily lives have been significantly altered and finding the balance is a real struggle. I have a business, a small farm and a household to run while having an elementary, middle-school and high school student at home right now. It’s a matter of survival. More balance is needed, and it is a work-in-progress. However, in the midst of it all, understanding that it can only be through balance that we strive and succeed. I am currently inching my way back into a balanced life. The way I am doing that is actually by not just powering through what needs to be done, but by taking small mental breaks throughout the day to pause and think. To allow my mind to reset. This gives me time to release and time to be thoughtful. creative, to know what to do next and most importantly to know what to let go. Read more>>

Avia Rose Ramm | Painter

I use to not put too much thought into balancing all aspects of my life. Pre-pandemic and while I was in school my priorities were painting, my retail job, and partying. When we went into lockdown, I was forced to have a lot of free time and came to the realization I had to integrate more balance into my life. My life was all work and when I wasn’t working I was socializing, just thinking about having no quiet time or moments for myself now sounds exhausting. I learned the hard way I kept myself busy because I did not want to address my feelings or to work on myself. Today, I force myself to have a day off once a week where I don’t paint or think about art, which surprisingly is very hard because I love it. I’ve learned if you don’t give yourself a break your body will make one for you (example: to end the crummy year I ended up getting very sick on NYE because I was at the studio all day everyday…I’m still learning). For me balance is all about listening to your body, if I’m tired I will stop for the day, I go easy on myself, and make sure to make time for my other passions even if it’s as simple as going on a little hike. It’s surprising how much more clear your head gets even just going on a hike and giving your brain some time to breathe. Read more>>

Lisa Gilbert | Comedian/Actor

Work life balance is a must. I am a full time working mother of 9-year old triplets. I addition, I do comedy and just recently have taken up acting. I have to balace my work, kids and husband…of yeah and my own mental health through it all. I give my all to my family, but also make time for myself on a regular basis. In March 2020, I decided to retire from my full time job of 25 years to have more time with my husband and kids. This decission also gave me more time to do me! More time to act, do comedy and spend time with friends. Best thing I’ve done in a long time. Read more>>