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.

Natalie MacLees | Accessibility-focused front end developer

When I first started working for myself 10 years ago, I didn’t know any better, so I just went flat-out at building up my business. I didn’t say no to anyone or turn down any work. I’d get out of bed and sit at the computer right away. I’d still be in my pajamas and I wouldn’t have brushed my teeth or combed my hair or washed my face or eaten breakfast. I’d just sit like that, until my blood sugar would get so low, my hands would shake when I was trying to type. At that point, usually around 3 or 4 in the afternoon, I’d take a break for an hour or so to eat and shower and get dressed. But then I’d be right back at the computer until I couldn’t keep my eyes open any longer and I’d head to bed. Read more>>

Carrie Harkin | Personal Stylist

Ah work life balance, it’s a hot topic, particularly in our culture right now. I believe balance is a deeply personal endeavor and it looks different for everyone. I say endeavor because it’s a journey and takes different shapes in various parts of our lives. Some people are able to grasp the idea and achieve it sooner than others. I’m definitely a later bloomer when it comes to work life balance. When I started my fashion career in New York City, over 15 years ago, the concept of work life balance wasn’t even in my realm of consideration. Read more>>

Kristen Leanne | Cruelty-Free Content Creator and Entrepreneur

My work/life balance has always been a lot more work than life I would say. I have always been determined to create and run my own business and anyone who has done this know that it’s a 24 hour a day job! However when I gained some momentum on youtube, I was working the same if not more, BUT because of the wonderful events I was able to go to and brand trips, it really made work feel more like an amazing vacation I got to go on, which I am so grateful for! Read more>>

Shay Bachelder | Licensed Tax Consultant and Enrolled Agent

I think work life balance is so important for our mental and physical health. Sometimes being self-employed, or owning a business, can become more than a full time job. It is up to us to know our limits, our worth, and put our priorities in the right places – for us as individuals… and that’s going to be different for everyone. For me, owning my own business has allowed me the flexibility to be home with my kids over the years and has given us the freedom travel and experience lifestyles and cultures different than our own. Read more>>

Karla Cordero | Award-Winning Published Poet, Storyteller, College Professor, Community Organizer, Organic Backyard Farmer

Balance is such an athletic word. I think about an acrobat or an olympic gymnast, but isn’t that who we all are in our daily lives. Learning how to walk along the tight rope or balance beam of life. And the tight rope or beam gets thinner on some days, or a gust of wind wants to push you down, or sometimes you can’t even see where you’re going. All this to say, I’m a poet who loves using metaphors to understand the world, in this case balance. Read more>>

Jazlyn Rich | DJ J.RICH

Balance can be such a hard thing at times if you’re a person like me. Which is ironic being that I’m a Libra & our symbol is the scale. My balance has always been somewhat everywhere lately now that things are getting busier and busier & my time is being utilized more & more with events, along with other social aspects. I’m the type of person who wants to have my hand a part of everything. For instance, if there’s anyone that needs help with their social media or content, I’ll offer my assistance. Read more>>