What’s the right balance between work and non-work time? The traditional 9-5 has slowly disappeared with the emails and zoom and texting going far beyond traditional business hours. We asked members of our community to share with us how they think about work-life balance.

Chelsea Dang | Hair Extension Artist & Dimensional Color Specialist

Authenticity. I think your integrity as a person is everything. Because why would you want to be anyone else? Why would you promise something and underdeliver? I think it’s safe to say that social media contributes to a lot of imposter syndrome and comparison but there’s so much more than meets the eye. Every person has a different definition of success. I came from humble beginnings and have been independent from an early age, it made me learn intention early. The money comes and goes; people come and go with it. You can be super “successful” but what’s the point if you’re alone. Read more>>

Grady Olson | Managing Editor and Writer

Oh, success sounds weird to me but behind being able to do what you love for a living? Just don’t lean too much into what/how other people are doing around you and don’t be afraid to be yourself. This took me a long time to figure out. Which I somewhat regret but also appreciate. When I was younger living in San Francisco I would get so caught up with what other people my age were doing and how they could afford these nice apartments, trips to Europe, or even buying dinner for everyone. It would eat me alive. And it sucks, cuz I wish I didn’t feel that way, but I’ve learned to realize it doesn’t really matter. Read more>>

Danny Zavala | Artist, Founder of Stein’s Hollow Art Gallery, & Vice Chairman of Cultural Arts Commission

I believe the most important factor is having a strong foundation of support from my family and loved ones. Without it, the slightest inconvenience would make it crumble. Also, believing in oneself and being your own number one fan is important because even with all the support around you, at the end of the day, it’s just you and your dream. You are the only one who can see your dream come to fruition, so you must believe in yourself and not let anything put you down. Last but not least, staying motivated and hungry for knowledge, learning how to make improvements and see what you can do to fix it. Read more>>

Liz Castañeda | Baker & Cookie Artist

I think much of the success of my brand is owed to my commitment to quality from start to finish. I only use the highest quality ingredients to deliver an absolutely delicious tasting cookie. Having beautiful, custom designs that are artistically special is equally important to me. I love to include delicate and tiny details that make cookies feel special or more personal, even if it takes more time. All my products are packaged with hand tied bows in beautiful bakery boxes with matching ribbon. My customers rely on me to help them celebrate some of life’s most special occasions and I want them to feel the meticulous care in every step of bringing their vision to life. Read more>>

Sheena Langub | Botanical Artist

Rooted Harmony has benefited greatly from the love and support of my family and friends. And ultimately, its success is derived from my story. Because my story makes Rooted Harmony more than just a business, it is who I am. Art always surrounded me. I was exposed to the art of both gardening and music. My parents had full-time occupations and artistry in our home was used as a form of self-care. My mother always nurtured and cared for her garden, and my father used the art of music as a method of healing and expression. The art of floral designing became my own method of expression. Read more>>