By far the most common conversation we have with the folks we interview is about work-life balance. Starting a business or pursuing a creative career makes finding work life balance really tough because there is no clear start and end to one’s work day. We’ve shared some of our conversations on the topic below.

Nerissa Golden | Author & Business Strategist

Work life balance is a myth. By that I mean, you will never have every aspect of your life in perfect sync, with the ability to give an equal amount of time to each area. There are times as I raised my children alone that they needed to be given the priority in terms of time, energy, and finances. In other periods, my business was the priority. Knowing when to focus on the right aspect of your life in the time it is needed is what you must learn to do. Read more>>

Bridget B. Hawkins | Integrated Marketing Specialist & Strategist, Founder of Girl Social

The journey of maintaining a work-life balance has been a blend of roles: as the founder of Girl Social (a digital marketing agency), a mother to two blossoming young adults, and a dedicated wife of 27 years. Each role comes with its own set of demands, and finding harmony among them has been both a challenge and a learning experience. Read more>>

Daphanè Brown | Painter, drawing artist, and muralist.

I have a part-time job while also pursuing art. When I am not at work, I am creating art, thinking about art, and sketching. I think about art a lot. I think of how I could be better. I research ways to connect to new people and how to get my name out there as an artist. Somewhere in between that, I’m asleep and watching movies and anime. I think I’m doing good at balancing everything, but I could be better at doing so. Read more>>

Neal Papevies | Children’s book author, Business professional, Outdoor enthusiast.

Countless times I’ve been in mentoring/leadership groups listening to retired but very successful business men talking about how if they could change anything they would have been more present at home with their families. I’m doing my best to learn from their experience. Read more>>

Mel Alston | Youth Advocate & Entrepreneur

Work-life balance has fluctuated so much over different periods of time in the past couple years. Since speaking with you all last year, my business partner Monet Wright, and I were entering and adjusting to new career paths in our respective fields that were more aligned with our entrepreneurial endeavors. We are still actively learning how top-tier organizations operate. Read more>>

Jiquita Pitts | Cleaning Service Provide

My work life balance has changed dramatically. However, in such a great way! I, actually, appreciate the change so much; it was life changing. I went from being a mother and missing activities with my kids to being able to be there full-time for my children. It is a blessing to be able to go to school conferences, taking them to sport activities, etc., without the feeling of thinking I’m going to lose my job. I am able to set my own schedule, as needed and balance out the work and home life. Read more>>