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.

Jenny Midgley | Content Marketing Strategist and Headshot & Brand Photographer for businesses, professionals and entrepreneurs

I used to think that work life balance had to be a true balance, that the scales always had to be even or I was doing something wrong. I spent years believing there was something “wrong” with me because I couldn’t seem to get things “right,” that I was always sacrificing one thing to be able to do another, like staying late at work meant I was not present for my kids or having to stay home with a sick child meant I was letting someone down at work. Read more>>

Shawny / Humlao Evans | Interdisciplinary Artist

This is a very interesting question. In all truth, I’d have to say that COVID-19 really forced my life to find balance. Prior to pandemic, I was on that extreme hustle going from job to job to gig to gig daily. I was used to juggling multiple projects at all times, working 7 days a week in both morning and evenings just to feel like I was being productive enough.  Read more>>

Keith P. Rein | Illustrator, Graphic Designer, & Curator

Work/Life Balance: what’s that again? I think the balance between work & life is about being mindful of your needs & understanding the balance will always be in motion. When I was younger and just starting my careers in illustration & graphic design, my balance was full tilt, work heavy. In order to promote my work, I was taking on every job that came across my desk Read more>>

Tarus Godbolt | Professional Photographer

I find that I have to be intentional in regards to keeping a healthy work/life balance. When I start a business, I tend to get consumed by it and work continuously to get it off the ground. If I’m not careful, I can easily get lost in my work and my husbandly and fatherly duties could get neglected. With that in mind, I try to make sure to maintain balance. Read more>>

Morgan Howard | Owner of Truly Booked Accounting

I have been forced to maintain a balance as my business grows. I’ve always tried to do everything and do it alone, but as time goes on and my business grows I have been forced to recognize the importance of having balance. Without it my work ethic, my business and I suffer. Read more>>

THEA WASHINGTON | Casting Director & Casting Producer

Work life balance is almost a myth to me lol However, I do my best to keep balance by creating boundaries with actors and clients. I unapologetically will let people know not to call me too late (unless there is an emergency for an early shoot the next day) or not to call on weekends or I’ll nicely direct them to email me so I can follow up during business hours. Read more>>

Katrina Rivera | Owner & Creator

I used to work the typical “9-5” for a very long time. And I was O.K. with that, for the time being. Everyone knows it’s not really 9-5. You have to get enough sleep to wake up with enough time to eat, get dressed, and if you’re especially vigorous, throw in that extra time for a work out and a shower because you know for sure you WILL NOT do it after work. Then the commute! Oh the drive there… it’s something serious. Read more>>

Shahedah Williams | Fashion Designer & President and Founder of Prom Scholar

I’m currently in a place where I’m willing to work so much harder than every. I’m currently working two jobs to help fund the rebranding of my business. I’m learning about the importance of clocking in as a business owner and taking the time to be more structured. Read more>>