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?

Francesca Bleys | Bakery Owner/Manager

Work life balance is always a difficult thing to manage, but especially when owning your own business; It feels like you’re on the clock 24/7. Therefore, I have been trying to make the conscious effort for social things as well as time for myself. In the beginning, I tried to do everything for everyone at the bakery only to realize that it was at my expense. At a certain point I understood that my longevity was more important than taking someone’s last minute request causing me to work super late/early. It only leads to stress and anxiety as the hours took a toll on my body. Rather than thinking I should probably make time for a life outside of work, I now understand that it is NEEDED. I’m sure everyone can agree that work will always be there but our mental/physical health isn’t always at peak performance. It is a path that took a while to understand, but eventually will be reached. Read more>>

Jani Lewis | Non-profit Executive Director

When I was younger, family came first – work second. Then as my children grew and were gone to school during the day, my time shifted. After my kids left the home, work became my primary focus. Read more>>

Dr. Heather Henley | Counseling Psychology

My work life balance has shifted tremendously. In the beginning, my focus was on proving the social constructs wrong who doubted my abilities. I was an African American woman, a native of Gary Indiana, pregnant out of wedlock raising two children from two different fathers in the late 90’s. I believed the statistics were stacked against me. I worked fifty hours a week, attended school, cared for my children to the best of my ability while neglecting all my responsibilities. It is only now that I have retired and experienced a failed marriage, that I see the thinking distortion connected to my belief system. The truth is…, it is about the R.U.N. resolving umbrageous natures! We must make a commitment to cultivate understanding, empathy and open communication. I had to break down shadows of misunderstanding to create healthier stronger relationships in my community and family to maintain the balance! I am still on the R.U.N. Read more>>