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.

Josh Alballero | Founder & Startup Mentor

I’ve always loved working. Even at a young age, I preferred working over going to school. I believe hard work brings you success. However, over time, I have seen the importance of also focusing on self and family, especially with my kids. With kids, my priorities shifted. It pushed me to learn how to get more done in less time (working smarter, not harder) and in the process I have learned that I can get more done working less hours than I do working more hours. Read more>>

Tro’juan Henderson | Poet. Teaching Artist. Photographer.

I know we often hear this saying “if you do what you love it’ll never feel like work”..and that’s not necessarily true. It’s love but it’s also labor, and sometimes I need to step away. Sometimes I need to decline a gig for rest, that balance is necessary. Or before you know it you’ll be so burnt out that when your stars do align you’re not in a position to receive or be present for it. Read more>>

Donny Spencer | Artist

Work life balance is monumental in overall happiness for my family and I. The little things like collecting eggs from our chicken coop alongside my wife and son, are just far too important to miss out on. When I was starting out, my inclination was to plan on huge chunks of working hours without stopping, causing me to miss more of these moments. Now I know it’s far better to plan out smaller, more consistent, blocks of time for work, and intentionally sacrifice habits that are less important. This is a work in progress (art pun intended here) for me and I am always striving to make the most of my time. Read more>>