Work-Life Harmony: Balancing Business, Family, and Self
Because something always matters more than everything.
Starting or running a business while raising a family isn’t just a balancing act—it’s more like spinning plates while cooking dinner, answering emails, and wiping a toddler’s face with your sleeve. And let’s be honest, balance isn’t the right word for it. Harmony is.
For me, family always comes first. But that doesn’t mean I’ve abandoned my goals. It just means I’ve learned how to prioritize wisely, shift my focus when needed, and give myself permission to be flexible. If you’re trying to grow something—whether it’s a business, a career, or a creative dream—without burning out or losing touch with what matters most, here’s how to find your rhythm.
Start with What Needs You Most
Think of your life like spinning plates. The hardest part isn’t keeping them going—it’s getting them to spin in the first place. Once your marriage is solid, it’s easier to stay connected. Once your business is running smoothly, it’s less stressful to maintain.
But you can’t spin them all at once.
So ask yourself honestly:
Which area of your life needs the most attention right now?
If your business is struggling to make ends meet, it’s okay to communicate with your family and pour your focus into getting it profitable. If you’re thriving professionally but feel distant from your kids, it may be time to ease up and reinvest in home life.
The key is to focus deeply on one area until it’s stable—then shift. This isn’t neglecting the rest of your life. It’s about building momentum where it matters most.
Stick to Your “Big Rocks”
No matter what’s demanding your attention this season, there are non-negotiables—your “big rocks”—that should stay protected.
These are the grounding routines that keep everything else from falling apart. For me, these include:
- A weekly date night (even if it’s just takeout after bedtime)
- Daily focused work blocks—no distractions, no multitasking
- Time outside or exercise a few days a week
- At least an hour of fully present time with my kids every day
These aren’t huge gestures. They’re intentional habits. They keep relationships strong and energy up, even during the busiest seasons. No matter which “plate” is spinning fastest, your big rocks keep the others from crashing.
Set Boundaries That Actually Work
Here’s the truth: we’re not overwhelmed because we’re doing too much. We’re overwhelmed because we’re doing too much at the same time.
One of the most powerful changes I made in my business and family life? Creating clear lines between the two. Work time is work time. Family time is sacred. That means:
- No checking emails at the dinner table
- No client calls during bedtime stories
- No texting my partner during work hours to vent about groceries (okay, still working on that one!)
If you treat both parts of your life like they matter—and give them focused time—they’ll both thrive. And honestly, everyone benefits from you being fully present wherever you are.
Give Yourself Grace (and Space)
Work-life harmony doesn’t mean perfect days. It means being clear on what matters, adjusting when you need to, and staying rooted in your values. Sometimes you’ll fall behind on your goals. Sometimes your kids will eat cereal for dinner. It’s okay.
Set realistic goals. Accept that not everything will get done at once. Don’t wait for perfect balance—just aim for progress.
Remember: your work matters, but your people matter more. And the most sustainable version of success is one that still lets you be the kind of parent, partner, and person you want to be.