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.

Michael DJ M DOT Hankerson | DJ

This is a question I’m asked constantly. Early on in my career I was extremely work driven, I worked at least 6 sometimes 7 days a week and didn’t think much of it. It was my happy place, my place of peace. A place where I felt most alive. I was in love with my career and consumed with checking off goal after goal one by one. From holding a full time radio show Monday through Friday, to nightclub gigs every Friday night, to Miami HEAT basketball games once or twice a week, to radio appearances two Saturday’s a month to FIU college football games on Saturday nights and hopping on a plane every two to three months for tour dates with Jamie Foxx. Read more>>

Suzanne Head | Artist

That’s been a big one for me. When I was younger I thought “It’s simple, I’ll just work harder than everyone else, and that will put me on top. I’m tough, I can handle it!” There were definitely people in my life that warned me about burn-out; but there were also those who thought the same way as me, and encouraged me to never take time off. Read more>>

Rustem Khakimov | Fine Art tattoo artist

I have been a workaholic throughout my whole life. I was taught that hard work is essential to achieving my goals. It was only recently that I learned how to find balance and manage my schedule without neglecting my well-being. When I first moved to the US, I took on any job I could find to support myself and my family. My main job was as a cook in a restaurant, but I also took on side jobs as a handyman, constructor, painter, and even did some housekeeping. I had a few interior design projects, but communication was difficult as I was not fluent in the language. Read more>>

Constance Ivana | Artist

My work life balance has changed drastically over the past 15 years. For so many years all I focused on was being a good mom and being the best teacher that I could be. I found moments of happiness but I was not fulfilled. My art career was jumpstarted when I took classes to become certified as an art teacher. I have always enjoyed creating but art became my lifeline and outlet as I navigated through trying times. Read more>>

RoseMarie Lewis | Crochet Fashion Designer and Fiber Artist

I’ve accepted that there isn’t a perfect work-life balance for me. Over time it’s been mostly a day to day process. Some days I don’t have any work at all and other days, I have to crochet in the car line while picking my kids up from school. I’ve found something that I love to do, and I enjoy everything about it. I have time to do things with my kids and I can take my work with me. Even it I have to take my crochet to a football game or track meet, I try not to miss a beat with my kids. Read more>>

Dickson Wambua, Ph.D | CEO Loomis Travel

What was your thought process behind starting your own business? Loomis Travel was born out of our personal travel frustrations, and a desire to solve a luggage problem. As international students studying in North Carolina, my wife and I traveled frequently between Kenya and the United States. We were frustrated with the poor quality, unreliable and expensive luggage available on the market that more often than not ripped apart during our trips. Read more>>

Isaac Rendon | Isaac Rendon | Cinematographer

When I started my first job I valued hardwork over my health but now in the end of my 20s that is when I had a wake up call of taking better care of myself. While it was physical most importantly I started finding out it was my mental state where I needed it the most. A shift perspective really helped me get through it. Read more>>