Protecting What Matters: Work-Life Balance That Sticks

 
 
 

My most important role in life is being a Mom. And in this role, I’ve had a hard-fought battle in realizing the importance of work-life balance—especially with how elusive it can feel at times.

We often talk about balance as if it’s a perfectly even scale, but the truth is, balance looks different for everyone. It shifts with seasons of life, and what works one month might not work the next. That’s why coaching can be such a powerful tool in helping people redefine and reclaim their work-life balance in a way that feels sustainable and fulfilling. I’m going to share some strategies that I’ve found helpful in that journey.

Identifying Priorities and Setting Boundaries

Comparison is the thief of joy. I know this firsthand. We look around and assume everyone else has it all figured out, but the truth is, they’re likely just as overwhelmed. Work-life balance starts with understanding what truly matters to you—not to your boss, not to your team, not to social media, but to you.

Identify your "non-negotiables." What parts of life are sacred? What are the things that, if sacrificed, would leave you feeling empty? Once those priorities are clear, it becomes easier to set boundaries that protect them. That could mean setting office hours, turning off notifications after a certain time, or simply learning to say "no" to obligations that don’t align with your values.

Shifting Mindset and Overcoming Barriers

Many people struggle with the idea that they must always be available, always be producing, always be "on." But the reality is, constant hustle leads to burnout, not success. It’s important to reframe our mindset around what success looks like and give ourselves permission to rest without guilt.

Encouraging Self-Care and Well-Being

After having my son, I struggled with postpartum depression. I felt an exhaustion I can’t put into words, and at times, I felt like I was watching my life happen from the outside. It took me a while to accept that I needed help, but once I did, everything changed. That experience reinforced one of my biggest beliefs: nothing makes a problem seem bigger than facing it alone.

Coaching can be a lifeline in helping individuals integrate self-care into their routines. Whether it’s scheduling regular movement, practicing mindfulness, or simply making space for hobbies, prioritizing well-being is essential. Taking care of ourselves shouldn’t be a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Leveraging Support and Accountability

The truth is everything is figure-out-able with the right support. Building accountability structures that keep you aligned with your goals—whether that’s through peer support, structured check-ins with a coach, or simply having someone to remind you why they started in the first place.

Your Why That Makes You Cry

I say it all the time: these kids don’t keep. Having children with such a big age gap has given me the perspective to appreciate that the chaos of today is what I’ll long for tomorrow. Watching my husband play tickle monster, singing my son back to sleep, being there for my daughter when she needs me for some teenage girl talk —these are the moments that matter. And they’re the moments I fight to protect.

Work-life balance isn’t about perfection. It’s about being present where it matters most. Whether your "why" is your family, your passions, or your health, the key is to structure your life in a way that honors it. So today, I challenge you to take one small step toward protecting what matters most. Your future self will thank you for it.


Written by Breanna Crews

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