A host of factors, developments, and dynamics have made most industries more competitive than ever.  As a result so many of us wonder whether there is still such a thing as work-life balance. We reached out to the community to hear perspectives on finding the right balance.

Erin Sweed | Model, Actress & Career Advisor

Balance is the most important thing when it comes to work and life. In the beginning of my career, I was super eager to get active. I was so excited about getting started that I didn’t realize I was sacrificing my own balance to accomplish goals for my career. When I was in college, I was involved in several organizations, jobs and other extra curricular activities. At the time, I had a newborn and I was focused on working and providing a better life for her. The problem was I started to put her needs before mine. I was crashing when I got home and barely had time to spend with her. My mom would always say, “when are you going to get a routine?” My answer was always the same, “never”. Now 10 years later, I’m practically begging for routine to help keep me balanced. Read more>>

Jarnell Garland | Cake Artist

Overtime as my clientele began to increase I had to learn effective time management skills. Things that I would just “wing” before now have to be prioritized and written down to avoid being over looked. By doing this, I’ve found myself to be less stressed and overwhelmed. Read more>>

Shay Arnold | Middle School Teacher & Photographer

Photography has been a constant factor for me throughout many life changes. Within the past 2 years, I have changed careers, graduated with my Masters, and have since begun teaching in a middle school full time. While there is a lot of work that goes into owning a photography business, it has more so been a way for me to unwind, recenter, and refocus myself regardless of how stressful life has been. I love how photography gives me the opportunity to connect with nature and other people- usually in some of the most joyous moments of their life! Initially, I really struggled with “trying to do it all”, especially while in my Graduate Program. I felt that if I wasn’t booking a session for every free day that I had (while also working and going to school) I wasn’t being a successful business owner. Read more>>