We had the good fortune of connecting with William Matthews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi William, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Having a work-life balance is extremely important, especially now that so many of us are working from home. While some are just as productive working from home as in the office, others struggle with being isolated or having to manage additional parental duties on top of everything else. For years, I worked at a job that had an unhealthy work-life balance. As such, I always made sure to ask about this separation while interviewing for other jobs. I perform better at work when I am able to meditate, work out, and have family and alone time because it helps my overall wellbeing and mental health.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My background in real estate development, event planning, and fund development has shaped my signature approach that combines my entrepreneurial alter-ego with an uncompromising personality and philanthropist mindset. I strive to resonate with my audience at each speaking engagement with my sense of humor, wit, and descriptions of the challenges that I have faced. Growing up, I had a major chip on my shoulder after being kicked out of five schools and told by many I wouldn’t amount to anything. Since then, I have achieved two degrees, written three books, raised millions of dollars for organizations, and completed a leadership program at Harvard University.

One important lesson I learned along the way is that every ‘no’ is a growth opportunity. I now like to think of every ‘no’ as a slingshot- it is pulling me back, but eventually, I am going to release myself from the pressure of these no’s and soar. It’s helpful to keep a ‘no’ notebook to write down these setbacks, find the lessons in them, and then eventually get past them. Another great lesson I’ve learned is that self-esteem is what you say about yourself each day. Some ways you can improve your self-esteem is by giving yourself encouragement in the mirror, or by asking the people around you, “What are ten things that are great about me?” place those affirmations in a jar, and pull one out every day before you leave your home.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First, I would take a friend visting to an outdoor brunch at “Local Foods” in Upper Kirby. This would be followed by retail therapy at The Galleria and dinner downtown. After dinner, we would have cocktails at “Tongue Cut Sparrow.” Another great way to spend the weekend is recharging at the pool and spa at the Four Seasons Hotel Houston. 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Linda Harris, thank you for the mental workout and constantly reminding me “I am worthy.”

Website: www.williamsmatthews.com
Instagram: WilliamSMatthews
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-s-matthews-b392b876/
Twitter: @MrWSMatthews
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/William-S-Matthews-198176435021
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGmAnxn0uISfV5_8txNBgQ

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