24 hours in a day, 168 hours in a week. Junior investment bankers regularly work 80-90 hours a week. Many other high profile professions require the same level of commitment. Often those on the outside claim that working 80-90 hours a week is bad/wrong/terrible/silly/etc but we’ve spoken with so many folks who say working that much has been the best decision of their life – it allowed them to develop a deep and strong skill set far faster than would have been possible otherwise. In other words, by working 2x the hours, they were able to generate 5x or more the rewards. And depending on where you are in your career, investing heavily in your skills and competence can pay dividends for a long time.

Dj Spynfo | Dj, Philanthropist and Event Space Owner

As DJ Spynfo and now the owner of Sankofa Haus balancing work and family life has been an evolving journey, especially with my son Aaron and my fiancée Bervely by my side. Initially, the demands of my career often kept me on the move, which made it challenging to maintain a stable balance. However, over time, I’ve learned the importance of prioritizing my time and setting boundaries to ensure I can dedicate quality moments to my family. The presence of Aaron and Bervely has deeply influenced how I view this balance; it’s no longer just about finding time outside of work but integrating my family into my life’s passion wherever possible. They inspire me to work smarter, not harder, and remind me that success isn’t just measured by my achievements in the music industry but also by the happiness and well-being of my loved ones. The balance is a constant negotiation, but with them, it feels like we’re on this journey together, making every moment count. Read more>>

Tiffany Coffman | Publicist and talent manager

In the beginning, work-life balance wasn’t something I actively thought about. My passion for my work was all-consuming, and the joy it brought me seemed to negate the need for any balance. However, this perspective shifted dramatically when my mother became ill. It was a stark realization that, despite my enthusiasm for my career, life demanded balance. I regretted not spending more physical time with her, especially during the holidays, recognizing too late that she needed more than just stories of my adventures. This experience transformed my approach to life and work. Now, I prioritize balance, ensuring that no single aspect of my life overshadows the others. I’ve learned to find beauty in this equilibrium, cherishing both my professional achievements and personal connections. Read more>>

Tommy Wu | Music Composer

The balance between my work and personal life has remained relatively consistent over time. As a composer, my profession lacks the regular time shifts that many other occupations adhere to. I have the flexibility to adjust my schedule when fatigue sets in, allowing me to maintain what I consider to be a well-established work-life balance. Read more>>

Aletta Ren | Artist & Writer

Life experience is to creation as rain is to seeds; without it, no matter how abundantly seeds are sown, the field remains barren. I’ve taught creative writing workshops and courses in fine arts and design. Most classes focus on imparting techniques, touching only the surface layer of the creative process. As learning progresses, the most crucial lesson we can impart to students is ‘how to live.’ Read more>>