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

Hi Lizzy, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I haven’t always prioritized finding balance, which has caught up with me more often than not. My identity was rooted in what I did, not who I was as a person. This mindset didn’t create the best foundation for a healthy work-life balance. Now, I’m still learning to create space and separation.

Finding balance will always be a work in progress for me, but focusing on strategies to promote sustainability has helped immensely. I’ve been shifting my mindset to be more in the present moment: I am either 100% dedicated to delivering my top effort in my work, or I am 100% dedicated to recharging so I can continue forward without burning out. I realized the constant in-betweens of feeling guilty while taking a break or needing a break while working are more counter-productive then simply recognizing when I need a reset and taking it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In my professional life, I wear multiple different hats. I spent three seasons dancing professionally for the Golden State Warriors while also working to become a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in working with performing artists. Today I continue to dance and work as a choreographer, dance educator, and current Head Coach of the UCLA Dance Team.

One of the more challenging things I’ve encountered is balancing the pursuit of multiple different career paths at the same time. I’ve been told that I wouldn’t be able to do everything I believed I could, that I couldn’t succeed unless I was fully invested in only one specific direction, and that I was in way over my head. The balancing act of it all does get difficult at times, but I’ve found ways to tie together the common threads. Each thing I do complements the next, and I now look at this balance as a strength that helps me deliver my best. I’ve also always been extremely determined and have had a great support system surrounding me. Again, I’m grateful for my family and close friends for continuing to believe in me and what I am capable of. They’ve helped me learn that there’s always a way through as long as you don’t lose sight of your passions and values.

If I’ve taken away anything from navigating my early career, it’s that it doesn’t need to look like everyone else’s. In fact, that’s what makes it exciting, worthwhile, and meaningful. My work is important to me and helps make a difference in the lives of movers and performers across generations- that is more than I could ever ask for.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Both of my parents are Southern California natives, so we’d spend a lot of time in Los Angeles and San Diego growing up. I love driving to Zuma Beach to watch the sunset- it always feels like a little piece of home, as that was the beach I spent almost every summer at as a kid. I love bringing a picnic there, or running up to the overlook at Point Dume. I also love hiking Inspiration Point in Will Rogers with my dog. I usually recommend people spend as much time as they can outside to enjoy the weather!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has always been my biggest support system. I wouldn’t be anywhere without them. As the youngest of three, I was lucky to be able to learn from my siblings growing up. I am also fortunate in that my parents consistently have encouraged me to purse my passions. My family is always my first call I make with any good news, and they are the first to help get me back on my feet in difficult situations. They have shown me what true, unconditional love is; I am grateful to know it and try my best to reflect that back to them and others.

Website: lizzymeg.com

Instagram: @lizzy_meg_

Image Credits
Lindsay Rosenberg Joshua Leung Oliver Dabao

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