Finding Balance in the Chaos - Sandbox - Webflow website template

Is there such a thing as work-life balance in leadership anymore? I’ve been wrestling with this question for years, and the truth is, I don’t even think it’s about circumstance. We get so easily obsessed with our life’s work, and when you add how connected we are now, it’s no wonder the lines have blurred.

I’ll be honest: I prefer working in the office. But let’s face it, we’re all so connected that we can work anywhere, and we do. I’ve taken calls and answered emails on anniversary trips, during once-in-a-lifetime vacations, at the hospital, and even in the middle of life’s most tragic moments. I’m not ashamed to admit it, but I also know I’ve paid a price for those decisions. Each of us needs to stop and ask ourselves: what are we truly sacrificing?

For me, the answer was clear: precious time. Time with my kids before they’re grown, time with my aging parents, and time for myself to recharge. Those moments don’t come back, and that realization hit me like a ton of bricks. I know I’m not alone in this struggle. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s becoming harder and harder to switch off from work, and it’s our personal well-being that ends up taking a backseat.

But here’s the thing: prioritizing balance isn’t just a “nice-to-have” anymore. It’s vital. It’s vital for our health, our relationships, and for the long-term success of the very organizations we pour so much into. I keep coming back to one simple truth: never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.

Because at the end of the day, the memories we create with our loved ones and the care we give ourselves are what truly matter. Success isn’t just measured by professional achievements—it’s measured by the moments that fill our hearts and sustain our souls. So let’s challenge the notion that busyness equals productivity, and instead, embrace a life where balance, presence, and joy take center stage. After all, a fulfilled life is one where we don’t just survive the grind—we thrive beyond it.

"In today’s fast-paced world, it’s becoming harder and harder to switch off from work, and it’s our personal well-being that ends up taking a backseat." - Mel Koller

I’ve learned this the hard way. Over the years, I’ve accumulated thousands of hours in unused personal leave. Thousands. And honestly, that’s not something I’m proud of. So here’s my challenge to you: in 2025, take 80% of your allocated annual leave hours. Think about the life you want outside of work, the life you deserve, and go make it happen.

Here are a few strategies that have helped me to prioritize both work and well-being:

1. Block Time for What Matters I started scheduling personal time the same way I’d schedule an important meeting. Whether it’s exercise, family dinners, hobbies, or simply unwinding, I put it on my calendar and protect it like it’s the most critical conference of my day.

2. Learn to Delegate This one’s tough for me. As leaders, we’re so tempted to oversee every detail. But leadership is about empowering others. Trusting my team to handle tasks and make decisions has not only lightened my load, but it’s also helped them grow.

3. Practice Mindful Downtime When I’m not working, I’ve started training myself to be truly present. Whether it’s at dinner with my family or watching my kid’s soccer game, I try to focus entirely on the moment. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

4. Make Time for Reflection I’ve found that reflection is like a compass. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or savoring a quiet cup of coffee, those moments of introspection help me see where I need to readjust my focus.

5. Lean on Your Peers I’ve learned that sharing experiences with other leaders can be incredibly cathartic. It’s reassuring to know I’m not alone, and sometimes, the advice I get from others is exactly what I need to hear.

None of these strategies are a magic fix, but small, consistent changes can lead to meaningful improvements over time.

So, I’ll ask you this: how do you manage the demands of being a leader while staying present for what truly matters? I’d love to hear your strategies, because your experience might inspire others who are walking this same tightrope.

Work-life balance in leadership isn’t a pipe dream. It’s a challenge worth taking on, a priority worth defending, and a legacy worth leaving for those who matter most.

"Think about the life you want outside of work, the life you deserve, and go make it happen." - Mel Koller

- Mel Koller