True Confession: I'm a bit of a workaholic.
If I’m being completely honest with you, and myself, I’m a bit of a workaholic.
I love my work. A little bit too much at times. It’s not uncommon for me to work 10-12 hours in any given day, and get in a little work sesh over the weekend. And to be clear, I’m not complaining about it (most of the time)!
My work is challenging, exciting, rewarding, and even exhilarating, especially when I’m working on a new project. I love what I do, so I spend a lot of time doing it.
But all the hours I spend working end up taking the place of other things I could be doing. For example, I rarely see friends during the week. I avoid lunch dates at all costs. I skip the vast majority of happy hours because alcohol and I don’t really get along. And I opt out of a lot of social or work functions that keep me out past 8pm.
These are all choices I’ve made that have largely supported me in life & business. But every now and again the scales tip so heavily toward work that I’m left questioning if I really “do” anything besides work and preparing for work.
It’s when I feel the urge to skip a workout so I can get in another hour of work.
It’s when I convince myself I’m better off behind my laptop than out experiencing a beautiful Saturday.
It’s when I skip visiting my 85 year old grandma so I can get in extra work on the weekend.
It’s when I tell a “white lie” to a friend, so I can break our plans to go out, and instead stay home and go nuts on a work projects.
It’s in those moments when I really have to remind myself that…
Life is not just about work.
Yes, work is a big part of the picture. And it’s a part of my life that makes me very happy and fulfilled. Yet I realize that I must put a deliberate focus on the other areas of my life that also make me happy and fulfilled.
It’s about spending time with my friends, laughing, sharing stories, breaking bread. It’s about getting outside, soaking up the fresh air and sunshine, and hiking that uncharted trail. It’s about curling up with a book, getting my nails done, jamming out to some tunes, or sitting in utter and complete silence. It’s about plotting a new adventure with my man, or trying to beat him in chess.
It’s the entire array of experiences that really make this life one worth living.
I didn’t start my business to become a “great worker” and I imagine you didn’t either.
I started my business to fulfill my heart and soul’s work, and to create more freedom and independence to be me. It’s that version of me that wants to live out my own personal motto every single day... Live loud. Eat well. Travel often.
Sometimes as entrepreneurs we need a gentle reminder that we are so much more that our work. Sometimes we need a full blown intervention. And no matter where you find yourself on that spectrum today, know that we’re right there with you.
I’m delighted to kick off our May Theme of the Month, “The Girlbosses Guide to Balance” with Stephanie Burg, Board Certified Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach.
Stephanie Burg is a fierce advocate for the human form, drawing upon her expertise in movement and studies in holistic nutrition, gut health, food allergies and spiritual + emotional well-being to teach women how to return to the innate wisdom and brilliance of their female bodies. Stephanie teaches women to shed outmoded, limiting beliefs about themselves and their bodies and to prioritize excellent nutrition and self-care. Stephanie believes that when a woman loves the body she calls home, she embraces her power to create the life she was born to live.
Stephanie’s work has been featured in publications such as ABC News, Colorado Public Radio, Dance Magazine, Mind Body Green, Elephant Journal, Tiny Buddha, and various national and local publications. Stephanie was selected as one of Charleston, SC’s “50 Most Progressive” celebrating the most forward-thinking individuals having an impact on the future of Charleston.
We’re about to embark upon a special journey with Stephanie’s guidance. Together we’ll explore what it means as entrepreneurs pursue work/life balance. We’ll unpack specific tactics, tips, and tricks to help you step into alignment in your life. And we’ll reflect on on the richness of the human experience and how to build an amazing F’in life.
This is all happening exclusively Inside the Tribe! When you join the Hatch Tribe Members Circle you’ll get access to exclusive content like this month’s program “Girlbosses Guide to Balance” and our incredible community of women entrepreneurs who are here to walk this path by your side and support your growth every step of the way. What are you waiting for? Life’s too damn short to go it alone. Click here to learn more & Join the Tribe!