As an executive with over 14 years of experience in commercial real estate, I’ve often found myself navigating the delicate balance between a demanding career and the responsibilities of family life. The journey has been challenging, but also immensely rewarding. Over the years, I’ve developed strategies and perspectives that have helped me not only succeed in my professional life but also be present for my family, especially my four sons, who mean the world to me.
In this blog, I want to share some insights on how I’ve managed to balance these two crucial aspects of my life. My hope is that others who find themselves in similar situations can draw inspiration and practical advice from my experiences.
The Importance of Prioritization
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that not everything can be a priority at all times. As much as we’d like to excel in every aspect of our lives simultaneously, the reality is that we need to make conscious decisions about where to focus our time and energy.
For me, this has meant being clear about my values and what matters most to me. My family is my top priority, and I’ve structured my life around that. This doesn’t mean that my career takes a backseat—far from it. Instead, it’s about making sure that my work serves my life goals, rather than the other way around.
For example, when I’m at home with my family, I make a concerted effort to be fully present. That might mean setting aside my phone during dinner or taking a break from work emails in the evening so I can spend quality time with my sons. Conversely, when I’m at work, I focus on being as productive and efficient as possible, so I can leave the office with a sense of accomplishment and return home without unfinished business weighing on my mind.
Setting Boundaries
Another key aspect of balancing family and career is setting and maintaining clear boundaries. This is easier said than done, especially in a world where technology keeps us constantly connected. However, it’s essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Early in my career, I found it challenging to switch off from work, especially in high-pressure environments like investment banking and real estate finance. Over time, I realized that without boundaries, I was risking burnout and, more importantly, missing out on precious moments with my family.
One strategy that has worked well for me is establishing non-negotiable family time. For instance, weekends are sacred in our household. We often spend Saturdays fishing, skiing, or boating around Chicago. These activities not only allow me to relax and recharge but also create lasting memories with my sons.
In the workplace, I’ve learned to delegate effectively and trust my team. This not only empowers them but also frees up my time to focus on strategic decisions rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks. Setting clear expectations with my colleagues and clients about my availability has also been crucial. When everyone knows and respects my boundaries, it becomes easier to maintain that balance.
Embracing Flexibility
While setting boundaries is important, it’s equally vital to embrace flexibility. Life, both personal and professional, is full of unexpected twists and turns. The ability to adapt and adjust plans is crucial for maintaining balance.
There have been times when urgent work matters required my immediate attention, even during family time. In these situations, I’ve learned to communicate openly with my family. By explaining the importance of the task at hand and how it fits into the bigger picture of our lives, my sons have come to understand that while work can sometimes be demanding, it also provides for the life we enjoy together.
On the flip side, there have been instances where family needs took precedence over work. I’ve never hesitated to reschedule a meeting or delegate a task when my family needed me. Understanding that flexibility goes both ways has been key to managing both aspects of my life.
The Power of Support Systems
No one can balance family and career alone. Having a strong support system, both at home and at work, is essential. My wife has been my rock, supporting me through the highs and lows of my career. Her understanding and partnership have allowed me to pursue my professional goals while being an active and present father.
At work, building a reliable team has been crucial. Surrounding myself with competent, trustworthy colleagues has given me the confidence to step away when needed, knowing that things will run smoothly in my absence.
Mentorship has also played a significant role in my journey. Learning from other executives who have successfully managed the balance between family and career has provided me with valuable insights and strategies. I’ve also made it a point to mentor others, sharing my experiences and helping them navigate their own paths.
The Long-Term Perspective
Finally, it’s important to take a long-term view of both career and family life. There will be seasons where work demands more of your time and energy, and others where family takes precedence. The key is to maintain a sense of balance over the long run, rather than striving for perfection in every moment.
As my sons grow older, I’m increasingly aware of how quickly time passes. This perspective motivates me to make the most of our time together, even as I continue to pursue my professional goals. In the end, success in both family and career comes down to making intentional choices, setting priorities, and being flexible enough to adapt to life’s inevitable changes.
Balancing family and career is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous effort and reflection, but the rewards are well worth it. By prioritizing what matters most, setting boundaries, embracing flexibility, and leaning on support systems, it’s possible to thrive in both your personal and professional life.