Women, let’s face it: A lot is expected of us. We juggle professional responsibilities then toggle to our home obligations when the day is done. If caretaking for children or elderly parents are added to your day, these responsibilities can lead to burnout. However, successful women in our community are rising to the challenge and achieving the elusive work-life balance (as much as one can). We spoke to two of these women—Jennifer Johnmeyer, director of communications for Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, and Jennifer Cotner-Jones, executive director of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra— to get their advice on how to walk this balance beam of home and work.
What challenges do you face in creating a work-life balance?
Johnmeyer: The old quote “Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life” is motivational but has also been a bit dangerous for me. I really love my job—my worst day here is better than my best day anywhere else—but it has often come at the expense of my family. As I’ve aged, I’ve begun learning healthy boundaries, which often means saying no to work in order to enjoy family time. I’ll be a first-time grandmother in May, and my stepsons will be juniors in high school in the fall, so time feels more precious than ever.
Cotner-Jones: When I first started in the non-profit world, I made myself accessible at all times to staff, board members, and volunteers. Over time, this became overwhelming and started to take a toll on my personal life. I realized I needed to take a step back and set clear boundaries to create a healthier
balance and focus more on my family.
What strategies do you use to maintain balance between your personal and professional lives?
Johnmeyer: I pay more attention to the clock—not really in a clock-watching way, but more as a general mindfulness of when I started work. I set my phone to a time when it enters work mode and ends work mode. I also try not to pick up my laptop in the evenings unless I’m writing for fun. If I catch myself tabbing over to something work-related, it’s laptop down and hands up! Also, if I work an excessive amount one day, I grant myself that time back at some point in the week.
Cotner-Jones: I have a separate personal and work cell phone to keep boundaries clear. I sometimes adjust my schedule by coming in later so I can complete work without extending my day to 10 to 12 hours. I try to do this when my daughter and husband have their activities, so it doesn’t interfere with
family time. My voicemail greeting clearly states that if someone calls outside of normal business hours, on a weekend or a holiday, I will respond on the next business day. I encourage my staff to set similar boundaries.
What advice do you have for other women?
Johnmeyer: When you’re factoring in everything in a day that needs attention, add yourself. You deserve all the love, care and the rest that you want for everyone in your circle.
Cotner-Jones: It’s okay to set boundaries. Make time for school events and family activities—those moments matter. Family should always be number one. Prioritize your health and make time for exercise to stay energized and focused. Remember to laugh and reflect on your day. Taking notes can help you stay organized and prepare for the next day. Do not add the work email app on your phone. It’s okay to let your to-do list roll over to the next day. Most important: Do not let your work define you or take over your life.
What great advice have you heeded?
Johnmeyer: Many of the things I do are born of what I don’t want to become, mainly from witnessing burnout or unhealthy boundaries in others. I read about someone who would frequently say aloud, “Good things are always happening to me!” Once I tried it, I really did notice far more good than bad.
Cotner-Jones: A previous executive director gave me great advice: Think carefully before answering a work call at the dinner table. That guidance has really helped me maintain a better balance.
When you’re factoring in everything in a day that needs attention, add yourself. You deserve all the love, care and the rest that you want for everyone in your circle.
It’s okay to set boundaries. Make time for school events and family activities—those moments matter. Family should always be number one. Prioritize your health and make time for exercise to stay energized and focused.