03/17/2026
A reminder I needed yesterday, and maybe you do too.
Yesterday I had my littlest home with me as she recovers from a nasty bug. It followed an incredibly challenging weekend of solo parenting while my husband works out of town. I was exhausted, overwhelmed at the thought of caring for my toddler when my own cup was empty, and guilt-ridden from having to reschedule meetings.
In the afternoon, family stepped in to help with both of my girls and gave me the time to pause, breathe, and recalibrate. I was left feeling incredibly grateful.
My little one turns two this week, and in the quiet moments I was gifted with, I couldn’t help but reflect. Two years ago, I worked until the Friday before my Tuesday delivery. I answered a work text from my hospital bed. I worked through my entire leave. I gave up precious time with my growing family because I believed work couldn’t wait. I struggled with boundaries and didn’t ask for help. One of the biggest drivers behind my journey into entrepreneurship was reclaiming what I’d lost: my life, in balance.
Yesterday, I was so fortunate that I had the flexibility to move things around. To put my family first. To make sure they were taken care of - including myself. And you know what? Everyone I had to reschedule with was nothing short of understanding.
I still struggle with stepping away from work and feel compelled to stretch myself thin to meet everyone else’s needs. But is that any way to live? And am I really performing at my best when I’m simply functioning instead of thriving?
As an HR professional, I regularly advocate for employees to have healthy boundaries and work–life balance. After all, we work to live, not live to work. And if I believe wholeheartedly that others are better for this balance, then that same grace should apply to me. And to you.
So here’s your friendly reminder: you’re allowed to put yourself and your family first. Work can wait, or someone else can step in. Don’t be afraid to take time, take space, ask for help, and communicate your needs. The right people will give you grace, show you compassion, and support you the best they can.
No one can pour from an empty cup, so please make sure you’re finding time and ways to fill your own.