Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1541840
DECEMBER 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 49 That's good to hear. Do you have flexible work options, such as remote work and adjusted hours? I do have some flexibility to work remotely if needed and adjust my day, as long as the work is covered. The challenge is that I value face-to-face time, and I like my team to be onsite as much as possible, with one remote day a week. That bit of flexibility helps us to focus on giving 100% without burning out. Career counselors recommend setting boundaries, such as not working past 5 p.m. What types of boundaries do you set between work and personal life? This is honestly an area I'm actively work- ing on. I am not always great about shutting the laptop or letting something wait until the next day, I tend to push myself hard because I don't ever want to disappoint anyone. But I've already decided this will be my New Year's resolution. I'm sure setting boundaries will make me even stronger. We're anxious to hear how it goes. Now, taking regular breaks for exercise or mind- fulness is helpful. What tips do you have for relieving stress at work? I go through seasons with exercise, usually in spring and summer when I am prepping for my annual team relay. It's always fun, and I would like to be more consistent through- out the year. My biggest "me" time right now is honestly my audiobooks during my commute. I look forward to that time every day because it lets my brain shift gears and reset before I walk into time with my family. Now if I could just lock up that laptop for the night. Do you have any tips for anyone struggling to achieve a great work-life balance? My tip (and honestly, I'm preaching to myself here): Don't wait until you're fried to make changes. Balance doesn't just magi- cally happen; you have to choose it. I know I'm better when I give myself permission to shut down, breathe, reset, and come back with fresh eyes. That's work/life "balance." DESIGN007