How executives can balance work and life: Prioritizing health, family, and relationships

While it may not sound like a long day to some, the average CEO works just under ten hours per day.

For life at the top of the ladder, maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is extremely important—not only for your well-being but for long-term professional success. 10-hour days rarely allow for the work-life balance one requires. 

The struggle is real: executives often find themselves neglecting their families, relationships, and health, as work consumes their daily lives.

Lessons from influential leaders

Fortunately, high-profile leaders like Richard Branson have set a great example with approaches to achieve this balance. His philosophy is simple: “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” 

Branson advocates integrating work with passion and family, emphasizing that if your work excites you, it can flow seamlessly into your life without feeling like a burden. He’s also a huge proponent of physical health, attributing his success to a daily exercise routine that helps him recharge.

Another prominent advocate for balance is Arianna Huffington, who has been outspoken about the dangers of burnout in leadership roles. After collapsing from exhaustion in 2007, Huffington founded Thrive Global with a mission to promote well-being and work-life balance.

She stresses the importance of prioritizing sleep and personal wellness as key elements for professional success. Huffington's experience is a classic example of how the most accomplished executives can fall into the trap of overworking; but she believes that rest, meditation, and setting boundaries are critical to long-term productivity.

Five work-life tips, with practical takeaways

So how can executives today apply these lessons to their own lives? Here are a few strategies.

Practical Tip: Schedule your downtime just as you would a meeting. If your calendar reflects your priorities, you’re more likely to honor them.

2. Delegate effectively

One of the most significant challenges for top executives is resisting the urge to manage everything. Effective delegation can not only reduce workload but also foster trust within the team. Leaders like Branson have built successful enterprises by surrounding themselves with strong teams, allowing others to take ownership of key tasks. Delegation also empowers teams to innovate and grow under less micromanagement. 

Practical Tip: Identify routine tasks that can be handled by others and trust your team to execute. Save your own time for strategic decisions and personal development.

3. Prioritize health

Being in good health is foundational to professional success, but it is often one of the first things to be neglected under the pressures of leadership. And if you’re not healthy, how can you be an effective leader? Both Branson and Huffington are vocal about the importance of integrating physical activity, nutrition, and sleep into daily routines. Branson, for instance, starts his day with exercise, while Huffington advocates for the power of sleep to boost decision-making and creativity. 

Take it from a large sampling of CEOs: sleep is not overrated. 

Practical Tip: Much like scheduling downtime, block time in your schedule for physical activity, even if it’s just a 30-minute walk. Make your sleep routine a priority so that you feel rested and clear-headed for the challenges of the day.

5. Nurture relationships

As busy as executives are, it’s crucial not to lose sight of personal relationships. Whether it's family, friends, or partners, these relationships offer emotional support and balance that can improve overall well-being. Remember that success is not measured by work accomplishments alone; a rich personal life can make a big difference in a leader’s ability to make better decisions. 

Practical Tip: Make personal time non-negotiable. Whether it's a weekly friends and family dinner or a weekend getaway, put it in your calendar as you would any important meeting.

Final takeaway

By following these strategies, executives can ensure they aren’t sacrificing their personal lives in the pursuit of greater career success. Ultimately, it’s going to take a balanced approach to achieve better decision-making, improved health, and more meaningful relationships — both inside and outside the boardroom.