How Do You Find Balance in Your Life?
We asked CEOs and founders what they would change about themselves if they could. From improving speaking skills to slowing down and recharging, here are seven insights from leaders on areas they would like to improve.
- Improve Speaking Skills
- Stop People-Pleasing
- Live in the Present
- Become More Patient
- Delegate More Tasks
- Prioritize Fitness Earlier
- Slow Down and Recharge
Improve Speaking Skills
If I could improve my speaking skills, I’ve noticed that many people succeed in life simply by being good talkers. They tend to have better jobs, more friends, and improved dating lives just by communicating effectively. This is a skill that anyone can learn, unlike some traits that people are born with and can’t change. While anyone can master this skill, some individuals appear to have a natural talent for it.
AL Tran
Blogger, Author, AI Trainer, DS Inspire
Stop People-Pleasing
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be to stop being such a people-pleaser. As the founder of a mental health organization, I often feel responsible for solving everyone’s problems and making sure our community’s needs are met. While this drive to help others is what fueled my passion for starting my company, it has led to burnout at times that impacted my own well-being.
Over the last year, I’ve learned that I can’t pour from an empty cup. I now make self-care a priority by setting clear boundaries, taking time for hobbies, and leaning on my support system. The organization has continued to thrive, and I feel recharged in my role. Leaders often feel the need to do everything themselves, but learning your limits and trusting others is key.
Our mission is to end suicide by healing the broken-hearted. We aim to raise awareness and equip individuals to save lives. Though this calling is profoundly meaningful, it also brings an emotional weight that can feel heavy. By practicing self-care, I’ve found the strength and clarity to lead this movement with passion and perseverance. When we make our mental health a priority, we have so much more to offer the world.
My advice to others is simple: slow down and avoid burning yourself out for the sake of productivity or achievement. Your impact depends on your well-being. Take a step back to rest and renew your purpose. The work will still be there, and you’ll return with fresh motivation and insight. Care for yourself so you can care for others.
Jacob Coyne
Founder, Stay Here
Live in the Present
I think we all know that “living in the present” is the best way to be at peace. I tend to ruminate on the past and plan for the future in a way that takes me out of that zone. I would love to focus more on being present in-the-moment.
Michael Alexis
CEO, Island Residency Solutions
Become More Patient
If I could change one thing about myself, it would definitely be to become more patient. In today’s fast-paced world, especially in tech, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the urgency for quick results. I’ve learned that when I take a moment to breathe and let things unfold at their own pace, the outcomes are often much better—not just for me, but for my entire team. Patience creates a space where ideas can grow and people can truly shine.
There’s a story that sticks with me from when we launched a new feature for my AI-based Bible application. I was so excited about it that I pushed my team really hard to hit the deadlines. The pressure built up, and instead of inspiring creativity, I ended up creating stress. One day, one of my team members came to me and said they were feeling overwhelmed. That conversation hit home for me. Instead of barreling ahead, I realized we needed to pause and reassess our approach. When we finally took a step back, the team felt more relaxed and connected. The launch turned out to be a huge success, and it really opened my eyes to the power of patience.
My strategy for being more patient involves setting realistic timelines and allowing for some flexibility in our projects. I’ve started encouraging my team to take breaks and reflect on their ideas, and it’s made a world of difference. We tackle challenges together, taking the time to brainstorm instead of just pushing through. This shift has not only led to better results but also created a much more positive atmosphere in our workplace.
In the grand scheme of things, I’ve come to see how this change has impacted my leadership. Patience is more than just a personal trait; it’s essential for fostering a strong team dynamic. Studies show that leaders who embody patience create more engaged and satisfied teams. By focusing on being patient, I’ve watched my team grow stronger—they feel empowered to share their ideas and take risks. This transformation has not only improved our projects but also reinforced how important it is to take our time to do things right. In the ever-evolving world of AI and business, I believe this approach is key to our success.
Spencer Christian
Founder, Christian Companion App
Delegate More Tasks
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be to slow down and avoid taking on too much at once. As an entrepreneur building a startup from the ground up, I have a tendency to work 15-plus-hour days and take on more projects than I can handle. While this drive and passion fueled our early growth, it has also led to periods of burnout that impacted my productivity and well-being.
Over the past year, I’ve learned that balance and delegation are key. I now make sure to unplug on weekends, take occasional vacations, and empower my team to handle more day-to-day responsibilities. The business has continued to thrive, and I feel refreshed in my role as CEO. Entrepreneurs often feel the need to do everything themselves, but learning your limits and trusting others is critical to longevity.
Chase Mckee
Founder & CEO, Rocket Alumni Solutions
Prioritize Fitness Earlier
If I could change one thing about myself, I would have dedicated more time and resources to my own fitness and nutrition at an earlier age. As a weight-loss coach for over 27 years, I’ve seen the struggles of making a lifestyle change later in life versus developing good habits early on.
While helping clients transform their lives and health has been incredibly rewarding, I wish I had started my own journey sooner. I struggled with my weight for years before making the necessary adjustments to diet and exercise that have allowed me to maintain a healthy body and mindset now. Those experiences have given me a unique understanding of the challenges and motivations behind significant weight loss.
Using my knowledge and experiences, I’m able to connect with clients on a personal level and provide custom guidance for overcoming obstacles. However, if I had focused on my well-being and fitness at a younger age, I would have gained valuable years of health and vitality. My mission is to help others avoid the same regrets by making sustainable lifestyle changes and achieving their weight-loss goals. The ability to empower people to transform their lives is the greatest gift.
Valerie Maclin
Owner, Smaller U Weightloss
Slow Down and Recharge
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be learning to slow down and take more breaks. Running a business and being hands-on in the field can be demanding, and sometimes I get caught up in the hustle. Taking more time to recharge would probably help me focus better and stay even more productive. For me, balance is something many business owners strive for but often overlook.
Amaury Ponce
Business Owner, Ponce Tree Services
Submit Your Answer
Would you like to submit an alternate answer to the question, “What is one thing you would change about yourself if you could?”
