Client meetings, renewal deadlines and keeping ahead of constant market changes have controlled my calendar for the past 20 years. It seems like
When I started in this industry, my biggest concern was mastering the
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Our industry is known for its seasonal rushes and demands. Q4 renewal season often feels like running a marathon at sprint speed, while regulatory changes trigger urgent client needs at any moment. Meanwhile, at home there are school drop-offs (which my wife and I do every day), sports practices and those precious everyday moments that you never want to miss. Don't get me started on endless last-minute grocery store runs and the dreaded flu season. So how do I make it all work? My secret lies in three key strategies: scheduling, technology and maintaining clear boundaries — though I'll be the first to admit these aren't always perfect.
1. Scheduling
As my kids have gotten older and busier, I've learned to be protective of my calendar, blocking out specific times for both work and family commitments. My day starts at 6 a.m. when I review emails and plan my day before the kids wake up. The head start allows me to be fully present during our morning routine, helping with breakfast and kid's activities without constantly checking my phone.
I schedule meetings during school hours; early mornings and late afternoons are for more flexible internal work when family needs can arise, which they always do! Most people (especially after the pandemic) appreciate my transparency about my schedule and relate to these boundaries, especially since many are themselves parents.
2. Bless technology
Technology is essential for my work-life balance. Virtual meetings have cut travel time, allowing me to be more present at home. Cloud-based systems mean I can quickly handle urgent matters from my home office after brushing everyone's teeth and precious one-on-one time with my kids rather than missing family dinner to stay late at the office. I always tell people I can start my day in Mendocino and end it (four hours away) in San Jose, then I simply close my computer and walk downstairs for dinner.
With that said, tech is a double-edged sword. The ability to work from anywhere can easily blur the lines between work and family time. I've developed strict rules about when and how I use my devices, including my "no phones at the dinner table" policy that applies to everyone.
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3. Family man
One of my proudest achievements isn't a large sale or successful renewal (though those are great too) — it's maintaining my commitment to being a very hands-on dad despite the demands of my career. These moments, which we can never get back, aren't just important to my children; they're important for my own well-being and perspective. Nothing makes me happier.
Honestly, there are days when it feels like everything is falling apart. When a client crisis coincides with a sick child, or when a crucial meeting runs long on the day of a school performance, I'm constantly power juggling. I don't stress for perfection but strive for overall balance. The pandemic taught me to be open with both my clients and family about these challenges. Clients know that while I'm completely dedicated to their needs, I'm also a father and family guy. This transparency strengthened my professional relationships in ways I could not have imagined — it added a meaningful human element to our interactions.
As our industry continues to evolve and children grow, the balancing act changes, too. What worked when they were toddlers doesn't work now that they're in school and involved in a million activities. I'm going to remain flexible and continuously adjust to my daily reality and how I approach things.
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For those in our industry starting their own families, or seasoned professionals struggling to find balance, I encourage you to set boundaries and make family a priority. Being a parent has made me a better broker. It has enhanced my sense of compassion and empathy, improved my time-management skills and given me a deeper understanding of the work-life challenges many clients face.
The rollercoaster ride of being a busy broker and father at the same time isn't always pretty but is so rewarding. It requires many tough choices. But whether I'm helping a client solve an issue or reading a sweet bedtime story to my youngest, I know that this balancing act is worth every moment.
I must also credit my unbelievably understanding and superstar wife –- my partner in crime, Lindsey. She has been there with and for me since the beginning of my career, from the kids to everything in between. Having both a support system and reasonable boundaries in place are key drivers behind finding that ever-elusive work-life balance. If you're lucky and prudent enough to establish and implement these foundational elements, then success will surely follow you to the office and back to your front doorstep.
