First, you have to understand what’s most important in your life. Let’s assume that family is truly more important (hint: it is). If that’s true, then you absolutely need to make sure and give your spouse/kids adequate time and attention. That also means you can’t be traveling 100% of the time and you can’t be working late every night and weekends too. The key is balance like you mentioned in your question. But, make sure you are taking care of your family first. Jobs will come and go, but your family is with you until the end.
Next, in terms of being a senior leader, there is no rule that says you have to work crazy hours. There are certainly many companies where it’s all about the hours worked vs the work you put into the hours. If it’s all about the hours, I’d de-prioritize the desire to be a senior leader there.
In either case, I’d rather your focus be on being incredibly focused and productive during your normal work hours SO THAT you don’t have to work nights and weekends on a consistent basis. There are TONS of distractions today that end up wasting huge amounts of time. And the reality is that you can likely cut out the time wasters, leave work at a reasonable time, AND spend quality time with your family. That’s how to balance being a senior leader and having time with your family.
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