From Workaholic to a CEO with Balance. My Journey to a Happier Life
By Victor Tabaac
In today’s fast-paced world, the pressure to succeed often leads many of us to become workaholics. As a CEO of a startup, I was no exception. I dedicated every waking moment to my work, neglecting my family, friends, and even my own well-being. However, through self-reflection and a burning desire for change, I embarked on a transformative journey that allowed me to find balance and happiness in all aspects of my life. In this article, I will share my personal journey from being a workaholic to becoming a professional with a fulfilling and balanced life.
It was a typical day at my home office when I realized that my obsession with work had taken over every aspect of my life. My family had become distant strangers, my health was deteriorating, and the things that once brought me joy were nothing more than distant memories. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks — I was sacrificing everything for the sake of success.
I knew I needed to make a change, not just for myself, but for the people who loved me. I started by seeking guidance from mentors and experts who had successfully achieved work-life balance. Their stories and advice resonated with me, and I knew it was time to redefine my priorities.
One of the first steps I took was setting clear boundaries between my work and personal life. I established designated hours for work, allowing myself the freedom to disconnect and be present for my family and friends. This simple act of creating boundaries allowed me to regain control over my time and focus on what truly mattered.
I realized that neglecting my well-being was not only harming me but also affecting my ability to lead effectively. I made a conscious effort to prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that rejuvenated my mind, body, and soul. Doing things I loved like playing golf, meditation, and spending quality time with loved ones became non-negotiable aspects of my routine.
As a workaholic, I had a tendency to micromanage and take on more responsibilities than necessary. I learned to trust my team and delegate tasks, empowering them to take ownership and excel in their roles. This not only relieved my workload but also fostered a sense of shared responsibility and growth within the organization.
Rather than viewing work and personal life as separate entities, I embraced the concept of work-life integration. I discovered that when I allowed myself to enjoy both work and personal activities, they complemented and enhanced each other. I started incorporating family time into my work schedule and vice versa, creating a seamless blend that brought joy and fulfillment to all aspects of my life.
Embracing work-life balance has transformed me into a more effective leader and a happier individual. I have found that by taking care of myself and nurturing my personal relationships, I am better equipped to handle the challenges that come with running a startup. My renewed sense of balance has also inspired my team to prioritize their well-being, resulting in increased productivity and a positive work culture.
My journey from being a workaholic to a CEO with balance has been nothing short of life-changing. I have come to realize that success is not defined solely by professional achievements but by the happiness and fulfillment we find in all aspects of our lives. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and embracing work-life integration, I have not only become a better CEO but also a better spouse, parent, and friend. I encourage every workaholic out there to take a step back, evaluate their priorities, and embark on their own journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.
