When I first stepped into entrepreneurship, I thought I’d finally be free of the grind I knew from corporate life. Ironically, I quickly discovered the opposite.
Running a business—especially solo—doesn’t lighten the workload. Instead, it changes shape. In corporate, I had a defined role, mostly behind the scenes. But as a founder, I cover every function: operations, finance, marketing, customer service, and more. Every decision, big or small, comes back to me.
The Work–Life Balance Myth
Early on, I asked a CEO about work–life balance, hoping for a formula I could follow. His answer has stayed with me ever since: “It’s always a struggle.”
At the time, I wanted a tidy solution. Now, with more experience, I see the truth in those words. Whether you’re in corporate life or running your own business, balance is rarely perfect—it’s about constant adjustment.
Corporate Structure vs. Entrepreneurial Flow
In corporate jobs, results are tied to clear deliverables: monthly reports, quarterly numbers, weekly check‑ins. There’s a set rhythm, even if it’s demanding.
Entrepreneurship runs on a different beat. Results ebb and flow. Some seasons bring momentum; others feel slower, filled with uncertainty. I’ve learned that the process itself becomes the foundation, because the payoff doesn’t always arrive right away.
Why Wellness Matters in Any Career
This is why wellness at work isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
- For corporate professionals, wellness practices help combat burnout and maintain energy in high‑demand roles.
- For entrepreneurs, wellness becomes an anchor when results fluctuate and the pressure to “do it all” sets in.
In both paths, taking care of yourself outside of your job isn’t optional. It’s essential for long‑term success and sustainability.
My Wellness Anchor: Concrete Garden Candles
For me, wellness has taken the form of intentional pauses. Concrete Garden Candles—through our candles and diffusers—has become part of that practice. These products aren’t just home décor; they’re invitations to slow down, breathe, and reset.
What began as a business has also become a personal wellness tool. And I see the same for our community: creating moments of calm in the middle of busy, demanding lives.
The Truth About Wellness
Wellness isn’t linear. Some days, it’s about showing up for your routine. Other days, it’s about giving yourself grace to ebb and flow. Both are valid. Both are necessary.
If you’re working through the constant pull between career ambition and personal wellness—whether in corporate life or entrepreneurship—know that you’re not alone.
What about you? How do you balance the push of ambition with the pull of wellness in your own work?