In a world where the lines between work and personal life are increasingly blurred, achieving a work-life balance that feels right for you often comes down to the boundaries you decide to set for yourself and those around you.
For my podcast guest this episode, there is no doubt where her work ends and the rest of her life begins.
Her name is Urmi Hossain, and she has built her life around what she calls her “9-to-5″ and her “5-to-9”.
By day, she works in the financial services industry. Outside those hours, she dedicates her time to something quite different: advocating for women’s empowerment, identity, and self-leadership through writing, podcasting, and content creation, allowing her to engage in activities that resonate with her passions.
Though proud and enthusiastic about her career in finance, Urmi maintains that it does not define her. Her overall identity is not encapsulated in that sole aspect of her life. There is so much more.
Throughout our conversation, Urmi and I explore the experiences that have shaped her outlook – from growing up as an immigrant and the child of immigrants, to the influence of culture and the birth order within her family.
We also discuss the importance of time-keeping, punctuality, and boundaries at work, including some practical tips that she applies to avoid consistently giving more time to her day job than she’s contracted to.
At the core of Urmi’s approach are three principles that guide how she chooses to spends her time and energy:
- Discipline
- Intention
- Motivation
I hope listeners will enjoy hearing Urmi’s story and pick up some useful insights on pursuing a balance that works for you.
As always, though her approach wouldn’t suit every situation, there is a great deal for all listeners to take away. Her perspective is a reminder to stay present, to be intentional in how we spend our time, and to feel confident – when necessary – to set those boundaries that help us find our own ‘fine balance’.
Follow this link to listen to my interview with Urmi: