Ben MortonLeadership Trainer, Coach and Speaker

Work-life balance isn’t about splitting time evenly.

30 Mar 2026 · 1 min

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In this segment, Ben Morton challenges the common notion that work‑life balance means dividing time equally between work and personal life. He argues that true balance can only be achieved when individuals are clear about their core values and allocate their time and energy in line with what matters most to them. Recognizing that values differ for each person, he introduces a straightforward exercise he uses with leaders: identify five to six core values that guide all areas of life, not just work. This exercise serves as a foundation for aligning daily actions with personal priorities, enabling a more authentic and sustainable sense of balance.

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And the second challenge with work-life balance is even more important. You see, you can't really define balance unless you're clear about what matters the most to you. In other words, understanding your core values. Because balance isn't about splitting your time evenly between work and life, or work and everything else. It's about allocating your time and energy so that it's in line with the things that matter the most to you. And that will be different for each of us. Here's a really simple exercise I use with myself and share with all of the leaders I coach and train. So, start by getting really clear on your 5 or 6 core values. The things that truly matter the most to you in all aspects of life, not just work.