Every Man’s Hack To Finding Balance: How Personal Time Impacts Your Marriage and Career

We've all been there or probably still there: caught between deadline pressures at work and a spouse who misses quality time together. They may even argue that we were more around at the early days of the marriage than now but how do we sincerely express that we’re having a hard time finding a balance between building a successful career and being the ever loving husband? It’s exhausting! Meanwhile, you are getting out of shape too because your fitness class keeps getting pushed to "next week." Personal time often feels like a luxury many men can't afford and they are constantly experiencing burnout. But here's the truth I was able to learn very early in marriage: making time for yourself isn't selfish, it is in fact essential for both your marriage and career success. I decided to share these life hacks that have helped me win in marriage and career. I hope this helps you find the balance you need to excel in your career and marriage too. Cheers! Why Will Your Personal Time Cost You More? When was the last time you did something just for you? If you're struggling to remember, you're not alone. Recent studies suggest that over 60% of professionals feel guilty about taking personal time, viewing it as a detriment to their productivity or relationships. However, this is not true! As someone who values productivity myself, I can tell you for a fact that your choice to incorporate personal time can either make or mar you. Think of personal time like recharging your phone or PC. You wouldn't expect your gadgets to run indefinitely without power, so why expect that from yourself? Impact of Personal Time on Marriage Your relationship with your spouse can suffer in subtle ways when you don't prioritize personal time and these two major categories detail the experience of many men who struggle with finding a balance. The Overflow Effect - Your work stress often spills into home life because you do not have personal time to decompress. - Your wife becomes an emotional dumping ground rather than a companion - Conversations between the both of you revolve around complaints rather than connections The Dependency Trap - You begin to rely solely on your spouse for emotional fulfillment and that creates unhealthy pressure for her. - You loss your individual identity outside work and that breeds resentment - Your shared experiences become less meaningful because you don't have personal stories to bring to the table Effect of Personal Time on Career Surprisingly, you would later find out that the personal time you have been skipping to take on more work can hinder rather than help your career growth. You’ll experience; - Decreased creativity and problem-solving abilities - Higher risk of burnout and reduced productivity - Limited perspective due to lack of diverse experiences - Diminished emotional intelligence from constant work focus 4 Proven Life Hacks: Practical Steps to Reclaim Your Time & Find Balance 1. Start Small Don't aim for dramatic changes immediately, it won’t happen in a day or a week either. Begin with 15-30 minutes of dedicated personal time daily. Maybe it's reading a book during lunch instead of answering emails, or taking a morning walk before diving into family responsibilities. Make sure you have time to pause, reflect and refresh. 2. Schedule Like It's Non-Negotiable You have not had control of your personal time because you are yet to set and prioritize your boundaries. You can no longer continue to say “yes” to everything. Block out personal time in your calendar and treat it with the same importance as you would a client meeting. Your family and work colleagues will also need an update so make sure to communicate these boundaries clearly. 3. Quality Over Quantity The corporate world typically thrives on quantity e.g the number of hours you spend at work and you are probably used to that by now. However, to make your personal time count, you must learn to choose quality over quantity! Choose activities that truly rejuvenate you, focus on being fully present rather than multitasking and vary your activities to engage different parts of your personality. 4. Create Win-Win Scenarios The aim of finding balance is to ensure you can win in both afterall. We don’t want your career or spouse to suffer at the expense of your newly created personal time so it’s okay to create win-win scenarios as you grow. Look for opportunities where personal time can benefit multiple areas. You can join a professional networking group that aligns with your interests, take up a hobby that can become a family activity or use exercise time to listen to industry podcasts Making It Work: Activities You Should Add to Your To-Do List This Week For Your Marriage: - Share your personal time goals with your spouse - Encourage them to pursue their own interests - Use personal growth as conversation starters rather than a work scenario. - Plan activities that allow both together time and alone time. Ask them to join you in the planning. . For Your Career: - Set clear boundaries around work hours. Work stops when work closes. - Use personal experiences to enhance workplace creativity - Join an hobby group - Develop skills during your free time that complement your career The Benefits of Personal Time For Men When you prioritize personal time, you'll likely notice: - More energy for both work and family - Fresh perspectives on problems - Increased patience in challenging situations - Better emotional intelligence - Stronger sense of identity It's Okay To Have “Me-Time”! Remember, personal time isn't a selfish indulgence, it's an investment into your relationships and career success. Start by identifying one area where you can create time for yourself this week. Maybe it's waking up 30 minutes earlier for meditation, or blocking out your lunch hour for a hobby. Make sure to take the first step this week! The key is consistency over perfection. You might miss a day or need to adjust your schedule, but keep returning to the practice of prioritizing personal time. Your marriage, career, and most importantly, your well-being will thank you for it. By making personal time a non-negotiable part of your routine, you're not just improving your own life: you're setting an example for your spouse, colleagues, and anyone else watching you navigate the delicate balance of modern life. To read more valuable tips that will improve your life as a man, check www.ayodejianifowose.com

Thanksgiving 2024: 6 Ways Dads Can Create A Beautiful Experience with their Family This Thanksgiving

When the crisp November air settles in and the leaves paint the streets in warm hues of amber and rust, you just know it’s Thanksgiving and the holidays are here! As a dad myself, I wrote this article for every modern father; hoping it convinces you to spend Thanksgiving this year as a moment of reflection, connection, and deep appreciation for the gift of the beautiful family you have been blessed with. Cheers ! 6 Heartwarming Ways Dads Can Create An Unforgettable Thanksgiving This Year Thanksgiving is more than just a hearty variety of meal. It's an opportunity for fathers to connect deeply with their families, create lasting memories, and show their love in meaningful unforgettable ways. As the family's anchor, you have a unique responsibility of transforming a regular holiday into an extraordinary experience of love, gratitude, and togetherness. Here are 6 tips to help you prepare: 1. Make it a Meaningful Gratitude Tradition Thanksgiving lies in appreciation, and dads can maximize this to create a powerful gratitude tradition. Consider implementing a family gratitude practice that goes beyond the dinner table: - Create a "Gratitude Wall" where family members can pin notes about what they're thankful for throughout the week leading up to Thanksgiving - Prepare a special gratitude journal where each family member writes a heartfelt message - Use dinnertime as a moment for each family member to share their most meaningful moment of the year This practice not only creates a beautiful family moment but also teaches children the importance of gratitude and expressing appreciation. 2. Be Involved and Involve Everyone in Meal Preparation Decide to change your Thanksgiving cooking this year into a bonding experience. It no longer has to be a chore, transform meal preparations into a fun, collaborative family activity that everyone including yourself is involved in; - Assign age-appropriate cooking tasks to children - Create a family recipe station where older kids can learn family traditions - Make cooking a playful experience with music, friendly competitions, and storytelling - Share family cooking stories and heritage while preparing the meal together By making cooking a shared experience, dads can create memories that last far beyond the holiday meal. 3. Create A No-Screen Time For The Holiday It’s harder to maintain true connection at the table or anywhere else if everyone has their neck deep into their phones or devices. Making this year’s Thanksgiving a special one requires intentional effort. Dads can lead by example by creating a dedicated time where no one uses or touches their phones: - Establish a "no phones at the table" rule - Organize family games that encourage interaction - Plan outdoor activities like a family walk or backyard football game - Create storytelling sessions where family members share memories and experiences Children will never forget these moments of undivided attention, even your spouse would relish the moment. 4. Develop a Family Giving Back Tradition Thanksgiving is beyond personal gratitude, it often involves community and compassion too. Dads can help their families develop a sense of social responsibility by: - Volunteering together at a local food bank or community center - Preparing care packages for homeless shelters - Organizing a family donation drive for local charities - Discussing the importance of community support and empathy This approach teaches children valuable lessons about gratitude, privilege, and social responsibility. 5. Capture and Preserve Family Memories Make sure no moment goes extinct this Thanksgiving! Capture and record moments of family love, fun and connection: - Create a video montage of the day's highlights - Take family photos - Create a Thanksgiving folder on your Google Drive - Encourage every member of the family to contribute their perspectives and memories These preserved memories become precious treasures that family members will cherish for years to come. 6. Plan Intentional Private Moments While family time is crucial, individual connections matter equally. Dads can create special moments with each family member: - Schedule short, intentional conversations - Plan small activities with individual children - Listen actively and show genuine interest in their spouse - Express personal appreciation for each family member's unique qualities These individual moments of connection strengthen family bonds and make each person feel truly valued. Thanksgiving Most Important Recipe The most important "ingredient" in any Thanksgiving celebration is not the food on the table, but the love, laughter, and connection shared between family members. By being present, creative, and genuine, modern fathers can transform Thanksgiving from a simple holiday meal into a beautiful family experience. This Thanksgiving, approach the holiday with intentionality and genuine love as you make efforts to transform a traditional celebration into memories that will be remembered for a long time.

The Successful Boss & Husband: The Corporate Gentleman's Guide to Keeping Your Marriage Strong

As a high-powered executive climbing the corporate ladder, you know all too well the demands of a career-focused lifestyle. Long hours, constant travel, and a never-ending stream of business obligations can take a serious toll on even the strongest of marriages. However, maintaining a healthy, thriving relationship with your spouse is not only important for your personal fulfilment - it can also pay dividends in your professional life. Studies show that employees who have a strong support system at home are often more engaged, productive, and resilient in the workplace. So how can busy working professionals like yourself nurture the marital bonds while also achieving success in your career as a corporate executive? Here are seven essential tips for striking the right work-marriage balance: 1. Prioritize Quality Time Together It's all too easy to get swept up in the unending demands of the corporate sector, but intentionally carving out quality time with your spouse is equally important. Whether it's a weekly date night, a weekend getaway, or simply an uninterrupted hour of conversation each evening, making your marriage a priority demonstrates your commitment and communicates to your spouse that they are a major part of your life you never want to miss out on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2. Communicate Openly and Honestly Effective communication is the bedrock of any strong relationship. Be proactive about checking in with your spouse, sharing your feelings, and working through conflicts in a healthy manner. There will always be rocky moments but never be afraid of being vulnerable or opening up your struggles to her. This will also strengthen the intimacy between you because they know you consider them a safe space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3. Divide Household Responsibilities The demands of running a household can be a major source of stress, especially for dual-career couples. Have an open discussion with your spouse about handling chores, childcare, and other domestic duties in a way that feels fair and manageable for both of you. If you can afford it, try outsourcing every major household chore that could demand your time. This will help prevent undue pressure and resentment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4. Maintain Intimacy Physical and emotional intimacy are essential for keeping the spark alive in your marriage. Make time for lovemaking, affectionate gestures, and quality conversations. Your job will naturally try to force you both into a passionless routine but you have to be intentional about keeping the spark alive in your marriage. This may sometimes require you to schedule it into your calendars. Never compromise on small acts of romance and sensuality as they can go a long way in sustaining your marriage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5. Align on Financial Goals Money is one of the biggest sources of marital conflict. Have practical discussions about your financial situation, spending habits, saving goals, and plans for the future. Getting on the same page can prevent a lot of stress and arguments down the line. . . . . . . . 6. Celebrate Small Wins In the midst of high-pressure careers, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of big achievements. But don't forget to celebrate the little victories, both personally and as a couple. Appreciating the small moments can help you stay grounded and grateful. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7. Seek Support When Needed Don't be afraid to lean on family, friends, or even professionals when you're struggling to balance work and marriage. Having an objective sounding board or outlet for stress can make all the difference. Marriage counselling, in particular, can be hugely beneficial for couples navigating challenges. The corporate executive life is undoubtedly demanding, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can absolutely have it all - a thriving marriage and a successful career. By prioritizing your relationship, communicating effectively, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can be the successful boss and husband: poised, powerful, and perfectly paired.

5 Fun Activities Every Dad Needs To Try Out For A Stronger Father-Child Bond

The bond between a father and his child is a very special one that needs to be nurtured and cherished. Those moments of laughter, discovery and quiet connection are the heartbeat of fatherhood and the foundation on which healthy relationships are built. However, as a Dad with busy work schedules - competing priorities between career, marriage, friends and other interests, it can be quite a hassle trying to consistently carve out quality time to nurture that father-child relationship. Starting this week, make it a point to clear out your schedules for family time- focus on activities that will strengthen your bond with your little ones. Not only will these experiences create beautiful memories they'll forever cherish, it’ll also help support your child's social, emotional and cognitive development in meaningful ways. Here are five fun, exciting activities to try this weekend: 1. Outdoor Adventures Getting out in nature is one of the best ways to connect with your kids. You can plan a hiking adventure at a local park or nature preserve for just you and them. This would serve as a great opportunity to encourage your children to use their senses to observe the world around them. For example, try asking questions about the colors of the leaves, the sounds of the birds, the textures of the tree bark. Don't forget to go with a picnic lunch for meal breaks you can enjoy together in designated spots for rest, gists and more play time. You can also turn your backyard into a mini outdoor oasis. Pitch a tent and go camping in the safety of your own home. Roast marshmallows over the grill, stargaze, and tell bedtime stories. This low-key staycation allows you to slow down and be fully present with your children. . .. . . . . . 2. Arts and Crafts Experimenting with art projects and hands-on crafts is a wonderful way to build your child's creativity while strengthening your bond. Set up a dedicated art station with paper, markers, crayons, glue, scissors and other kid-friendly supplies. You can decide to draw pictures, make greeting cards for mummy, or construct sculptures out of modeling clay.It’s even more fun when you allow them to chip in one or two ideas they would like to recreate. For a special keepsake, have your children make personalized gifts for extended family members, like homemade picture frames or refrigerator magnets. The process of designing and creating something meaningful will fill them with pride. And you'll end up with a tangible reminder of your quality time together. . . . . . . 3. Cooking Getting your kids involved in the kitchen can be both educational and enjoyable. Bake cookies, decorate cupcakes, or prepare a healthy meal together. Narrate each step of the process and let your children take turns measuring ingredients, mixing batters, and decorating the finished products. Not only does this nurture and encourage their culinary skills, it also provides opportunities to talk, laugh and bond. You can even let them be the "chef" and have you follow their lead. Watching their confidence grow as they direct the cooking process is going to be so much fun for everyone. . . . . . . 4. Drama Show Encourage your children's theatrical side by planning and acting out a living room performance. Gather props, costumes and a simple stage setup, then let your children showcase their singing, dancing or comedic talents. You can even get in on the action by joining them in a family talent show. To make it memorable, record the performances on your phone so you can replay the memories later. Your kids will beam with pride seeing themselves in the cute little shows, and you'll also treasure those videos for years to come. . . . . . . . . 5. Physical Activity Physical play is essential for a child's development, and it's a fantastic way to bond with your children. You can decide to spend an afternoon tossing a ball back and forth, racing each other in the backyard, or attempting an obstacle course you've created together. This gets their bodies moving and allows you to be silly, playful and fully engaged. You can also introduce new sports or activities that you can learn as a team. Try flying a kite, riding bikes, or playing frisbee at the park. The most important thing is finding ways to be active, have fun, and create shared experiences that nurture your father-child connection. No matter the activities you eventually settle for, the most important thing is being present, patient and engaged. Make sure to put away your gadgets, silence notifications, and resist the urge to multitask. This dedicated one-on-one time will show your children that they have your undivided attention and that you cherish these moments together. As you strengthen your bond through these exciting experiences, you'll witness your children's confidence, creativity and sense of security blossom. They will also navigate adulthood with priceless memories that will last a lifetime.

Fatherhood and Future CEOs: How Modern Dads Shape Tomorrow's Business Leader

Fatherhood and Future CEOs: How Modern Dads Shape Tomorrow's Business Leader Anyone who isn't a newbie to the corporate sector would agree that innovation, leadership strategy, and technical skills continue to dominate conversations, serving as a powerful force quietly molding the future of business: Fatherhood. Modern fathers play an essential role in developing the next generation of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Beyond executive boardrooms and quarterly reports, the wisdom and core values taught by fathers at home create lasting impacts that will shape the future of workplace culture, business ethics, and leadership development. Here are 6 crucial ways father figures influence the business world and contribute to building a stronger future for corporate leadership: 1. Instilling Core Values That Define Ethical Leadership In an era where profit margins often overshadow empathy and “people first" approaches, ethical business leadership has become increasingly crucial. Fathers hold a unique position in teaching their children fundamental values like integrity, personal responsibility, emotional intelligence, and mutual respect as qualities essential for sustainable leadership practices. When fathers demonstrate ethical behavior and accountability at home, they establish the foundation for future business leaders who will prioritize principled decision-making over short-term gains. Consider how a father's emphasis on fairness and transparency in daily interactions shapes future leaders. This influence creates individuals who understand that authentic success extends beyond financial metrics to include ethical business practices and stakeholder respect. By cultivating these qualities, fathers are developing future executives who will champion ethical leadership and corporate integrity. 2. Developing Resilience and Adaptability Skills The modern business environment constantly evolves, making resilience a critical leadership skill. Fathers serve as primary role models in teaching resilience by demonstrating effective ways to handle setbacks, embrace organizational change, and persevere through professional challenges. Whether showing their children how to recover from failures or encouraging persistence through difficulties, fathers exemplify the importance of mental toughness and adaptability. Leaders who learned resilience early are better equipped to navigate market disruptions and uncertainties with strategic thinking and emotional stability. Fathers who emphasize resilient leadership raise children who readily adapt to workplace demands, contributing to more agile and future-ready organizations. 3. Fostering Innovation Through Natural Curiosity Business innovation starts with curiosity, and fathers can nurture this quality by encouraging exploration, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving. Fathers who promote a growth mindset help their children view challenges as opportunities for learning and innovation. This foundation of curiosity and innovative thinking proves invaluable in modern business, where creative solutions drive sustainable growth. By cultivating natural curiosity, fathers influence the development of future entrepreneurs and business innovators who will transform the corporate landscape. 4. Demonstrating Effective Work-Life Integration As organizations increasingly prioritize employee well-being and work-life balance, fathers play a vital role in modeling these values at home. Fathers who actively balance career success with family time, personal health, and clear boundaries demonstrate to their children that professional achievement includes maintaining overall well-being. This balanced leadership approach helps children understand that executive success encompasses both career accomplishments and personal fulfillment. These future leaders are more likely to champion workplace wellness initiatives and create corporate cultures that prevent burnout. 5. Encouraging Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Fathers who educate their children about respecting and valuing diversity prepare them to become inclusive business leaders in our global economy. By exposing their children to diverse perspectives, cultures, and ideas, fathers help develop appreciation for the innovation that diversity brings. This foundation of inclusive leadership is crucial for creating equitable workplaces where all employees thrive. Future executives who grow up understanding diversity's value are more likely to implement inclusive business practices, foster collaborative environments, and lead with cultural intelligence. Fathers who emphasize inclusivity help build organizations that embrace diversity as a competitive advantage. 6. Building Purpose-Driven Leadership Exceptional business leaders focus beyond profit margins to create positive social impact. Fathers can instill this sense of purpose by encouraging community service, social responsibility, and big-picture thinking. Fathers who demonstrate generosity and compassion inspire future leaders who will prioritize stakeholder value and sustainable business practices. Children who are raised to understand corporate social responsibility become business leaders motivated beyond financial metrics. They drive positive change, develop sustainable business models, and create meaningful impact. Fathers who nurture this purpose-oriented mindset contribute to a future of conscious capitalism. Fathers Are Leaving A Lasting Legacy In Business Leadership And It Begins With Me "As a father to my four amazing daughters, one of my greatest responsibilities is helping them understand how the business world continuously evolves. Change remains constant, and I'm committed to ensuring they develop the leadership skills needed to thrive in tomorrow's business landscape." A father's influence extends far beyond family life, encompassing roles as mentor, role model, and leadership guide for the next generation. The leadership qualities, business ethics, and professional skills that fathers impart shape not only their children's success but the future of corporate leadership. Fathers are the architects of tomorrow's business leaders, instilling the right values for a more ethical, resilient, inclusive, and purpose-driven business ecosystem. In our increasingly connected business world, fatherhood's impact on leadership development remains profound. By instilling qualities like business ethics, leadership resilience, innovative thinking, work-life balance, diversity appreciation, and purposeful leadership, fathers raise not just successful individuals but contribute to a more sustainable and equitable business future. As we recognize fathers' contributions to leadership development, we must acknowledge their vital role in shaping a business world that values both profit and purpose, people and progress, innovation and integrity. Fathers, your impact on future business leadership is immeasurable, and your role in creating a better corporate future is undeniable.