Practical Strategies for Making Both Career and Family Thrive
By Heather Holmes, CEO & Founder of Publicity For Good
As a mom of three under three, a wife, a homesteader, and the CEO of a purpose-driven PR agency, I’m often asked: “How do you make it all work?” The truth is, I don’t believe in perfection. What I do believe in is alignment: choosing rhythms, boundaries, and strategies that allow both family and career to thrive side by side. Here are a few practical approaches that have made a difference for me:
1. Define Your “Why” for Both Roles
When the demands of work and motherhood collide, clarity is what sustains me. Knowing why I run Publicity For Good (to amplify brands with purpose) and why I prioritize my family (to create a legacy of love and faith) keeps me grounded. Having a clear purpose for each role helps you make decisions faster and with less guilt.
2. Create Rhythms, Not Rigid Schedules
Balance isn’t about giving equal time to everything, it’s about creating a flow. I’ve learned to structure my days in rhythms: mornings dedicated to family and homestead, afternoons to clients and team, evenings back to my kids and husband. Flexibility makes it sustainable, while rhythms give enough structure to thrive.
3. Embrace Support and Delegation
We weren’t meant to do everything alone. At home, that might look like asking for help with childcare or trading tasks with your partner. At work, it’s empowering your team and trusting them with ownership. Letting go of “doing it all” frees you to focus on what only you can do.
4. Protect Boundaries with Purpose
Every “yes” is also a “no.” I’ve learned to be intentional with what I commit to: whether that’s a client, an event, or even an extracurricular for my children. If it doesn’t align with our family values or my company’s mission, I say no. Boundaries don’t limit you, they sustain you.
5. Allow Grace for Imperfection
Some days, the homestead chores pile up or an email goes unanswered. That’s real life. Instead of striving for flawless balance, I remind myself: my children need a present, authentic mom more than they need a perfect one. Grace for yourself is as important as any strategy.
6. Integrate Family Into the Journey
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that your career doesn’t have to pull you away from family, it can include them. My kids grow up seeing me build something meaningful, and that itself becomes part of their story. Whether it’s involving them in homestead tasks or letting them see how I lead my company, integration makes both spheres richer.
Final Thoughts:
Thriving in both career and family isn’t about chasing balance, it’s about weaving the two together with intention. When your work reflects your purpose and your family reflects your deepest values, you don’t have to choose. You can build a life where both grow, strengthen, and inspire each other.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
