Do you ever feel like work has become too important—or maybe not important enough? In this episode of the Make Work Not Suck podcast, co-hosts Daniel Steere and Ryan Hodges, joined by special guest Maria Dobreva, dive deep into how to find the perfect balance between your personal and professional life.

We explore why work can consume your identity, the dangers of being “always on,” and how to spot when work is overtaking your life—or not fulfilling you at all. With real stories and actionable tips, we’ll help you break free from the traps of over-attachment or disengagement, and find the work-life harmony that makes work (and life) not suck.

Topics Covered:

• [00:00] Introduction: Are You Always “On”?
• [03:45] When Work Becomes Too Important: Stories from the Frontlines
• [10:12] The Cost of Over-Attachment to Your Job
• [17:18] The Other Side: Why Work Feels Meaningless
• [24:02] Discovering Your Motivating Pillar: Vision, Journey, Culture, or Results
• [30:45] Strategies for Leaders, Managers, and Employees to Find Balance
• [40:00] Closing Thoughts: Making Work and Life Better

Key Takeaways:

1. For Leaders: Develop recovery strategies and balance work with personal passions. Recharge spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically for a healthier perspective on work.
2. For Managers: Balance caring for your team with caring for yourself. Support employees in finding meaning while ensuring you’re not overextending your own limits.
3. For Employees: Take a PTO day to reflect on what you value most in life and work. If your current role doesn’t align, work with your manager to make adjustments—or find a role that does.

Don’t let work run your life—take charge and make it meaningful. Listen in for the tools and mindset shifts to create balance and purpose in your career and beyond.