Balancing Executive Success and Family Priorities in Today’s Business World
Finding equilibrium between professional demands and family life remains one of the greatest challenges for today’s business leaders, particularly in fast-paced industries where constant innovation is essential.
“Time with my family is always going to be a top priority,” says a successful serial entrepreneur who has built multiple nationwide fitness brands. “Achieving work-life balance in this fast-paced culture isn’t easy, but it’s certainly possible with careful consideration and effort.”
Anthony Geisler, whose entrepreneurial journey began shortly after graduating from the University of Southern California, applies the same disciplined approach to family time that has made his businesses successful. A 2019 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year recipient, Geisler implements strategic time management techniques to ensure family remains central despite his demanding schedule.
With multiple business ventures and philanthropic commitments, Geisler creates “non-negotiable” time blocks reserved exclusively for family. This includes refusing meetings before his daughters’ school drop-off and blocking calendar time weeks in advance for weekend activities and his children’s events.
“I am so busy that if I am not planning then my time will naturally be taken up by work, so I need to create some set time with my family,” Geisler explains. “This means looking ahead and making space for what is most important.”
These challenges aren’t unique to Geisler. Research from Pew Research indicates that 38% of working parents believe their careers make it harder to be good parents. The key, according to successful executives, lies in intentional scheduling and maintaining firm boundaries.
Beyond scheduling, quality of engagement matters. Whether through family dinners, game nights, or neighborhood walks, Geisler emphasizes being fully present during family time—leaving work distractions behind.
His commitment to family extends to his philanthropic endeavors, which often focus on children and education. In 2024, the Geisler family unveiled a state-of-the-art multipurpose library and learning center at The Pegasus School in Huntington Beach, nearly doubling the school’s existing library space.
“We see the Geisler Family WINGS building as a beacon of inspiration and growth, embodying our dedication to nurturing individual talents and fostering a lifelong love of learning,” noted Geisler at the dedication.
For executives seeking similar balance, time management experts recommend identifying core values, establishing clear boundaries, and being fully present in whatever role you’re occupying at the moment—whether business leader or family member.
As work cultures continue evolving post-pandemic, leaders like Geisler demonstrate that executive success and meaningful family engagement can coexist with proper planning and prioritization.