“I keep a strong work-life balance by being honest about my capacity and protecting the space I need to recharge. Travel advising is a service role, so it can be easy to slip into always being available. I’ve learned that I show up better for my clients when I set clear boundaries for my time, block off downtime on my calendar and actually stick to it. I also build in travel for myself, since experiencing the world helps me reset and reminds me why I love this work. That mix keeps me grounded, energized and able to serve at a high level.” Scott Wismont, CTIE, founder of Rainbow Getaways Travel Network
“As a mother of three boys with VERY active sports schedules, creating a daily schedule of tasks/workflows is a lifesaver for running my business/family life effectively. Sticking to it every day is CRUCIAL and helps to keep my ‘squirrel syndrome’ under control. Automations built into my CRM are my best friends. No need to worry about sending out CC authorizations or T&C’s while I’m watching my kids playing on the fields. Build out the processes and take control.” Stephanie Strauch, agency owner of C&C Travel Agency
“I’ve learned that balance is not about perfection but intention. As a business owner, mother of five and travel business owner, I protect my time by setting clear boundaries, leveraging automation and support systems and giving myself permission to rest without guilt. I have a non-negotiable business schedule, and I schedule personal time the same way I schedule client work, because showing up well for others requires showing up for myself first. Travel, family, reflection and community keep me grounded and inspired.” Iris Martin, founder and CEO of Surreal Journeys Travel
“I work flex hours. For example, on the weekly evening when there is no one in the house, I work late, completing the next day's tasks so that I then have free time the next day to jump in the pool or go to lunch with a friend or just read a book. It is also important not to over-promise deliverables to a client. Putting undue pressure on yourself to immediately complete a price quote or itinerary can increase your stress. I make sure to tell clients when they can expect to hear back from me. Setting the expectation helps me to manage my time and gives the client confidence in my reliability.” Kevin Harris, owner and cruise advisor for CABIN BOYS TRAVEL
“Early in my business I tried to be available all the time, and it was leading to burnout. Now I use a calendar to schedule time for proposals, client calls and webinars, and I sync my work and personal calendars so family time stays protected. I also stopped chasing every trip that lands in my inbox. I focus on the travel I plan best, and when a request is not a fit, I offer a few tips or a referral. Clear boundaries keep my workload manageable and help me show up calm and thoughtful for both my clients and loved ones.” Niya Harris, luxury travel advisor for Fly Escapes Travel
“The way I maintain a strong work-life balance is much the same as how I structure out my week at work: by planning ahead. I enjoy having things to look forward to, so I try to create and find opportunities to go to exploring where I live in Atlanta and when I’m on vacation — concerts, restaurants, sporting events, to name a few. It keeps me motivated and provides built-in reasons to work hard so that I can reward myself with things that bring me joy.” Evan Greenberg, content and PR manager for WorldVia Travel Network
“Work–life balance is never a perfect science, especially in travel advising where seasons ebb and flow. There are times when work requires full focus, and others when life throws curveballs and needs to take priority. I’ve learned that balance shifts daily, weekly and monthly — and that’s normal. Having supportive systems in place helps prevent overwhelm and guilt when one side demands more attention. I also set one non-negotiable for work and one for personal life each day, whether it’s completing an itinerary or getting to the gym. Reflect on balance, but don’t stress about perfecting it — it evolves with you.” Sarah Cherkinian, travel designer for Aaberg Travel Design
“I maintain work-life balance by planning my life the same way I plan travel: with intention. I set clear office hours, protect my personal time and build systems that keep me from doing everything manually. I batch client work, automate follow-ups and schedule buffer days around high-demand seasons. I also prioritize movement, family time and at least one “no-work” block each week to reset. Travel reminds me that rest is productive — when I’m recharged, I show up sharper, more creative and more present for my clients and community.” Lovie Johnson, travel advisor for Lovie Jay Travel
"In the realm of upscale and luxury travel, maintaining a work-life balance is all about structure and gentle boundaries. I work strictly by appointment unless an emergency arises, which I handle as needed. I also block out dedicated times in my calendar for focused tasks and maintain standard office hours from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET — unless clients are traveling and need support outside those times. This approach helps me ensure that my clients receive top-tier service while I maintain a healthy balance." Nora Sommerkamp, VTA, CCC, founder and CEO of Travelkunst LLC
“Work-life balance became real when I built my business to run on systems, not stress. Automation and clear workflows handle the repeat tasks for me … inquiry responses, client intake, quote follow ups, payment reminders and document delivery. That structure is effective and efficient. I also protect my time with firm boundaries, and I only check email three times a day. When I am working, I am focused. When I am off, I am truly off. Automation does not replace my personal touch. It makes room for it.” Laticia Jacobs, founder and CEO of Travel Concierge Partners
Originally appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of The Compass magazine
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