SPECIAL: Shoutout Atlanta Spotlight

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Martinez LPC, CPCS and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

Work-life balance has evolved into something much more intentional for me over the years. Early in my career, especially while building my therapy practice, I felt a constant pull to be available, responsive, and driven around the clock. I was working ten hour days! Like many entrepreneurs, I equated success with sacrifice—and often, that sacrifice came at the expense of personal time and connection.

With time, experience, and a few hard lessons in burnout, I began to redefine what balance really means. I stopped chasing a perfect split between work and life and started creating a life that reflected my priorities. I learned the difference between what is “urgent” and what is “important.” Travel became one of my greatest teachers—stepping away from my usual routine and immersing myself in new places reminded me to slow down, reflect, and return reenergized. Fitness is another core value. Movement keeps me grounded, focused, and better equipped to hold space for others in my work. And most importantly, family is my compass. They remind me of who I am outside of my professional identity.

Now, I view balance as a practice, not a destination. It’s not about doing everything at once—it’s about aligning my time, energy, and choices with what matters most. That mindset has changed the way I approach my schedule, my priorities, and how I define success—not just in my career, but in my life.

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