Recently, I had drinks with a co-worker and we were commenting about the incredible length of the Democratic primary. But after we vented about our own particular views - we did circle back and take notice that a woman and an African American were running for the Presidential nomination.” To think that 40 years ago, African American youth were attending separate schools and women were only supposed to be teachers and nurses. I think I've been so caught up in the detail statistics (and the price of gas) that I neglected to take notice of just how far we have come.

We have more options and choices today on EVERYTHING. Both sides of the work-life equation have a tremendous number of variables. Every day is a rebalancing act requiring that each of us have an incredible sense of honesty about our personal vision/aspirations to even get started.

On the personal front - There really aren't any “supposed tos” or “must dos”….. What a change from childhoods comprised of -“you will get married and have children and take care of your parents” to “what do you want to experience out of life; how do you want to contribute to the state of the global environment and what does family mean to you?” On the work front - we have tons of choices - fast track, telecommute, job share, on-ramp, off ramp, work from home - we may not like them but they're there!

There is a keen awareness about the increasing pressure everyone faces. The amazing thing is that both employers and employees understand the codependence between each other and have a true desire to make it a positive, productive and rewarding relationship. We know this as we watch millions of corporate dollars being spent on helping employees find “the right balance” either thru work-life, inclusion, health and wellness and yes, flexible work.

Truth is that many companies are trying to do something….but in reality it's not enough if it doesn't resonate with each of us individually. Clearly a company can't tailor a program to each individual employee. But perhaps thru a shared responsibility - we as individuals can be smart about who we choose as our employer and what it is they offer that can make a difference in how we structure our lives.

For some people it's about finding a way to take those 8-12 hours work days and not just make it about doing a job but about contributing to something larger in our lives and in the world around us? Some people compartmentalize their personal and work lives and others (like me) let it blend all together. Generationally - boomers burn the night oil no matter what…but GenXers just get it done. In the end- isn't it the same thing? Some managers see things on a results only basis and others see issues as journeys. Some managers invest emotionally in their team's individual success - others rally around the bottom line.

For me personally, I don't have a very sophisticated answer…each day is an organized sprint and I surround myself by those who share similar goals/vision as I do! I invite you to share your story, your work-life secrets to success - or please feel free to comment on how you think the work-life equation is “rebalancing".