For many women in Salesforce, achieving a work-life balance can seem like an elusive goal. With the fast-paced nature of the tech industry and the pressure to excel in a male-dominating occupation, it can be challenging to find time for personal life and self-care. However, it's possible to take control of your work-life balance. 

For many women in Salesforce, achieving a work-life balance can seem like an elusive goal. With the fast-paced nature of the tech industry and the pressure to excel in a male-dominating occupation, it can be challenging to find time for personal life and self-care. However, it's possible to take control of your work-life balance. 

In this article, we’ve asked some of the hardworking women in the Focus on Force team to share some actionable tips and strategies for you – including how to set realistic goals, establish healthy boundaries, prioritize self-care, and most importantly, know when it is time for you to move on to a new job. Read on to be inspired by how our team members gracefully work through life.

Nivedita Jha

Product Owner, Focus on Force

“When I was pregnant, I was forced to resign from my previous organization as they believed I wouldn't be able to fulfill my duties. However, instead of letting this setback bring me down, I applied to five companies that accepted my pregnancy without doubting my capabilities.

It was a challenging time for me as I was new to Salesforce, and I started my journey when I was halfway through my pregnancy. I took on an entirely new skill while I was in one of the most difficult stages of my life. I even attempted my first Salesforce certification just two weeks before giving birth.

While learning Salesforce, I took every day as a new challenge, and there were moments when I felt alone, especially due to postpartum depression. However, I want to let other working new moms know that it's normal to feel this way.

I struggled to balance my personal and professional life with this new development, but my family's constant support and encouragement helped me persevere. My colleagues also played a crucial role in my success. They appreciated my work, showed empathy, and encouraged me every step of the way. Thanks to their support, I overcame my personal and professional obstacles. 

Now, after almost a year, I am standing tall, smiling, and shining with a Salesforce certification and a nine-month-old baby. I hope my story inspires other women to never give up on their goals, no matter how challenging life gets.”

Vidyalakshmi Srinarayana

Product Owner, Focus on Force

“In my opinion, family, work, and social life are the three primary areas of focus for women. When push comes to shove, women can only effectively concentrate on two of these pillars.

We cannot do everything; it always requires sacrificing one thing to attain the other. So, choose your priorities - it will keep you grounded and sane. If your priority is your family, you can still be progressive in your work but may have to be less ambitious. Conversely, if you prioritize your career, you may have to take a step back from your family or social life to meet the increasing demands of your job.

Additionally, it's important to prioritize other aspects of your life, such as self-care, fitness, and health, as they require high levels of discipline. We need to stick to a routine, no matter how monotonous it seems. 

The best way to tackle this is to split your life into immediate plans, short-term goals, and long-term goals. By doing so, you can ensure that you're focusing on the areas that matter most to you without neglecting other essential aspects of your life.”

Megan Tuano

Founder, Salesforce Professionals Discord Server

“You have to find time for yourself. As women (especially if older/married or with kids), we typically tend not to make ourselves the priority. 

I was fortunate enough to participate in an all-women accountability class last month, and the experience was truly inspiring. So make time for yourself - spending a few hours at the coffee store, at a park, or working out. You need to know there’s time for you to be a better you. 

And remember, you're not alone. Speak to other women in the ecosystem, and join groups for accountability or relationship building. Being surrounded by inspiring women can give you the boost you need to focus on yourself and achieve your goals.”

Achieving work-life balance as a woman in Salesforce can be challenging but not impossible. The reason it can be overwhelming sometimes is that we know we are capable of doing it all. However, it should not cost us our time for self-care. To achieve balance, it is crucial to establish your boundaries, seek help when needed, leverage technology, prioritize self-care, and learn to say no when necessary. 

Remember, finding balance is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so take the time to experiment and find what works best for you.

— Monica