Balancing the Grind with Alejandra Cerball, Journalist, Writer & Travel + Lifestyle Blogger

Alejandra Cerball is a journalist, writer and travel + lifestyle blogger, with more than 10+ years of experience sharing stories on TV, print, online, and social media.

1) To kick things off, could you tell us a little about your career background and current role?

My career as a journalist started in Los Angeles, where I learned the ins and outs of the news industry. My professional journey took me to Arizona, San Diego, San Francisco, and Hawaii. I’m a seasoned storyteller with more than 10+ years of experience sharing stories on TV, print, online, and social media.

I currently work as a writer, helping brands build trust with their audience through creative storytelling and content writing.

I also run alexcerball.com, a travel + lifestyle site where you’ll find travel inspiration for your bucket list, motivation + mindset ideas for a healthy life, and smart conversations with female entrepreneurs creating their own rules of success.

2) What does a day in the life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday?

Every day is different. Since I create my schedule, I have a lot of flexibility as long as the work gets done. I generally wake up around 7 am, eat breakfast, and watch the news.

I spend the morning writing articles or blog posts, responding to emails, and pitching stories. In the afternoon, I go to the gym, swim at the pool, or go on a bike ride. When I’m travelling, I try to finish assignments before my trips, but sometimes I have to spend a few hours on my holiday finishing up an article.

3) Does your current role allow for flexible or remote working? If so, how does that fit into your life and routine?

Yes, I’m a writer, and I can work from anywhere as long as I have a reliable wifi connection and my computer. Quality of life is essential to me, and I enjoy the flexibility of being able to travel and work remotely.

4) What does work-life balance mean to you, and how do you work to achieve that goal?

It’s important to stay organised and figure out a schedule that suits your lifestyle. For me, that includes making time for my partner, family, and friends while staying on top of deadlines.

I like to write in the morning and go to the gym in the afternoon. If I can’t make it to the gym, I use an app called Downward Dog to do yoga at home. I love spending time surrounded by nature, going to the beach, or hiking up a mountain.

I also think that eating a healthy balanced diet fuels me with energy throughout the day. I’m a big fan of smoothies made with lots of fruits and vegetables.

5) What do you think are some of the best habits or routines that you’ve developed over the years to help you achieve success in your life?

• Know your worth. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.
• Keep your to-do list in a place that you can access from anywhere (like a google doc) and be very realistic about what you can accomplish in one day.
• Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get everything done, finish what you can.
• Invest in yourself. Take an online course, try something new or freshen up your skills so you can better market yourself.

6) Are there any books that have helped you improve over the years?

I love the The Spirit of Life by Niaby Codd, and whenever I feel unmotivated, I go to the library and pick up a copy of anything that Jen Sincero wrote. Her books can be read in one day and will give you an extra boost of confidence so you can get back on track and focus on your goals.

7) What is the number one thing you do to make sure you get the most out of your day?

I drink plenty of water and listen to my body when it’s time to rest.

8) If you could read an interview about work-life balance by anyone, who would that be?

I love writing and sharing success stories about female entrepreneurs. I’ve learned so much from all the women I’ve interviewed. I’d be curious to learn how Sara Blakely or Reshma Saujani balance it all.

9) Do you have any last thoughts on work, life, or balance that you’d like to share with our readers?

I believe that time is such a valuable resource. It’s up to you to make the most of it! You hold the key to designing your dream life. It’s never too late to step out of your comfort zone and start doing what you always dreamed of accomplishing.

Be confident enough to start that business you’ve been dreaming about or take that solo trip that’s been on your mind.

Whatever you do, don’t spend years of your life working for a boss who doesn’t believe in your potential.

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