Welcome back to another empowering episode of Superheroes in Heels! I’m Kimberley Borgens, and today I’m tackling a hot topic I believe every ambitious woman in business needs to hear: Do you have to work less to find balance, or is it okay—maybe even necessary—for some of us to embrace working more on our own terms? In this episode, I share my personal journey as a CEO and entrepreneur who’s often told to cut back, to chase the ideal of a 3-day workweek. But what if that model simply doesn’t fit your business—or your dreams? I take you inside a recent conference where this message was everywhere, and I had to ask: What if I don’t want to work less? What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeRedefining AmbitionThe conversation focused on breaking free from generic advice like “work less, live more,” especially when that advice is delivered as if it’s the gold standard. I get vulnerable about why ambition drives me, and how my life experiences—including growing up with financial uncertainty—shape my work ethic and desire to create lasting stability. Work Ethic vs. BusynessA key theme that emerged was the distinction between genuine, productive effort and simply looking busy for others' approval. There’s a huge difference between being occupied and being intentional with your time. I challenge the myth that the number of hours you work determines your success, and instead invite you to consider: Are you investing your energy in ways that truly move you forward? Seasons of Business and LifeThe discussion explored how every businesswoman goes through different seasons. Sometimes you need to hustle and put in more hours to gain new skills, build relationships, or lay the financial foundation for long-term growth. Other times, it may be right to step back and focus on your health or family. I share practical, real-life strategies for setting boundaries, including how I managed “no work Tuesdays” to prioritize family—without sacrificing business growth. Permission to Define Your Own SuccessOne concept discussed was the power and necessity of creating your own definition of success. Whether your driving force is financial independence, freedom, making an impact, or building a legacy, only you can decide the right path for you. You aren’t less ambitious if you work fewer hours; you aren’t more worthy if you work yourself sick. It’s about being intentional and making those choices consciously. Honest Reflection—And Powerful QuestionsTo help you get clarity, I walk you through five self-reflection questions designed to evaluate what you’re really working for, whether your efforts are producing the results you want, and if there are things you’re avoiding by staying “busy.” I talk candidly about the difference between being driven versus using work as an escape—encouraging you to dig deep, not just for productivity but for real, fulfilling growth. The Importance of Relationships & Continuous LearningSeveral points were raised, including the value of seeking out relationships with people who push you to grow, volunteering for projects strategically, and continuing to learn so you become more valuable to your team and business. It's not just what you do, but who you do it with and how you approach opportunity. If you’re tired of one-size-fits-all business advice, or ever felt guilty for craving more from your career, this episode was made for you. I’m not here to tell you to hustle harder—or to take it easy if that’s not right for you. I’m here to help you ask the right questions, define your own path, and unapologetically own your ambition. We’re all at different stages and have unique motivations—for some, it’s providing for family, for others, it’s freedom or legacy. My goal in this conversation is to lift that veil of shame and help you confidently claim your vision, your workstyle, and your future. I want you to leave today knowing you have the power to choose. You can be a devoted mom, a loving partner, and a fierce businesswoman striving for financial security—all while rejecting cookie-cutter approaches. Whether your path is a 3-day workweek or 60-hour weeks as you build your empire, your success is yours to define. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with me inside the Hive Hangout at KimberleyBorgens.com. Share your journey, tell me how you’re redefining success, and let’s continue to inspire and support each other as Superheroes in Heels. Mentioned in this episode: Superheroes in Heels is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork eWomenPodcastNetwork