Ep. 118 - Work-life Harmony: the Key to Engineering Success - Interview with James Taylor

Finding harmony between your work and personal life is a challenge many face. In this episode, James Taylor joins Dr. James Bryant to share his insights on achieving fulfillment in both areas.

Here’s a bit about James’ passion:

K. James Taylor, Jr., PE, is a licensed Professional Engineer and an Associate Vice President at Verdantas, an emerging environmental, engineering, and technical consulting company with a green, sustainable, and people-first approach in the foreground. James has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering in the land development and municipal fields. Land Development services include the design of subdivisions and site plans for compliance with local codes and ordinances, civil/site engineering, stormwater management, road design, and utility design.

James was selected as the 2021 Young Engineer of the Year by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Delaware Section. James serves as the President of the Delaware Engineering Society and also served as the New Professionals Director on the NSPE Board of Directors from 2021-2023.

 

[00:00 – 08:15] Balancing Changing Life Priorities and Seasons

Life priorities shift through different seasons, adapt accordingly Don't get stuck operating based on a previous season

[08:16 – 12:15] The Importance of Self-Care and Work-Life Harmony

Self-care enables you to show up fully for others Make time for relaxation and rejuvenation Aim for work-life harmony, not perfect balance Blend work and life together like melody and harmony in music

[16:18 – 24:06] Speaking Up and Asking for Help

Reached a breaking point of taking on too much at work Company supported when he finally spoke up and asked for help Asking for help requires vulnerability but shows strength Don't try to independently solve everything

[24:07 – 35:49] Leadership Development and Communication

You are responsible for your own leadership development Read books and find mentors to help you grow Know your team members' communication styles Meet with your team regularly to set goals

 

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Key Quote: 

"Work and life are never in balance. They work together. You have a melody and you have a harmony and they play against each other." - James Taylor