Here's how you can balance work and life while advancing your career in the gaming industry.

It’s easy to lose sight of personal time in the pursuit of goals, so maintaining balance is key to staying productive and, more importantly, avoiding burnout. The advice to establish and stick to working hours is simple yet effective.

One of the toughest lessons I learned was how to say “no” to things that didn’t align with my goals. In the gaming industry, there’s always something going on—events, networking opportunities, or side projects—and it’s easy to feel like you have to be involved in everything to stay relevant. But I learned that saying yes to every opportunity just spread me too thin. Instead, I started being more selective, focusing only on the things that I knew would contribute to my long-term growth.

It's easy to get sucked into a project and be head down for what seems like days before coming up for air. Booking yourself calendar slots (with reminders) or alarms with notes is a great way to give yourself the time you need to step away, clear your head, stretch your legs, whatever it is you need to do for a refresh.

Continuing to learn is vital for balancing work and life while advancing your career in the gaming industry. Pursuing online courses, attending workshops, or engaging in community events keeps your skills sharp and relevant. This ongoing education can be integrated into your schedule, allowing you to learn at your own pace without overwhelming your daily routine. Additionally, joining forums or networks can provide valuable insights and support from peers. By dedicating time to personal growth, you not only enhance your expertise but also boost your confidence and job satisfaction, making it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance while progressing in your career.

Networking is vital not only for sales but for everyone in the mobile gaming industry. The community is relatively small, and you never know when a past connection might prove mutually beneficial. Don’t hesitate to reach out to industry leaders – they’re often friendlier and more willing to help than you might expect. Attend events, both online and in-person, as much as you can. Ask questions and listen – people enjoy talking about themselves, and you’ll often gain more insight than you anticipated. Remember, networking is a long-term investment. Maintain connections through follow-ups and by engaging with content. Genuine interactions build trust and foster long-lasting professional relationships.

100% to flexible working. If you work from home, find the times of the day when you're most productive and lock in that time for your most focused work. Block it out in your calendar so your colleagues know not to book meetings when you're in the zone. Equally, share when you're free and most effective for group meetings.