Mastering the Art of Work, Family, and Self—A Mom’s Perspective.

Althea Battle, Lead HR Business Partner at American Family Insurance (AFI), serves as a strategic partner to business leaders, helping to shape people strategies that drive engagement, performance, and growth.

“My work centers on collaborating closely with leaders to help their teams grow, stay engaged, and feel supported. I focus on connecting people strategy to the heart of the business—ensuring employees feel valued and set up for success,” she tells Fairygodboss. “I love being in a role where I can help shape a positive culture and create space for people to bring their whole selves to work.”

Althea has been with AFI for over five years. Previously, she worked as an HR Business Partner for a healthcare services organization specializing in post-acute care management, doing similar work.

What she loves most about working at AFI is its people-centered culture and genuine care for employees, she explains. AFI’s culture has allowed her to show up as her authentic self, “as an HR professional, mother, wife, and daughter,” without feeling guilty about any of it.

“I have the flexibility to manage my schedule in a way that works for my life, and I can lead with empathy and encourage others to do the same,” she explains.

Here, we caught up with Althea to talk about what her day-to-day schedule looks like, how she manages it wisely, and how she makes sure to show up as her full self in all aspects of her life. Here’s what she had to say.

Paint a picture of a typical day for me. What’s the first thing you do when you wake up and the last before you go to sleep?

My day starts with sitting by my window overlooking my front yard and two beautiful oak trees. I take a few deep breaths, write down three things I’m grateful for, journal my prayers, and meditate for five minutes using the Calm App with Jay Shetty. I practice 20 minutes of yoga, Pilates, or Qigong to get my energy flowing, and then I walk my dogs. After breakfast and tea, I’m ready to start my workday.

Before bed, I take a relaxing shower with lavender soap, write in my reflection journal about the day’s highlights and energy drainers, pray, and read a good book until I fall asleep.

What does “balance” mean to you, and in what ways do you feel like you’ve achieved it?

Balance isn’t about having every part of my life perfectly aligned; it’s about being present and giving the right energy to what matters most in the moment. Some days, that means giving 150% at work; other days, it means closing my laptop early to make dinner, FaceTime my daughter, or walk my dogs before sunset. I don’t always get it right, but I’ve found my rhythm by setting boundaries, nurturing my well-being, and letting go of the pressure to do it all.

One important boundary I’ve set is not working on weekends unless it’s critically urgent. Weekends are for family, fun, rest, and recharging.

Attaining work-life balance can’t be done solo. What people, resources, and tools do you rely on to get it all done?

Balance starts with my family, who keep me grounded and remind me what matters most. Practically, I rely on my Panda Planner, Outlook calendar, and to-do lists. I’m also getting used to Planner Tasks on Teams and am starting to love it.

I also take advantage of AFI’s wellness benefits, especially Personify, which offers life coaching and walking challenges that motivate me. I’m active in several Business Resource Groups (BRGs), especially the Women’s BRG—which has provided invaluable support, including open discussions on topics like menopause—and the Caregiver BRG, which helped me navigate caring for my aging mother and my daughter, now a college freshman. I truly appreciate how much AFI cares about employee well-being.

What’s one misconception you’ve found exists around work-life balance today?

A common misconception is that work-life balance is something you achieve and maintain perfectly. In reality, it’s not a destination but a daily practice. Life shifts, priorities change, and what balance looks like today might not look the same tomorrow.

What’s your go-to stress-relief activity or routine?

Lighting a candle, listening to instrumental music (especially flute and saxophone), and dancing to my favorite 70s, 80s, or 90s music.

Why do you think AFI is a particularly great place to be a working parent?

AFI is a great place for parents because the company’s culture is rooted in care. The same values that guide how we serve customers are reflected in how we support employees. There’s a genuine commitment to flexibility, understanding, and well-being that allows parents to show up fully at work and at home. The benefits are excellent, and the employee resource groups create a real sense of community and support.

What type of programs does AFI offer to new and expectant parents?

All new parents are eligible for eight weeks of paid parental leave, which can be taken all at once or in full-day increments. There are also mothers’ rooms, childcare resources, and a supportive Caregiving Resource Group.

What are you especially good at as a mom? What about at work?

As a mother, I am especially good at creating a sense of calm, love, and belonging. I strive to make my daughters feel seen, heard, and supported at every stage of life.

At work, I bring these same qualities. I am good at listening deeply, creating safe spaces, connecting people, and helping others see their potential. Whether guiding a leader through a tough decision or celebrating team wins, I lead with empathy and intention.

What’s your #1 tip for new moms/parents who are navigating the delicate balance of working and mothering/parenting?
Give yourself grace! There is no perfect formula for balancing work and motherhood—just seasons, moments, and choices that align with what matters most to you. Motherhood and your career are not competing priorities; they are both parts of your purpose.

What advice can you offer to other moms/parents expecting their first child?