It can be tough — some say impossible — to achieve harmony between work and family when you’re in real estate. That’s especially the case if you’re looking to expand your business. But there are techniques that can help. Here’s how some of the top producers in our Real Data rankings tackle the problem of balancing the office and the home. 
“My entire team works very hard, so delegating and planning our business strategies together, helps me balance my schedule to keep consistent throughout the year.” Jennifer Mills, leader of the Home Discovery Team at Jameson Sotheby’s International — No. 19 in Chicagoland and No. 14 in Cook County
“There is no balance. You want to be the best? You have to make sacrifices. And that means there’s no balance. It’s just the truth. You can’t have it all. You got to give up your free time, friends, and family time to succeed. I am not saying you have to give it all up, but you have to know that there will be no perfect balance if you want to be successful.” Matt Laricy, managing partner of The Matt Laricy Group at Americorp Ltd. — No. 2 in Chicagoland and Cook County
“At the beginning of every day I put together a list of things I would like to accomplish that day. I identify the most urgent activities and make sure to tackle those first. At the end of my workday, I do a brief assessment of what was accomplished and what still needs to be done. When I leave work, I feel organized and in control, which then allows me to focus more on ‘me’ and my family when I’m at home.” Robert Picciariello, managing broker of Prello Realty in Chicago — No. 14 in Chicagoland
“Balance is for gymnasts, not someone wanting to make it to the top of an incredibly talented and competitive field of Chicago real estate professionals. It’s next to impossible to have balance. If you aren’t available, the client will fill their needs with another agent unless you bring something really special to the table.” Emily Sachs Wong, owner-operator of ESW Luxury at @properties in Lincoln Park — No. 4 in Chicagoland and No. 3 in Cook County