On Transitioning from Overworking to Values-Aligned Living

CLIENT INSIGHTS — From Aleca Hughes McPherson

and

Apr 24, 2024

I’m thrilled to introduce my client, Aleca Hughes McPherson, Head of Portfolio and Platform at Highland Capital Partners. Aleca came to me 2 years ago seeking guidance during a significant transition in both her personal and professional life. Together, we focused on moving away from patterns of over-performing and over-achieving to embrace a new way of working that aligned deeply with her values and priorities. I hope you find her insights valuable.

Thank you, Aleca!

— Amanda

A promotion and shift in scope, responsibilities, and organizational dynamics occurred at a time when my life was in full transition. I’d had my first son, was pregnant with my second, and was grappling with a seismic shift in my day-to-day life.

Achievement had always been my North Star—driving me as an athlete and in my startup career, where perseverance and grit were highly rewarded. But with my new role and family dynamics, I realized over time that this approach was no longer working.

The Wake-Up Call

A realignment began after a series of painful experiences—like choosing a work call over a critical parenting moment. These choices, driven by my old value set, led to a guilt that was unsettling, forcing me to confront the need for change. This change took time.

I intellectually understood that my drive for achievement, impact, and validation—while once extremely beneficial—was now misaligned with my current life. But the process for me was about recognizing the feelings of misalignment, particularly in those after-the-fact moments that left me questioning my priorities.

Time for Change

Intellectually registering the need for change was one step; emotionally and physically embodying this change was another. Slowly I began to reshape my daily behaviors, shifting from a relentless grind to establishing smarter, values-aligned work habits.

“It meant redefining what “good” looked like, not by doing more but by being more strategic and intentional in my actions.”

This shift was about enhancing how effectively I could work without compromising my role as a mother, partner, and leader. It meant redefining what “good” looked like, not by doing more but by being more strategic and intentional in my actions.

A New Way of Leading

When I reflect on this transition it reminds me of shifting from grinding in high gear to smoother cycling—less friction, more enjoyment. This new approach not only made me a better listener and creative thinker but also enhanced my role as a leader. By stepping away from a hyper-focused achievement orientation, I became better at facilitating cross-functional buy-in and navigating complex stakeholder dynamics.

The change was noticeable, not just to me but to my family, friends and colleagues. They saw me become more grounded and centered, better able to focus on what truly matters—both professionally and personally.

Today, I feel like I engage more deeply and meaningfully in all aspects of my life. I’m more effective and satisfied.

“Success can look different now than it did before—it’s about what’s important today, not yesterday.”

My Advice for Others

For those facing similar life and career transitions, my advice is to reflect on what matters most in your current chapter. What daily behaviors will help you align with your true priorities?

Embrace these changes with humor and without judgment. Success can look different now than it did before—it’s about what’s important today, not yesterday.

It's a continuous process of adjustment, reflection, and embracing the new rhythms that each life stage brings.