Achieving Harmony & Hustle:
The Hummel Way
By: Heather Stoffer
In the ever-evolving landscape of my career, navigating the delicate dance of work-life balance has proven to be the most challenging act. I’m no stranger to the fact that many companies throw around the term “work-life balance” as a buzzword without truly embodying its essence. However, my journey led me to Hummel, a risk management firm that not only aims to exceed expectations in the industry but also places a profound emphasis on fostering a unique culture—which I’ve endearingly termed “harmony and hustle.”
Hummel’s approach is more than just lip service. It’s deeply rooted in a set of twenty core principles that describe the behaviors distinguishing Hummel from its competitors. At its core lies the delicate equilibrium between work and home life. Having guiding principles in one’s daily life has always struck me as a key to success. When I delved into the world of insurance and discovered Hummel’s core values, I was instantly drawn to this agency, sensing a philosophy that resonated with my own aspirations. Achieving a harmonious work-life balance is crucial for my mental well-being. I believe that I can excel in my career while fulfilling my most important roles as a wife and a mother to my two growing boys.
During my twelve years serving in the United States Air Force, the focus on the collective well-being of the team was ingrained into me. Whether sleeping beneath aircraft or ensuring a fellow airman’s basic needs were met, the commitment to each other’s welfare was unwavering. Transitioning from military service to a civilian career, I found solace in my own personal principles: integrity, service, and excellence. Integrity is a non-negotiable standard. I firmly believe in holding a steadfast commitment to always doing the right thing, no matter the audience. This steadfast dedication to ethical conduct serves as a pillar of trust, creating a foundation on which professional relationships are built.
Service goes beyond the confines of a job description; it’s a mindset. I strive to bring the spirit of serving others with an open heart into every aspect of my civilian career. Whether it’s assisting colleagues, engaging with clients, or contributing to the community, service fosters a positive and collaborative work environment. Excellence is a refusal to settle.
The pursuit of excellence is not merely an aspiration; it’s a refusal to accept anything less. The refusal to settle for mediocrity becomes a driving force, ensuring that every client is the ultimate beneficiary. While integrity, service, and excellence must be part of a successful workplace culture, they must be balanced with the well-being of its employees to achieve true “harmony and hustle”.
The emphasis on work-life balance goes beyond rhetoric—it’s a vital component for maintaining mental and emotional wellness. Chronic stress, a common byproduct of imbalanced lifestyles, can lead to burnout, which is detrimental both to individuals and the organization.
Companies prioritizing work-life balance witness higher retention rates and elevated employee satisfaction, contributing to overall organizational success. Higher retention rates benefit our clients by fostering long-term relationships and stability. Joining Hummel marked a pivotal moment for me—a workplace that recognized the sanctity of personal time. Unlike past roles where professional obligations encroached on family time, Hummel embraced the notion that downtime is sacred. The ability to recharge without work calls during family time became a defining feature of a work culture I fell in love with.
Long-term sustainability for companies requires a prioritization of work-life balance, enabling individuals to perform consistently over time. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these elements allows employers to cultivate a culture genuinely supporting and valuing its employees. Hummel’s foresight of not carrying work home and respecting employees solidifies my commitment to a future with the company—a workplace valuing both professional excellence and personal fulfillment. There is no “perfect” employer, but I’m so glad to be part of a workplace culture that stands the test of time—where harmony and hustle pay dividends to both the employee and the client.
Read the full Spring 2024 newsletter here.
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