Balancing her career with her role as mom often leaves Kristen stretched for time and energy. “But I’m fortunate to be doing work that I love and also to be around my children,” she stresses. Instead of trying to be supermom, she reminds herself that she doesn’t have magical powers and can’t do everything all the time. Kristen laughs, “We run late a lot, there are always tons of laundry to do, and the kids’ lunches are not cut into really cool shapes. But, you know what? That’s OK. I’ve learned that it’s all right to ask for help – we use a baby sitter; I totally understand why the Brady Bunch had Alice.”

Laughing, Kristen admits that she isn’t the best at carving out time for herself. “I’m not the greatest at self-care, but I have friends who are and they reel me in when I need to recharge.” She recommends scheduling time for yourself just like any other appointment, and sticking to it. “Whether it’s a long coffee break or grabbing some cocktails with your girlfriends – I just remind myself how much better it makes me feel and that motivates me to make room for it.”

Her experience as wife, mother and businesswoman has given Kristen a refreshing perspective on life. Among her top tips to live by: “Always have a sense of humor. My philosophy is, if there is anything a parent desperately needs, it’s a good laugh. I know if we weren’t laughing sometimes, we’d probably be crying. Besides, laughing is better for your heart – and your smile lines!” Her most-cherished moments of motherhood are spent doing just that. “I love the times when my family is together and we’re all just having fun, just being ourselves and all acting like kids again.”