Richard Branson's Secret to Happiness and Massive Success

In the world of entrepreneurship, Richard Branson is a truly titanic figure.

Know for his vibrant personality, ample charisma, and massive financial success, Branson is a role model for self-starters around the world.

His umbrella company, Virgin Group, currently controls over 400 other companies in an array of different industries.

Yeah, only 400.

From airlines, to cell phones, to music, Branson has a hand in almost anything you can think of.

Not only is he successful, but Richard Branson also feels fulfilled as a person. The man has it all — but what's his secret?

The answer is simple, but surprising. Entrepreneur Kimanzi Constable explains:

So often in life, we get caught up in all the things we have to do. We have business projects and clients clamoring for attention, family obligations and 100 other things. Juggling what seems urgent makes our work-life balance nonexistent. That's why the “life” part has to come before work or business. If you only focus on work or business, every other area of your life will suffer. You will wonder why you started a business or a demanding career in the first place.

Richard Branson is a great example of how to have the proper work-life balance. He often talks about this idea of “work and play.” He shares valuable tips on his blog about how to keep what’s important in perspective. Branson recommends limiting how often you check email and social media, making time for family and friends, waking up early and planning.

You can call it “hustle” or another new age term but, in the bigger picture, working from early in the day to late at night is work-life imbalance. Build time into your schedule for resting and fun activities. Adopt the “work/play” attitude that Branson talks about and that you see him living.

You can read more about maintaining a healthy work-life balance over at Entrepreneur.