How many hours should I give to my career?

A friend of mine shared with me that a coworker of his arrives at work by 8:00 a.m. each morning and never leaves before 8:00 p.m. each night; additionally, he has a one hour commute each way. 

Question:  Does this person have the proper work/life balance? 

Answer:  I don't know.

Striking the proper balance is unique to each individual

and is completely tied to what each of us most value.  If you want to    become a doctor, you will work the hours necessary and more.  If you are involved in starting a new company, or perhaps you are taking a company public, again the hours can be many.

The key point is that you have the freedom to choose how you spend your time, and, in turn, the outcomes that the time spent will generate in your life.  I believe you are out of balance when any one aspect of your life receives too much of your time and attention, thus causing you to hurt other things you value (i.e. relationships, health, mind, spirit etc.)

Tip:  If your internal voice is telling you that you are out of balance, then you must look at how you are spending your time, compare it to what you value, and make the appropriate adjustments.