Finding Balance: A Conversation with Janet H. Ethington

Janet H. Ethington is a woman who wears many hats—Human Resources Manager, mentor, wife, hiker, pottery enthusiast, and community volunteer. She lives in Riverton, Utah, a quiet town with scenic views and access to some of the best trails in the Wasatch Mountains. At around 48 years old, Janet has figured out something a lot of us are still working on: how to live a full, balanced life.

I spoke with Janet about work, life, and the things that keep her grounded. Her answers were thoughtful, down-to-earth, and filled with quiet wisdom.

“I think people just want to feel seen and heard,” she said early in our conversation. “That’s true in the workplace, at home, and even on a trail.”

From Office to Outdoors

Janet started her career in Human Resources after getting a degree in business administration. She’s worked in a mix of industries—from healthcare to manufacturing. Her focus has always been on people.

“I like helping people figure out problems,” she said. “Not just work problems, but human ones—how to grow, how to feel valued.”

In her current role as an HR Manager, Janet handles employee relations, talent development, and conflict resolution. Her style is calm and direct. She believes in fairness, communication, and consistency.

“I try to lead with honesty and empathy. That’s how you build trust.”

Outside of work, Janet finds peace in nature. She hikes often, usually on weekends, and says the mountains are where she clears her head.

“My favorite hikes are the ones that end at a lake. There’s something about water that helps me breathe deeper.”

Hiking isn’t just a hobby for her—it’s part of how she resets. “It’s my time to be quiet and reflect. No noise, no emails, just sky and trees.”

Family First

Janet is also a wife and mother. Her family is her anchor, she told me.

“I can have the hardest day at work, and the moment I step into my house and see my family, it all makes sense again.”

They spend time together hiking, cooking, or just relaxing. “Sometimes we just sit around and talk. That’s enough.”

Her home life gives her the strength to keep going. “My family reminds me of who I am. When things get chaotic, they help me stay grounded.”

Giving Back

One of the things that stands out about Janet is how much she gives to her community. She volunteers for local charities and nonprofits. She helps with food drives and school support programs. And she mentors younger professionals just getting started in HR.

“Giving back is part of who I am,” she said. “We’re all part of something bigger. If I can make someone else’s path a little smoother, I want to do that.”

She believes mentorship is especially important. “When I was younger, I had people who helped guide me. I try to pay that forward.”

Her advice for anyone starting out? “Be kind, but clear. Know your values. Learn to listen.”

A New Passion

A few years ago, Janet signed up for a pottery class on a whim. It quickly became a new passion. Today, her home is filled with bowls, vases, and mugs she’s made herself.

“There’s something meditative about shaping clay,” she said. “You can’t rush it. It teaches patience.”

She doesn’t do it to sell or show off. It’s just for her. “It’s okay to do things just because they make you feel good.”

Pottery, like hiking, gives her space to slow down. “We spend so much time moving fast. Pottery helps me stay present.”

Keeping It Simple

What struck me most about Janet is how simple her philosophy of life is. She isn’t chasing status or titles. She’s not trying to impress. She just wants to be useful and stay true to herself.

“I think a good life is about showing up—for your job, your family, your community, and yourself. If you can do that, you’re doing okay.”

She doesn’t claim to have all the answers. But she has clarity about what matters to her. And maybe that’s enough.

“I don’t need to be perfect,” she said. “I just want to be real.”

In a world where people often rush toward the next big thing, Janet Ethington is walking a different path—one with more stillness, more thought, and more heart.

And maybe we could all learn a little from that.

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