Finding Balance: A Conversation with Janet H. Ethington

HR leader, mentor, and mountain hiker, Janet H. Ethington shares how simplicity, service, and self-awareness have shaped a life rooted in purpose and balance.

In a world that often glorifies hustle and speed, Janet H. Ethington moves at a different pace—one defined by clarity, care, and connection. At around 48 years old, she has built a life that harmonizes professional responsibility with personal fulfillment. Based in the peaceful town of Riverton, Utah, Janet wears many hats: Human Resources Manager, wife, mother, mentor, hiker, pottery enthusiast, and devoted community volunteer. Each role is lived with intention.

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

From Office to Outdoors

Janet began her career in Human Resources after earning a business administration degree. Over the years, she has worked across healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries. But her core focus has always remained the same: people.

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

As an HR Manager, she handles employee relations, talent development, and conflict resolution with a calm, fair, and honest leadership style. “I try to lead with honesty and empathy. That’s how you build trust.”

When the workday ends, Janet finds restoration in nature. The Wasatch Mountains provide her with more than just a scenic escape—they offer peace. “My favorite hikes are the ones that end at a lake. There’s something about water that helps me breathe deeper.” Hiking, for her, is more than physical—it’s spiritual. “No noise, no emails, just sky and trees.”

The Heart of Home

Family is the anchor in Janet’s life. Married and raising a family, she finds comfort and strength in her home life. “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.”

Their time together is simple—hiking, cooking, or unwinding with conversation. “Sometimes we just sit around and talk. That’s enough.” For Janet, those quiet moments are the most grounding. “My family reminds me of who I am.”

A Commitment to Giving Back

Janet’s definition of a meaningful life extends beyond her own home. She is deeply committed to serving others, volunteering for food drives, school support programs, and local nonprofits. She also mentors young HR professionals beginning their careers.

“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.”

Mentorship, in particular, holds a special place in her heart. “When I was younger, I had people who helped guide me. I try to pay that forward.” Her advice to those just starting out: “Be kind, but clear. Know your values. Learn to listen.”

The Pottery Wheel

A few years ago, Janet enrolled in a pottery class on a whim. Today, her home is decorated with hand-shaped bowls, vases, and mugs—each piece a reminder to slow down.

“There’s something meditative about shaping clay,” she explained. “You can’t rush it. It teaches patience.” Pottery, like hiking, is not about perfection for her—it’s about presence. “It’s okay to do things just because they make you feel good.”

A Simple, Strong Philosophy

What stands out about Janet isn’t just how much she does, but how deeply she lives. She’s not chasing titles or external validation. She’s chasing peace, purpose, and alignment.

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

She doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but she does have perspective. “I don’t need to be perfect,” she said. “I just want to be real.”

In an age of constant striving, Janet Ethington’s story is a gentle reminder: balance isn’t found in doing more—it’s found in doing what matters, and doing it with heart.