Today on Take Five we talk work-life balance with my dear friend, Arminé Gambaryan. She is an Account Manager for MLM — a company managing the lives of the rich and famous. Arminé manages business affairs for some of the wealthiest in the entertainment industry including celebrities, writers, and producers.

Outside of work, Arminé never misses a workout and she is a regular contributor to Thrive Global. Naturally, our shared love for health and wellness is the reason I asked if we could feature her on She Takes Five! Today we pick her brain on how she balances it all — plus some of her favorite things to support a healthy lifestyle.

Did you always know you wanted to be an Account Manager? How did you end up in your role?

I accidentally ended up in Business Management.  I had graduated from college in 2009 in Communication Studies and I was applying to roles that fit my degree.  A friend of mine was working at a Business Management firm in Los Angeles and they were looking for a receptionist.  She told me about the open position, I applied and got the job. 

Within one year, I was promoted to Assistant Account Manager. I worked hard, learned the business, and became an Account Manager within four years.  After ten years invested in this business, I know I made a solid career choice!

What do your responsibilities look like as an Account Manager?

 My firm focuses on clients in the entertainment industry.  On my desk, I have actors, writers, directors, producers, comedians, models, and high-net-worth individuals. Clients trust us with managing their finances, taxes, managing their employees, and ensuring all business affairs are handled diligently and timely. The day I got hired, one of the partners said to me: “This job is 20% accounting and 80% personality! You got the personality.”

What do you love most about your job?

The clients and the quarterly financial meetings we have with them.  It doesn’t feel like work when we’re laughing and having a good time. Also, I got lucky because four of the ladies I work with are now my dear friends.

Do you have advice for anyone trying to break into your industry?

Ask questions and manage your time wisely. In Business Management you are juggling a lot of moving parts especially if a client is filming and/or working on a major project.

What career advice would you give your younger self?

Enjoy the journey and don’t be afraid to take risks.

How do you support your health and maintain work-life balance?

I workout consistently and meditate. When I’m extremely stressed I’ll take a long walk or cook myself a delicious pasta meal. It’s my favorite comfort food.

Favorite fitness regimens?

Pilates, yoga, jumping rope, and boxing. 

Do you have a favorite healthy snack?

Almond butter with Granny Smith apples.

What’s your go-to easy meal?

Sauteed onions, spinach with quinoa, and baked salmon with tarragon on the side.

Beauty product you cannot live without?

 Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Mask. I use it 3X a week for noticeable results.

Are there alternative health treatments you enjoy?

I go to acupuncture once a month. It has helped with my seasonal allergies, stress, sleep, and adapting to the dry air in Denver.

A book that has had the biggest impact on your life?

Losing My Virginity by Richard Branson. It’s amazing to read his life journey and understand how he made a name for himself.  His approach to becoming a successful entrepreneur makes you realize that it is possible with motivation and dedication.  He’s had a few failures, however, that never discouraged him to stop. 

Favorite place to vacation?

Greece! I love the culture, the beaches, the food, and island life.

Do you have hobbies, activities, or creative outlets that help keep you balanced?

Recently, I bought a coloring book, and gosh it took me back to being a kid again.  It made me so relaxed and calm. I also love to bake, exercise, hike, travel, and write! I’m a contributing writer for Thrive Global.

Additionally, in my spare time I love going to art galleries, museums, botanical gardens, and oh have I missed Broadway shows, opera, and the ballet!

I’ve also created two new verbs: hammock-ing and spa-ing. 

Who inspires you?

Michelle Obama, Sheryl Sandberg, Oprah, Kamala Harris, Mel Robbins, Arianna Huffington.  These powerful women continuously break the glass ceiling and pave new paths for women.

Do you have a favorite playlist to listen to while working?

I usually like to have complete silence when I’m working as I do not like distractions. However, during my workouts, Latin music all the way!

How do you take five?

Luckily, I have a little balcony and anytime I need to take a quick breather, I step outside for some fresh air.  I’ll take the stairs to my mailroom and back up to my apartment to get moving.  And when my iWatch tells me “to stand up,” I do 30 jumping jacks each time.

Who would you take 5 with?

You! We would bake all your delicious recipes and swap mental health notes.

Connect with Arminé:

LinkedIn