How do you balance time off for training in the NG / Reserves?

Although I don't know your work climate, I would say your family is correct. Just because you can legally take off the time you need for the military doesn't mean you should. Regardless of who chimes in after me, employers take Guardsmen and Reservist for employment with a high risk because of what you are mentioning. They probably don't want to hear your excitement about going either. Employers can easily find out if you volunteer constantly or are voluntold. Sure they get a tax incentive, so what? Just wait till you start getting tagged for training here and there that you don't want to go to. It all adds up. Now, if you fancy a HOOAH OER once a year go for it.

What would you tell a Soldier in your PLT?

It all depends on what you want out of all this and what is most important to you. If your current civilian job is a long term goal on your list then consideration needs to be taken to ensure you grow in it accordingly. Yes, the perception is reality is very true in the civilian workplace, aside from all the legalities, you are perceived as unreliable and inconsistent, they might not be able to legally fire you but good luck on their consideration of you. If you really care about both careers then communication with your civilian supervisor is key and ensure he knows it's not just time off but actual training and work you are doing. The more they understand your service the more supportive they are. I personally had to deal with this in the past 4 years when I was given two commands back to back as an Mday and trying to finish law school, study for the bar and ensure my civilian employer kept faith in me while I was gone for all these sudden Commander emergencies. Since my employer was so considerate of my absence I ensured I came in on my weekends to make up all the work I was unable to do. I did not have much time off between both my careers but manage to fulfill both responsibilities and continue to grow in the military and legal field.

It's always going to be a balancing act! If you enjoy your civilian career and aspire to go further treat it like you do your Army career. Forward plan and set goals, and make sure you communicate with your supervisors that you have those desires. I left a rewarding but stressful job in the mental health field for a federal job. I absolutely love my job now in the respect I give them orders I leave come back and the show goes on. Unfortunately it isn't very rewarding. My take on the Army has always been "do it while I'm young!" I have enjoyed taking on the extra opportunities as an LT regardless if it was a school I might not of had a ton of desire to go to or multiple rotations at NTC. All great learning experiences! If you really enjoy what your doing now there's going to have to be some give and take between careers.