In her keynote session, titled “Curating Your Life: Ending The Struggle For Work-Life Balance,” Gail Golden explained that the widely accepted idea of work-life balance is a persistent myth that leaves many professionals feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. Using personal stories and corporate examples, she encouraged leaders to adopt a life-curation approach that focuses on making intentional choices about how to spend their time and energy.

Gail introduced a relatable framework based on the role of a museum curator, guiding attendees to identify their current life priorities, eliminate non-essential tasks, and accept being “good enough” in areas of lesser importance. She emphasized that this mindset shift helps leaders reclaim their creativity, resilience, and leadership presence while reducing stress and inefficiency.

She also addressed common internal barriers, including the critical inner voice she called the “obnoxious roommate,” and explained how managing guilt, learning to say no, and focusing only on tasks that require personal leadership unlock greater success. Gail encouraged leaders to focus on doing what only they can do, while empowering their teams and releasing unnecessary pressures.

Her presence at the leadership summit served as a timely reminder of the need for leaders to redefine productivity and embrace a healthier, more focused approach to leadership. Gail concluded by inviting attendees to take a straightforward action toward curating their lives more intentionally.