my best to do is prioritize work-life balance with intentionality. I try to set clear boundaries, delegate effectively, and recognizing that rest is as critical as hard work. For junior professionals, my advice is to define your non-negotiables— whether it’s family time, exercise, or personal growth—and schedule them with the same priority as work commitments. I also encourage them to find mentors who model balance and to remember that taking care of yourself ultimately makes you more effective in your role. Cole: What things you do in your spare time enable you to be a more effective leader in your professional life? Gardner: In my free time, I prioritize activities that restore my energy and broaden my perspective. From mentoring emerging leaders, photography, and teaching graduate courses in technology leadership at the University of Denver to serving on boards and City Commissions, I find immense fulfillment in giving back. These commitments, along with cherished moments spent with family, keep me grounded and deeply connected to what matters most. Spending time with my two granddaughters has been transformative in ways I never anticipated. They remind me not to take myself too seriously and to embrace adaptability—both of which feel incredibly liberating. Inspired by these interactions, I’ve brought that same sense of freedom into my professional life. It’s led to more smiles at work and a greater openness to new ideas. Joy, I’ve learned, can be fleeting if not intentionally nurtured. That’s why I make it a priority to keep my “joy cup” full through meaningful activities and relationships. I also dedicate time to reading and staying informed on leadership trends and strategies. This commitment to continuous learning keeps me adaptable, forward-thinking, and authentic in my leadership. These experiences outside the office don’t just enrich my life—they sharpen my ability to lead
with clarity, empathy, and authenticity. As I evolve, I’m reminded that vulnerability and joy are not just personal virtues but also professional strengths that enhance the way I show up for others. Cole: As an African American leader, what do you consider to be one of the most difficult obstacles you’ve faced? Gardner: One of the most profound challenges I’ve faced is navigating spaces where my authenticity as a Black leader was neither fully accepted nor understood. Early in my career, I felt an unrelenting pressure to conform—to code-switch, suppress emotion, and project an unshakable calm. The fear of being seen as “too emotional” or having my anger misconstrued became a suffocating burden. This fear of simply being fully human was a painful realization that moved
Photo: McBoat Photography
30 The Acumen
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