Gifty Enright is a corporate executive turned author, TEDx speaker, and advocate for women’s empowerment. After experiencing burnout at the height of her career, she discovered the importance of balance, well-being, and redefining success on one’s own terms. Her journey from struggle to strength now inspires women worldwide to pursue fulfilling careers without compromising their health or happiness—making her story one worth sharing with our global Humans of Fuzia community of 5M+ changemakers.
Q: What inspired you to begin your journey as an author and speaker?
Gifty: About 15 years ago, I was at the peak of my corporate career—traveling constantly, managing a family, and running side hustles. From the outside, I had everything people call “success,” but inside I was burned out and deeply unhappy. I even kept a spreadsheet tracking 14 health symptoms just to monitor how unwell I was becoming. That personal crisis pushed me to find a healthier way of living. When I came out on the other side, I wrote a book to help other mothers avoid burnout while balancing family and demanding careers. That book led me to a TEDx talk, and ultimately to the work I do now—empowering women to thrive without losing themselves.
Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way?
Gifty: As a working mother, time was always scarce. I would show up to work exhausted after sleepless nights with a baby, then still be expected to compete at the same level as colleagues who didn’t face those challenges. On top of that, I was juggling my children, my partner’s needs, and even caring for my elderly mother. It was constant guilt—feeling like I wasn’t giving enough either at home or at work. I often felt fatigued and like I was dropping balls everywhere. That was one of the toughest struggles—never feeling “enough” in any role.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Gifty: Women in leadership walk a very tight rope. The qualities that come naturally to us—empathy, nurturing, connection—are often viewed as weaknesses in corporate spaces. If we lean into them, we’re seen as “too soft.” If we adopt aggressive, masculine traits, then both men and women often resist us. This is the “likability bias.” Add to that performance bias, where men are assumed competent but women must constantly prove themselves—it becomes exhausting. The workplace was designed for men who had wives at home, not for women
balancing both home and career. That’s why so many women opt out of promotions or leadership roles—they need flexibility, not endless battles for recognition.
Q: What advice would you give to future women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Gifty: To women leaders, I want to say—I see you. I know the hard work and sacrifices it took to get here. But don’t make the next generation go through the same struggles. Fight for better structures: flexibility, fair maternity policies, and challenging workplace biases. Mentor and advocate for younger women. Don’t think, “It was hard for me, so it should be hard for them.” Instead, open doors and make the journey easier for those coming after you.
Q: How do you personally define success?
Gifty: Success is doing work you love that pays you well and allows you to live the life you want. And that life should include meaningful relationships, peace of mind, and good health—both mental and physical. For me, that balance is the true measure of success.
“Success isn’t just about achievement—it’s about creating a life where you thrive in health, relationships, and joy.” – Gifty Enright
Connect with Gifty Enright
Website: giftyenright.com
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