Every museum, as well as major galleries and auction houses, employs a curator to act as custodian of its collections. In addition to cataloging and maintaining existing items, the best curators actively seek out and acquire pieces to augment and improve the overall quality—not to mention monetary value—of the collection.

While value and worth can be subjective, a desirable piece is typically curated for the following reasons:

1. Inherent value. The piece itself, due to its materials (e.g. gold, precious stones, etc.), has monetary value.

2. Significance. The piece is of importance culturally, historically, or geographically.

3. Variety or focus. The piece expands or narrows the scope of the existing collection.

4. Representative. The piece marks a certain era, movement, or trend.

If a desired piece meets these criteria and is within the curator’s budget, a purchase is eminent.

Our lives, much like a beautiful museum collection, can be curated. Not by mere acquisition of material items, but by intentional, purposeful selection. In other words, we can build or construct an extraordinary life.

Like the curator, we do it by pursuing things that are valuable and important to us, while simultaneously editing, removing, or replacing what no longer serves us.

For example, we can cultivate wonderful relationships and combine them with memorable experiences—like a walk in the park at sunset. Then add in meaningful work, service, and contribution. And top it off with personal growth and physical vitality. The end result is an amazing, fulfilled life.

And unlike a museum collection, none of these things have to cost a dime.

A great life doesn’t just happen. But it can be curated.