Helping more people thrive doing what they love or are passionate about means helping more folks learn from those who came before them and so we asked successful entrepreneurs, artists and creatives to tell us what they would do differently, knowing what they know now, if they were starting over.

Andrey Boltyansky

I think that we always view fear as this strong reaction to terrifying situations without ever considering the little, quieter fears that can hold us back in so many ways. If I was starting over, I would have begun this process years ago. I don’t regret the years I spent working other jobs instead of pursuing my photography full-time, but I definitely wish I’d committed to it sooner. I could have gotten to where I’m at today much quicker, not with more money or equipment or clients, but with more courage. Read more>>

Mateo Marquez

If I could start over in my career I would focus more on learning how to write a good story. Most directors get lost with the frame, the technology, the “cool” factor of directing. They are obsessed with staying relevant and trendy in how they can cement themselves into the history of cinema at young age and be the next big thing. My case was no different and I spent a lot of time and money not truly understanding the narrative structure behind the stories I wanted to tell. Read more>>

Chloe Cruz

I don’t think I would change much about my journey. I believe that everything happens for a reason and that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. However, if I had to choose one thing, I would have done more planning before starting my business. When I first started out, I was very curious about entrepreneurship and just dove right in without much preparation. Read more>>

Shawna Weschrek

My family history is deeply rooted in our love of this country and can be traced back to before my ancestors first came to this country in 1798. My ancestors had the honor of defending our country starting in the War of 1812 and every generation since has had at least one family take up the mantel of serving our country and I had the honor and privilege of being the first member to ever join the United States Coast Guard when I joined in 1997. Read more>>

Dr. Heather Alaniz-Salas

One of the most crucial lessons that I have gleaned from my past employment experiences is that successful project completion necessitates unwavering concentration and adeptness in collaborating with diverse personalities. Read more>>

Brittany Young

This is my favorite question because it can be asked 100 times and 100 different ways and I will always say that the most important lessons my job has taught me are; Punctuality and the importance of great customer service. I’ve been working in Corporate America for 15 years now and customer service since I was 16 years old! Read more>>

Kinsey O”Leary

Everything happens in divine timing. I had many jobs and “careers” before I became a sound healer and business owner. My education in biochemistry showed me how to teach myself anything I want to know. My previous job as a biomarker analyst taught me how to use excel spreadsheets and the importance of organization. My gig as a front desk admin taught me the professional communication skills that I use every day. Read more>>

Denzel Demby

That’s an interesting question. First and foremost, I would have started sooner than later. As creatives and entrepreneurs, we want the right moment. We want things to fall into place perfectly without obstacles or delays. I’ve learned that no matter how long you wait, there will still be challenges and you must overcome them. Read more>>

Christal Brown

Prior to becoming #TheVisionCoach I was a tenured professor and a professional dancer for over 20 years. As a creator and an educator I spent a great deal of time in study and rehearsal. Since the age of 9 I have been showing up to a dance studio to train and be refined by the knowledge of others. The humility it takes to show up to correction is something that has served me in establishing my practice as a coach. It take vulnerability and trust to accept correction from someone, especially when the feedback is about your body. Read more>>

Kara Flowers

It’s the little things. This is what I learned as I began my career in the corporate health and wellness sector. My boss was a firecracker. She went through everything with a fine tooth comb, literally wore a white glove. I must remind you, I was just starting my career. A late bloomer in my profession because out of college I only worked a short while before I became a stay at home mother. Read more>>