We asked some very talented folks to talk to us about success and what it takes to be successful. We’ve shared their responses below.

Kianna Krauss

I feel like in modern society you hear a lot about how you need to have a good business plan or outreach to be successful. I agree that can be valid for blue or white collar workforces, but not for us creatives. To be successful as a creative, it’s important to leave a lasting impression on your clients and customer base. This can be done either through what your work portrays and ignites in the person, or just how you present yourself to them. A large portion of my peers and clientele don’t recognize me solely by the art I create but rather the interpersonal connection we’ve created. There’s absolutely nothing I love more than creating connections and little memories with the people I interact with when sharing my art.  Read more>>

Chef Tj

I think success requires a few key things, but it ultimately depends on how you measure it. I believe everyone’s idea of success is different, but for me, it comes from failure and how you overcome those obstacles. Being able to stay in business over the years is my greatest measure of success—especially since most food businesses fail within the first two years. Just continuing to do this and growing over the last seven years is definitely one of my biggest accomplishments. Read more>>

David Poyer

Appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken. The biggest risk I’ve ever taken was in striking out as a writer. In the late 1970s I was a surface line naval officer, leading a team that trained new-construction crews at Fleet Training Center, Norfolk. I had great folks under me and was doing what I considered important work. Unfortunately my CO at the time was a man I’d previously clashed with in a previous assignment, when I’d simply been carrying out to orders of my then-commanding officer.  Read more>>

Sarah Bolton

Success is such an interesting word! We grow up with this idea that to be successful means you make a lot of money, you have lots of things. And certainly running a successful business oftentimes does mean that you are making money in the business is sustainable, but for me, success means so much more than just material things. Read more>>

Brakia Moore

I believe success is rooted in tenacity and consistency—committing to show up every day, putting in the effort, and persevering even when challenges arise or inspiration wanes. Years ago, I used to tell people my motivation for a better quality of life was the reason I was able to be consistent with success. However, when life hit i realized how much motivation may fluctuate, and even skill is insufficient without dedicated effort. I realized what truly matter is the ability to continue moving forward when no one is observing — the hard work behind the scenes, steadily enhancing your skills gradually over time. It’s the quiet determination, the consistent action, and the refusal to quit that truly leads to success. Read more>>

Kendall McClelland

Ultimately at the end of the day it takes dedication. On the days when you don’t want to show up you have to continue to do so. It’s not easy to never give up, the ups and downs are so emotionally draining and there is many moments where you don’t feel good enough and your mental state really takes a roller coaster ride. But that’s part of the journey. It’s not easy and everyone’s journey is different and that’s what’s exciting and challenging all in one. Read more>>

Mani Pannu

From what I’ve seen across many industries — especially creative ones like photography — success tends to hinge on five core principles: 1. Relentless Consistency
Even when inspiration is low, consistently showing up, marketing, editing, delivering — builds momentum. It earns trust. People remember who’s always there, not who occasionally shows brilliance. Read more>>

Morgan E

I believe success starts from within. As cliché as it may sound, having internal drive and the willingness to keep pushing forward is essential. Without that, it’s easy to stay stuck in your comfort zone. I also think the people you choose to surround yourself with play a big role in your growth. Just as important are the words you speak to yourself and the thoughts you carry. Our mindset is one of our most powerful tools—when we lead with positive thoughts and self-talk, we create space for growth and opportunity. Read more>>

Junseong Park

I believe success in the film industry comes down to effort, communication skills, and a bit of luck. What’s helped me the most is building genuine relationships on set rather than relying solely on social media or online networking. Being in the right place at the right time—and making the most of that moment—has been key. For example, when I worked on my professor’s feature documentary, I had the chance to connect with the post-production crew. That one opportunity led to long-term collaborations—we’re still working together on other creative projects today. Read more>>

Belinda Jacobs

Of course it takes a lot of things to be successful, but for me – one of my main challenges is remembering to enjoy the ride. Having a product brand is a journey with SO many moving parts (like many businesses) – there will always be ups and downs, just like in life. It’s important (but hard for type A’s to stop and smell the roses, celebrate achievements, and just enjoy simple things each day. Read more>>

Karen Hough

I think a willingness to learn, a willingness to pivot, and a sense of humour are the keys to what I consider success. I chose to study science—but a fun science—at university, and came away with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics. My studies kickstarted my career in fitness, personal training, coaching, fitness centre management, etc…. I was moving up the chain, making great money, helping people, and was delighted that I could wear running shoes to work! I was never going to sell out for a “regular” office job.  Read more>>

Rhonda Holt

Success is based on perspective. Everyone sees it differently. Society tends to brainwash us into thinking that you need certain things in place to define a successful business or relationship. Everyone should examine what success looks like for them. What are your personal wants and needs in life. Do you have a plan? Also it is important to understand that things can change. If you start a path and do not like the way it is going, just change it. Life is fluid. Enjoy the Journey. To me success is enjoying the journey, not the destination. Read more>>

Alli Weatherly

I believe success comes down to consistency, resilience, and a willingness to take imperfect action. It’s easy to get caught up in waiting for the “perfect” moment or perfect version of yourself to start something, but success usually happens when you show up even when it’s messy, uncomfortable, or uncertain. Read more>>

Sharon Wu

After nearly 11 years of working for myself, I’ve found that successful entrepreneurs must be nimble, resilient, and ready to pivot when needed. What works today might not work six months from now. As a content writer, I’ve experienced this firsthand. The bar has risen dramatically since I started in 2014 — basic articles that once satisfied clients no longer cut it as technology advances and competition intensifies. I’ve had to continuously evolve my skills and approach to stay relevant, moving toward specialized YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) content and incorporating industry expert perspectives that add value beyond what automation can provide. Read more>>

Samone Dowdy

If I’ve learned anything on this journey, it’s that success doesn’t happen by accident. For me, it comes down to three things: trust, support, and love. Trust is about having the strength to believe in your vision—especially when others don’t fully see it yet. It’s having the courage to move forward with an idea even when feedback or fear tries to pull you back. For me, starting Gleam Design Co. required a deep trust in myself and in the belief that the vision I had wasn’t just for me—it would speak to others too. I had to trust that the experiences I wanted to create through flowers would matter. Read more>>

Gigi Cruz

To be successful you must understand that you need know what you want and why you want it. Show up and work at it regularly, even when it’s hard. Bounce back from failures and keep learning from them. Avoid distractions and concentrate on what matters most. Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and what drives you. Read more>>