We asked some brilliant entrepreneurs, artists and creatives to reflect on lessons they’ve learned at prior jobs. We’ve shared highlights below.

Ashley Smith

Prior to starting my book coaching business I worked a wide range of jobs. I even started a few businesses. In the past, I learned how to sell various products on commission such as shoes, body smell goods and kitchen knives, and door-to-door jobs. These experiences taught me how to step outside of myself to develop a script to sale as well as how to market myself. I understand the importance of presentation. These essential components of business carried over into a lot of my personal projects. These skills prepared me for everything required to manage my business today. I’m in the process of starting another book coaching business. This experience is different from the first, because I’ve learned from past mistakes. Read more>>

Kevin Equitz

A creative team I worked with for several years collectively came up with the phrase “simplify by simplifying” when things would start spiraling into compounding frustration, and it’s something I like to remind myself with every project. There’s usually a time to add an embellishment or extra something that isn’t entirely necessary, but it’s ultimately important to do so with the awareness of the overall functional/visual balance and the purpose it represents. . Read more>>

Jhannet Johnson

I believe before owning a business you should have personal experience in waiting tables, retail and customer service. It will definitely mode you have boundaries and how to treat others. Read more>>

I prefer to do this prompt from the “creatives” section please: What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on? Tell us the backstory so we understand circumstances/context and why it’s meaningful to you.

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was writing my children’s book on ichthyosis, a rare skin condition. I first became interested in raising awareness and advocating for those with this condition after volunteering at a camp for kids with skin conditions called Camp Discovery. Read more>>