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

Kelly Schuit

I started working when I was 13. I coached gymnastics at the gym I grew up going to and on the weekends, I led kid birthday parties there. From a young age, I learned the value of hard work. I saw that simply showing up with a good attitude got me further than being the most talented. From there, I worked my way through high school and college, always willing to learn something or try something new. I worked at Allstate Insurance offices, helping agents set up their electronic file system and various marketing projects. Read more>>

Chris Gassler

When it comes to creative endeavors. We will never be at a point in time where you can do enough. You would do well to always have something on the agenda, another project ahead of the one you’re currently taking on. The demand is not necessarily there in the same way it once was, and it will most assuredly never return to the world it once was. More tech has given many people the means to pursue the same dreams as you. Computer intelligence can work circles around you. The biggest benefit you can give to yourself is be analyzing your moves you make now, what moves you need to make towards the future, and what can you be working towards next. Read more>>

Krista O’Dea

Prior to turning my attention to being a Doula, Midwifery Student, and Prenatal/Postpartum Exercise Coach, I worked full-time as a 911 Paramedic in NYC and Central NJ for 20 years. This experience has enabled me to become very comfortable in noticing what is normal and what is not normal, how to respond calmly and knowledgeably during an emergency, how best to handle situations occurring out-of-the-hospital, and how to deeply trust my intuition and instincts. Read more>>

Krista Landen

I started working at 13 or 14, babysitting and working at a local grocery store. While working as a bagger and cashier, I began to learn how a positive attitude can have a significant impact on others. My manager at the time was always smiling when she was on the floor and engaging with shoppers. While there, I also saw the power of upsells and offering products that others would enjoy. Many times when you are standing in line to check out, you’re looking at magazines or candy. A few times, I could jokingly talk patrons into purchasing what they had just been staring at. Note that we, as employees, were never pushed to upsell items in our lanes or held to goals for that. But I like to see people smile, and when they would leave with the magazine, soda, or candy, they would always be happy. Read more>>

Maria Capone

The most important lesson I’ve learned in my professional journey is that transformation—whether personal or professional—can’t be forced. It must be chosen. My role as a leader isn’t to create change for others, but to create an environment where people feel safe, inspired, and empowered to choose growth for themselves. Read more>>