As almost any entrepreneur or creative will tell you, unexpected problems are to be expected. Below, you’ll hear some incredible stories that highlight and illustrate the kinds of issues and problems entrepreneurs and creatives are dealing with everyday. It’s not easy, but the silver lining is that dealing with unexpected problems is one of the best ways to develop antifragility.

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It has not always been a smooth road, and because we have taken on the oath to live and die by our artistic endeavors, we must sacrifice and prioritize. If we are actively and consistently working on communicating our message, talent alone will not be enough. Read more>>

Ashley Delaney

One of the most unexpected problems I’ve faced was realizing that even in finally claiming the word “artist,” I wasn’t free from old patterns of dimming myself to fit in. For years, I thought I couldn’t say it out loud—I wasn’t good enough, trained enough, or worthy enough. Read more>>

John Morris

One of the most unexpected problems in the HVAC industry is the high volume of contractors holding licenses but not following the standards that exists in the industry Homeowners do not know the difference and we find ourselves going back on a lot of other companies’ work not done correctly. Read more>>

Anzor Alem

One of the most unexpected challenges I faced in my creative journey was when I had to postpone the release of my debut album earlier this year. Everything was ready—my team, the music, the visuals, the energy. Read more>>

Justin Jurgens

Expected Problem in the Classic Car Business In our world of classic cars, one expected challenge is the unpredictability of the vehicles themselves. These cars are decades old, and many times we don’t fully know their history. There could be hidden accident damage, worn-out parts, or issues that don’t appear until we dig deeper. Read more>>

Chelsea Suschena

I have owned my business since 2018, and I have learned to always be on the lookout for the unexpected. I always joke that everything I have learned in business, I have learned the hard way (i.e., not realizing I needed an additional license type until I received a fine or completely missing a form for new employees until my payroll company asked). Read more>>

Curt Legacy

Not so much an issue, but I think a big unexpected delimma for me was making sure I had an identity as an artist. When I first started music I didn’t understand how much my actual life would shape me in to being the artist I am today. Read more>>