We’ve been fortunate to connect with so many brilliant artists, business owners and leaders over the years and so we reached out to some of these talented folks to discuss what it takes to be successful.
Angela “Dcor Chic” Young
Consistent marketing efforts to build awareness and interest about your business is one of the most important things required to ignite the desire for clients to hire you. It is important to understand that not everyone will need a home stylist or property stager right away. They may be preparing for tne next year. Therefore. every bit of marketing you do now is influencing not only present day sales, but also sales in the future. Read more>>
Wilda Casado
My response to this question might be humorous, yet it’s a belief I stand by wholeheartedly. Like the TikTok girlies, I believe being a little delusional (i.e., believing in yourself) and putting in the work is crucial for success. Before you write this off as just a trend, let’s explore why I think this “absurd theory” holds some truth. In true Leo energy, I’ve been telling my family I’m a star since I was 6. I may not be a star in the grand scheme of things, but I like to think I have it in me to become one. Believing in yourself and your potential, even against all odds, is fundamental to success. Read more>>
Leah Lily
Success in the field of interior design and entrepreneurship requires a combination of skills An eye for color, texture, and space is critical .You should be able to visualize a space and create designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.Interior design is constantly evolving with new trends, materials, and technologies.So to be successful in this field as an interior designer you have to stay updated with these changes and always be learning. I believe some of the greatest interior designers are naturally gifted very similar to an artist because interior design is a form of art. Read more>>
Desiree Raydeen
Consistency, consistency, consistency! I had been inconsistent for 2 years and my sales really reflected that. I was getting caught up in social media gimmicks of what was trendy and being a multi-passionate artist I would dive into all these different projects. It wasn’t until I allowed myself to create from a genuine place of emotion and channeling that into an art piece that really was the pivot I needed not only for myself but for my business. Read more>>
Arely Fonseca
Being successful is measured differently by every individual. It’s important to personally define how you perceive success. I have learned that it’s so important to surround yourself with positive influences. Their enthusiasm and positive outlook in life can be contagious and therefore motivate you to work towards your goals. I personally cannot emphasize more how having good support system can provide your with valuable advice and a supportive environment for growth. Read more>>
Grace John
To find success when starting your own business, I think the one thing that matters most is passion. Whether that is passion about what you do, passion about helping who you serve, passion about making something different, passion about supporting yourself, or even just passion about getting and staying out of the corporate world, I think that passion will carry you. Passion leads to motivation, commitment, and drive to get things done. I think commitment and the will-power to keep going, even when things get tough, are also big factors. Read more>>
Sam Skrimpz
Success to me is measured by being able to meet your own goals on your own terms. success is also not linear. Sometimes you have to take 2 steps back to move forward. I am currently in a space of considering my success as an artist. I recently had to take on a part time job because murals aren’t coming as consistently as they when I had a fully established client base in New Orleans. At first, I thought I was failing myself but not being able to fully support myself on my artwork alone. but then I realized I was putting too much pressure on myself to get work, and feeling desperate. Read more>>
Sabrina Metz
Consistency truly is key. By maintaining a unique and consistent appearance in a product, you become trustworthy to your clients. This is so important, because clients will always have the comfort of knowing what they are investing in and feeling confident in what they will receive in return. Read more>>
Brianna Kelley
Most people would try to answer this question in the most complex way possible. These four simple pointers have created a successful business that I have now been in for 11 years now. It has allowed me opportunity to work in the fashion industry as an artist for NYFW. Also, I recently had the opportunity to work with Sony Televison and bless actress Bria Samone’ Henderson of ABCs hit show “The Good Doctor.” As well as recently traveling to Los Angeles to work the Grammy’s. These four things have led me to a successful path in my career in the beauty industry: Read more>>
Ali Mohamed
Success doesn’t happen overnight and it won’t happen just because you know someone. You gotta be prepared everyday for any opportunity that comes your way. Stop messing around. Stay home for a whole summer to prepare for what you got coming next. Stop complaining and spending more money than what you have. Build upon yourself and expect to fail 100 times before something finally hits. If you’re reading this, you got too much time on your hands. Make a move while you’re still young. Read more>>
Taggart Lee
Passion, curiosity, and tenacity. Technically I’ve been a photographer since I was 13 so the passion has always been there in one form or another. If the business fell apart tomorrow, I wouldn’t see myself putting the camera down even for a second. I’m a curious guy, I am curious about our world and the people in it. For better or worse, humanity fascinates me and that is the main topic I am drawn toward. If I’m shooting a boat race, I’m less interested in pretty sails at sunset than I am the crew on the boat. When things go wrong on a boat, they go wrong FAST. Those moments to me pique my interest. Read more>>
Kyle McMillan
What do I think it takes to be successful? There’s plenty of cliches and overused tropes that I could put here that everyone has probably heard a million times from their favorite investor millionaire. Tropes like it takes Patience! It takes Hard Work! it takes you making Sacrifices! I mean, they aren’t wrong, but when I heard those same things, I could never help feeling like they were trying to glorify a mundane and agonizing existence in favor of materialistic belongings. Read more>>
Angelina Lontz
When I think about success, I like to remind myself of a quote from Elliot Fletcher, “It’s important to have your own definition of success rather than someone else’s so you can fulfill your dreams, not someone else’s expectations of your dreams.” My definition of success is creating something that I’m proud of, and that others love as much as I do. Whatever your definition of success is, as long as you are consistent you will reach your goals. No amount of talent or luck will take you farther than consistency. You can only get so far before your luck runs out, but staying consistent guarantees you will continue to get better and better. Read more>>
HYEJIN LEE
The creative profession is always full of troubles. The tattoo market is no exception. Many tattoo artists want to express their individuality while trying to develop their own vision and marketability. The two are not compatible, but securing both is not an easy task. Furthermore, tattooists must constantly expose their work to attract potential clients and keep abreast of their tastes. I believe that the secret to my success is sincerity. It feels like a very clichéd answer, but the more I work on it the more I feel it’s true. I uploaded my work to social media almost every day for a year. It was not easy to create and upload high-quality content every day, so there were many obstacles, but I did not stop. Then, my account, which had no reaction at first, spread through the algorithm and grew rapidly thanks to the introduction of short forms such as Reels and TikTok. Read more>>
Lianca Lyons
As an Executive Assistant to CEOs, Founders, and C-Suite Executives, I see the same personality traits in successful business owners that I work with and the formula for success is the same: Hard work: Show up every day to grind and get closer to achieving your goals. Discipline: EVEN WHEN YOU DON’T WANT TO, show up and grind every day to achieve your goals Consistency: Even when you don’t want to, show up and grind every day to achieve your goals AND DON’T GIVE UP. Read more>>
Arin Bonk
In order to be successful in business you have to be willing to work harder than anyone else. In my early days of owning a small business I worked crazy hours and said yes to every project that came my way. I went to networking events to meet people and grow my circle. I went to everything. I possibly could, which was hard at the time because I had two small children and a husband with a challenging work schedule. As my business has grown, I have been able to be more selective about the work I take on, which ultimately leads to more profitable work. Read more>>
Arlina Roman
I believe positively impacting people’s lives is the true measure of success. My business slogan, “Gain Confidence in Your Brand,” is aimed at entrepreneurs who feel lost and need guidance to establish themselves as experts in their industry. Through branding and social media, I assist them in standing apart from their competitors so that they can make a lasting impression. When I see my clients getting positive feedback or reaching their goals after working with me, that is my purpose and success in my book! Read more>>
Alana White
I get people all the time ask me…. “How are you successful in this field”. Being successful in the beauty industry amounts to more than just money. So many other things play a part in being successful owning your own business. First and foremost you have to be a genuine person within. I think it takes a great kind hearted person to listen to what the consumer wants and what they desire and require because without them, my business would not be standing today. I make sure that any question a client has prior to book, during booking, and after booking are answered to the best of my ability. I want them to feel comfortable with the style they are choosing and how I will go about conducting service. Read more>>
Gianna Thompson
In order to become successful, I believe that it takes hard work and determination. You must have patience because nothing happens overnight. Often times we as people want results right away. That is unrealistic. Set realistic goals for yourself and work towards completing them. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Read more>>
Tracy Morris
In the business world, you hear many refer to the concept of ‘successful’. What does that mean? To most people success equals money, power & fame. Not necessarily in that order:) For me, success takes on a different definition. It includes the following: 1) Freedom: the ability to step away & do the things you love…without stress or worry. 2) Create Meaningful Relationships: Taking the time to cultivate client, vendor, family & Read more>>
Gaby Viteri
1. You have to show up every day. You don’t have to be good, you certainly don’t have to be perfect, you don’t even have to want to be there, but you have to shop every day. 2. After you show up, have a morning practice. Lean in to the art of the ritual. Make tea, meditate, write affirmations, take a few deep breaths before you start your day. Get grounded bc the day can be unsettling. A morning routine will get you ready for anything. Read more>>
Michelle Miskell
Being a coordinator for over 11 years, I’ve learned some of the “Do’s and Don’ts” when it comes to being successful. Being up-to-date with current trends is a big “DO”. It’s important to know what your clients are wanting and being ahead of the game. My clients love when I give them an idea for their wedding that they’ve never seen before. Another big “Do” is being kind to fellow vendors. Venues, caterers, florists, and DJ’s all play a part in a wedding. It’s important to know how each vendor works and what their typical client looks like. If I have a client that has a lower budget, I won’t refer them to a florist that has a $3k minimum. Read more>>
Camila Montoya
What a good question! Although we live in a world full of competition where social media makes us compare our process with others, I do believe that we should define success by looking at ourselves in the past, and seeing how much we have grown, learned, experienced, and enjoy! This is a recommendation for all, including me, to see success as something you don’t have to spend all your life looking for, more to feel successful with the little things you do in your everyday routine. Never forget that success is not something that looks so far, so impossible to achieve. Read more>>
Dilshad Yogi-Smith
In my opinion, there are two important pieces to being successful. The first piece is to define what success looks like for you as an individual. I think that this is where most entrepreneurs and people in the workforce fail almost immediately, because it is so easy to look to others in our industry and try to model our own journey after theirs. Our culture is one that breeds comparison and is constantly encouraging us to ‘measure up’, which in turn can completely blind us from what we are truly created to do. Read more>>
Ivan Washington
Being successful to me was being able to take the losses and recover from them to become something greater. Losing my older brother really pushed me to be the man I am today. He used to tell me if you sit around all day doing absolutely nothing and letting time pass you by then you’ll just wither away and die off. It was a big wake-up call for me because a long time ago all I was doing was spending hours at home and doing nothing but playing games and sitting around. Making no progress with my life, I knew it was time for a change. I started making beats and doing photography, I got good at the beats and then started taking my photography journey a lot more seriously. I ended up ranking top 3 as a photographer in the 2022 Best of the Bay, Creative Loafing Tampa contest. Read more>>
Chris Young
To be successful I think it takes a mixture of values. The first and most important value I would say is integrity. I think integrity is the key to living the most fruitful life. There will be times where you will get mistreated, doubted, thrown curveballs by the forces that be and even be challenged by your own vices, but always striving to stay the course and re-direct yourself when needed I think will yield the best results. Always strive to do your best for yourself and for others. Read more>>
Amal Samuel
Consistency, patience, self-discipline and grit are the key factors to make one successful! Success is not often an overnight achievement, but rather a steady consistent stream of taking steps towards the goal at hand. Read more>>
Jaime Hansell
Success is a term that I always feel like was never a “one size fits all”. Success looks soo different to everyone, but if I had to break it down from my point of view I could summarize it down to 9 key points. 1. You set clear goals. By having clear direction and purpose, you can focus your efforts and make more intentional choices. Read more>>
Alexandra Cancro
Success to me is a combination of various elements. The most prominent is persistence, a determination to overcome obstacles, work through moments of doubt, and continue striving for your goals. Equally as important is cultivating a client base which often results in referrals. With this comes a type of support from others that can empower you and help your business flourish. My entire life I have heard people say do what you love, and I do believe that above all, this is the cornerstone to being successful, a genuine love and excitement for what you do. Read more>>
Shel Levy
I strongly believe that it takes consistency to be successful! The more you practice your craft the better you get at it and you’ll be able to showcase that via social media or other outlets. One of my favorite personal stories to share, is when I had to stop doing shoots during covid-19; at the time I didn’t know how I would survive and I also started to lose contacts at certain outlets due to them losing their jobs. So to combat the adversity faced I started to get creative and took photographs of myself as well as videos and learned different editing styles. The more I posted the more I got recognition, which lead to multiple clients asking me to edit photos and videos. Thus creating a work from home job for myself. Keeping a strong mind and staying consistent are the keys to success! Read more>>
Pamela Borgel
I began Painted Horse Winery and Vineyards in order to overcome adversity in my own life. I didn’t have a plan, I just had a really bad day and decided it was not going to ruin me. I first had to overcome my anger and did that by destroying a beautiful horse pasture with my plow. It was cathartic. But, then I knew I needed to make it beautiful again and that is when I decided to plant vineyards in the newly destroy pasture. I planted the first 300 vines myself. That, too, was cathartic. From there things began to grow and God’s hand was visible. Today, I am happier and stronger than I have ever been and I thank God for the adversity that has led me to success. Read more>>
Holly Ross
There are many factors to being successful. For the purposes of this article, I’ll be sharing 4 key principles that I have found to be great qualities in being a business owner. First off, innovation is a key quality that I feel every entrepreneur should have to be successful. Whether inventing something new or reimaging access to a known service or product, owners must be able to innovate. I don’t mean simply to change something’s color or shape and call it new, but to think of truly unique and out-of-the-box ideas that could reshape a community or population. Read more>>
Carmem Gusmao
I think you need to be aware of everything that is going on around you , pay attention what people says and think everybody matter and sometimes the solution that you are looking for is in a place that you never imagine that will be . . Be creative , there is so many ways to unlock your creativity and also if you are not a artist or appreciate art I guarantee that any kind of art classes will help you to see the world with another point of view. Looking around for opportunities , many people focus so much on the work that they don’t have time to grow . Find your purpose in life . I am sure that we didn’t came here to only pay bills and live a stressful life . When you find your purpose ,that can be anything , every step on the way will feels less harder .work with joy is the key for a successful path. Read more>>
Nita Setina
Success looks different for each person. Some people base their success on social status, finances or title. For me being successful means I wake up everyday & live in my truth & purpose. In a nutshell I believe it takes consistency, motivation & believing in yourself! Read more>>
Eliza Shabo
Success can be defined differently for each individual, as it is subjective and can encompass various aspects of life, such as personal fulfillment, career achievements, financial stability, or making a positive impact on others. Here are some factors that are often associated with achieving success: Clear Vision and Goals: Successful individuals often have a clear vision of what they want to achieve and set specific, achievable goals to work towards. Passion and Perseverance: A strong passion for one’s work or purpose and the ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks are key traits of successful people. Read more>>
Jessica Ishmael
I believe it takes a strong “why”, determination and drive to reach your goals, and the true belief that you and your business get to thrive and be successful. Owning and running a small business of any kind is difficult, and will have so many obstacles that without those things it would be easy to give up and throw in the towel when things get tough. Read more>>
Tamara Gruner
I started my business 10 years ago with an investment of $3000 – a camera and a lens. Of course, I did not have a portfolio so I chose to provide free services – to friends and family. I primarily focused on engagements and family sessions – because no one, rightfully, would risk their wedding to someone who has a minimal portfolio. Using those opportunities I built up my portfolio enough to advertise in The Knot – a bridal wedding magazine. After 8 months I got my first wedding and I was beyond ecstatic. I offered my services for less than $1000 and took up 30+ weddings that year. My entire summer was spent photographing weddings which enabled me to build a portfolio over time. Read more>>
J’nell Ciesielski
Success is a rather interesting concept, depending on who you ask. Some might say it means fame, having your name in lights and flying around on private jets. Others might say it means money, or never failing, or reaching that goal you’ve set for yourself. I think it can be all those things, but to say that’s all success is would be rather limiting. Would I like my name to jump to the top of the bestseller list? Absolutely! Would I enjoy royalties flooding in? Sure. But success to me is something personal, a deep satisfaction in creating the kind of stories I want. Read more>>
Aiyana Grant
In order to be successful, it takes consistency. In my personal opinion, I feel as though once a business owner gets comfortable within their business and the money they’re making, it’s easy to lose the original motivation you started with. I have experienced struggling with consistency at times and I still am til this day. With this being said, my advice to others would be to master time management before anything else. Social media is one of the main resources to promote your business and with their being so many businesses out there, it’s very easy for people to forget about you. Lastly, it’s important to stay consistent and stand out from your competition. Read more>>
Julie Konkle
Before I took the unexpected leap of starting my own business, I worked as a nurse at a big university medical center – for a lot (30+) of years. I did everything from administering chemo to children to working as a manager in clinical research. My nursing career had it’s ups and downs as any job does. I found parts I loved and parts that I didn’t – but the experience left me with good people skills, and a strong curiosity about alternative medicine, (which is defined as ‘any of a range of medical therapies that are not regarded as orthodox by the medical profession, such as herbalism, homeopathy, and acupuncture.)’ That curiosity lead me to research and develop my own natural skincare line, and my people skills (and a little ADD) gave me the confidence to make a business out of it. Read more>>
MARICA VEREEN
In my opinion what matters most; in achieving success is your drive, your willingness to never give up. Becoming and being a small business owner is not easy, they’ll be days, sometimes weeks, and even months of no sales/income, you’ll lose inventory, due to unforeseen circumstances, you’ll experience unhappy customers and sometimes these events can happen ALL IN THE SAME DAY. So I say that your drive and willingness to never give up, matters the most in achieving success, because giving up is not an option, failure is never an option; when striving to be successful in the small business world. You have to know that This Too Shall Pass and that just because you Lost, doesn’t make it the end. Read more>>
Shakira Miller
To be successful, you have to put the work in and stay humble nothing in the lifetime is going to come to you. You can have anything you want, it is possible you just have to work towards what you want in life. And always stay passionate and humbled. Even during the rough times. Read more>>
Sebastian Cosme
Consistency is definitely key to being successful. Staying on a schedule. Not only that, but learning from mistakes and challenging yourself to go above and beyond the “norm”. Read more>>
Karen Quinones
There are so many factors involved in building a successful business. I think what drives me is the passion I have for the craft. I really fell in love with the art of sourdough. I have heard bakers describe sourdough as mindful. I think that is a really good description. You have to be aware of the environment and how it is affecting the fermentation. It’s visual and tactile in how the sourdough transforms in look and touch. Any craft takes time and attention but this craft is not static its alive and dynamic. Sourdough evolves and transforms. Sourdough bakers really enjoy the process. This passion is what drives and pushes me to dig deeper. Read more>>