We asked rising stars from the community one of our favorite questions: other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?

Ace2x | Artist

The decision to take myself serious. I see many people go halfway on their dreams & with their lives. They “Want” to do/have more but aren’t willing to put in whatever it takes to get there. Even worse, they don’t think about what’s next after the goal has been reached. The day I decided that wasn’t going to be me is what set me on my creative journey, and I haven’t looked back since! Read more>>

Carmel Mercado | Artist+Illustrator & Eye Surgeon

I had to make some practical changes to my day-to-day to help myself stay on track. Rick Rubin says it best in ‘The Creative Act’: ‘Discipline and freedom seem like opposites. In reality, they are partners. Discipline is not a lack of freedom, it is a harmonious relationship with time. Read more>>

Katelyn Nguyen | Creative

I believe that embracing the mentality of being a beginner has been the single most important decision I have made for myself that has led to my success. Being open to learning new things and taking risks is essential for developing new skills and interests. It enables one to think outside the box, expand their knowledge, and grow as an individual. Read more>>