Never give up. It’s advice that is thrown around daily – but is it always right? We asked some folks we admire about their thoughts around how to know when to give up and when to keep trying

Grant Benziger

I think I can speak for most of dedicated musicians/producers in saying there really is no giving up. There are times where you may need to step away or take a break for extended periods, which can benefit you, but there really isn’t much of a way to extinguish the creativity that forms inside of you overtime. I have experienced many life altering moments in my life that have made me question if im on the right path, but it has always lead me back to my passion because no matter how much I curse it or obsess over it, its as immovable as Mt. Everest. Read More>>

Samantha Herrera

In poetry, there are times when you’re hit with unbearable writer’s block and you feel like you’re not creating as fast or as frequently as you want to and it can feel stressful. The beautiful thing about poetry is there is constant inspiration, whether it is through, writing circles, workshops, or open mics. The community that holds poetry gives you reminders to continue in the craft. In any moment I felt like I wanted to give up, there was always someone there to inspire me to keep writing and performing. Read More>>

Maricela Jimenez

I’ve definitely been through some tough, dark times in my life, times where giving up seemed like an easy option. But I’ve learned that those challenges often bring out the best in me. Every time I’ve hit a low point, I’ve managed to bounce back stronger, with a clearer perspective and a more determined mindset.

I’ve found that the difficult moments are often the ones that build character. They force me to reassess my goals, my approach, and my strength. I believe the key to success is in how we respond to adversity—it’s not about avoiding failure, but about using those setbacks as stepping stones. Read More>>

Rajdeep Das

In the most deserted days, when your account balance is so low that you feel like running away or worry about re-stocking food for the next week and yet leaving behind what you strived to do, so passionately, is not an option then you should keep going. In my case, I am a photographer and I do freelance work, so it’s really a blessing on some days and a curse on the other because sustaining anywhere is a tough thing to do and even in your darkest days, if doing that one thing is the giving you joy, peace, ability to think and the energy to fight with all the challenges that are lined ahead of you, then giving up was never an option. Read More>>

Isla Martinez

I love this question. There are going to be many moments whenever you are starting a new venture, business, or putting your creative work out in the world, where you’ll want to give up and question every single thing you’ve done so far.

To start, I think it’s important to note that every person and business has their own set of challenges, nothing is perfect and it’s not supposed to be! The gift of life is learning, growing, evolving and the beauty is in the journey. Read More>>