Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Nicole Baeza | Professional Photographer & Videographer, Brand Developer

As cliche as it may be, my advice to others would be to believe you ARE what you aspire to be. Having self-trust and self-confidence in your passion is huge. In my experience, this can be the hardest part. Sure, it’s a little intimidating to raise your pricing, delegate tasks by hiring a team and take on entire projects by yourself, and you may even feel underqualified or incapable of doing so, but once you do it, you know you can. Read more>>

Katherine Schultz | Director of Photography

There is a beautiful quote that I think of often in my work and that is from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry; “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly.” It encapsulates one of the integral pieces to a successful photography business. I feel to capture authentic work, you are required to have your heart there in the room. Read more>>

KG Green | Graphic Designer

I’ve always done my best to make quality connections with people. Not wanting from any thing from them but truly seeing how I can help them or how I can bring value to what they have more times than not made me stand out from other designers. I’ve been fortunate enough to be given opportunities and make some amazing connections based on that. From there it’s just a matter of stepping up and executing and being consistent if other opportunities come. Read more>

Linda Sidhu | Personality Expert + Quiz Creator

I wanted to answer this question but it’s not showing up: How to know whether to keep going or to give up? (I had to switch browsers because I couldn’t submit my questionnaire and then the question above was gone.) Question: How to know whether to keep going or to give up? Read more>>

Yigit Isik | Illustrator & Concept Artist

I would say perseverance and reliability, as I think they are two of the main players of success in any situation. Speaking about my own field, if you’re pursuing an art career in entertainment, this is not the easiest industry to break in. It’s very competitive because of the sheer number of art school graduates and self taught artists who are competing for the similar positions in the same productions and studios. Read more>>

Miriam Lando | Managing Partner – PR and Marketing

We sincerely believe that the joy of clean, healthy, elevated food made from scratch and impeccable service is not reserved only to the “fortunate” ones. Everyone deserves this right. Read more>>

William Prescott | Actor

I think for me it’s about being happy with my job every day, not dreading Monday’s. I fell into a corporate advertising career at 23 and I slowly died inside Why wasn’t I saying “TGI Monday!”? At 33 decided to quit and focus solely on acting. All or nothing. Since then I’ve never been happier. Read more>>

Toshihiro Iwasaki | CEO, Phiaro Inc. and Concept Car Producer

Always pushing the envelope, for timeless quality, with the right team playing to their strengths. Read more>>

Robert Rangel | Artist, DJ, Producer

The biggest factor behind my success is taking care of my over all wellbeing first. Mentally, physically, spiritually, & emotionally. Read more>>

BEKA | Singer/Songwriter

As a singer/songwriter I believe that quality is the most important factor behind success. Hard work and networking is obviously really important, but to me the passion is in the music! I love feeling proud as a song that I’ve worked hard on at the end of the day because it’s really catchy and fun to listen to. Read more>>

Erynn Mitchell | Director & Actress

Hello! My name is Erynn Mitchell. I think that the biggest factor behind my own personal success has been my ability to forge community through artistry. My personal journey as a director began in theatre and moved into film. They say that if you are the smartest person in the room, that you are in the wrong room. Read more>>