Deciding to work for yourself is often cited as the best decision folks in our community have made. Hearing the same response over and over led us to ask them about the next best decision folks have made and we’ve shared their responses with you below.

Terrill Carter | Singer/ Performer

The single most important decision I made that contributed to my success, was simply going for my dreams. Becoming focused and determined … Waking up everyday and showing up for not only myself but for the dream I wanted to achieve in creating my debut solo album! I think most of the time we see what we want to achieve in life but don’t put in the work it takes to accomplish the goals. When I realized I was willing to endure whatever it took to complete my debut solo album “Feels Like This” … After everything it made me realize nothing is earned without hard work, focus, and dedication! Read more>>

Niliams Artistry | Professional Makeup Artist and Hairstylist

One of the most pivotal decisions beyond choosing to be self-employed was the dedication to continuous learning and improvement within the beauty industry. Staying updated with the latest techniques, trends, and technologies has significantly contributed to the success of my professional hair and makeup business. This commitment has allowed me to offer clients innovative and high-quality services, keeping them satisfied and coming back, ultimately fueling the growth and reputation of my business. Another critical decision that greatly impacted the success of my professional hair and makeup business was fostering strong relationships and networking within the industry. Building connections with fellow professionals, vendors, and clients has been invaluable. Read more>>

Michael Street | Cinematographer & Director

I believe the single most important decision I made was to educate myself. Along my journey I put myself through a Bachelor Degree program at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, and a Master Degree program at the prestigious American Film Institute in Los Angeles. For me the path to becoming a cinematographer was unique. I was invited to a music video set and I immediately fell in love with the entire process. I enjoyed the team work that goes behind making images come to life. On that day I knew I wanted to be the person behind the camera. I spent the next year working as a production assistant and a grip on a variety of productions. I eventually worked my way to Best Boy Electric on some low budget features. Read more>>

Michelle Meadow Love | Medicine Woman

Trusting my intuition. I do not need to know the answers or how it will happen. I follow the energy and what feels best for me in each moment. My decisions re base on a knowing. My purpose is to be of service and that doesn’t have a one size fits all look. When I share what I love with an open heart, I am given opportunities to serve. Everything I need, shows up for me in divine timing. I have let g of worrying about the future and instead staying present and in alignment with my authenticity and integrity. Read more>>

Jack Gregory | Art Director

I saw greater results when I decided my health and well being was more important than the work. Early on in my freelance career I had accrued a number of great clients and high profile gigs, but I was always behind the eight ball when it came to successfully running the business aspects of being an entrepreneur. My hubris at the time was such that I believed my creative skills would easily translate to the administration portion of running a business. Any time I found myself deeper in a hole, whether that be financially, schedule wise or relating to work / life balance, I concluded that I would be able to figure everything out myself. After a case of supreme burn out (hospital visits) due to my inability to properly run my life, the moment came where I was able to say to myself out loud, “I don’t know what I’m doing,” Read more>>