To pivot or to persevere? Or more bluntly – to give up or to not to give up? This is a haunting question, a question that has ramifications far after an answer has been chosen and it’s also a question that almost everyone in our community has had to face at one time or another. How do you know when to give up and when to keep trying?

Alex Hanno | Writer/Director

When you’re passionate about an idea, a business, or a career, I don’t think ‘giving up’ is ever really an option. I’ve certainly had set backs in my life, moments where my career has zagged when I wanted it to zig, but those moments never deterred me enough to consider throwing in the towel. Read more>>

Mackenzie Judge | Founder & CEO of BLONDE PR

I think deciding to work for myself will of course always be an important decision that I made, however I wouldn’t of gotten to this point if I didn’t make what I think is truly the most important decision, which was leaving where I was before I decided to work for myself.  Read more>>

Diane Sherman | Artist, Writer & Teacher

As an artist, I am familiar with risk. Taking risks is one of the pillars of the creative process. Without taking risks we can’t discover anything new on our own. Art teaches me how to take risks – to try something and to “fail” is part of the process. Because there is not really “failing.”  Read more>>

Chris Bylsma | Actor, Director, & Owner/Lead Editor at Breakthrough Reels

Any bold move in your personal or professional life involves a pretty high degree of inherent risk. I feel like the important thing is just truly understanding that before you dive in, & that we accept that risk & are willing to take the shots when the time comes. Read more>>

Nicole Zimmermann | Somatics Coach & Ceremonialist

I feel fortunate to be at a place in my life and my career (and life) where I have developed a really beautiful relationship with risk. I actually full-heartedly believe that one’s capacity to take risks and lean into fear will determine the level of their success. Read more>>

Nia Renée | Actor & Traveler

Risk taking has played a part in every aspect of my life. I’m not one to play it safe, you could say haha. Everything from being an actor in this industry to spontaneously booking a trip out of the country; I’m a person who will always do what genuinely feels right in my life. Whether or not it seems a little crazy to others haha. Read more>>