We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Xhosa Fray-Chinn | Photographer & Filmmaker

There are a few habits that I have picked up on when it comes to success. Rest, is one of the more important habits. When you are a creative, sometimes you need moments of nothingness. This doesn’t mean your mind isn’t always creating but it’s more about the act. Taking time to reset and recharge the battery in your back. Sometimes as artists we believe that we have to push ourselves to the limit to bring us the best results. I’m a firm believer in creating in spurts and making sure that your mental is right over forcing yourself to keep going. Read more>>

Lisa L. Baker | Founder of Ascentim

Funny you should ask. It is my lifelong belief that our habits can drive us from ordinary to extraordinary. I’m so passionate about this topic that I literally wrote an eBook all about it – The 9 Success Habits: Ordinary Habits that Create Extraordinary Results. (PS – You can download it for free at my website!) A key factor in my success has been setting a target. That might look different for different people; for me, it includes the selection of realistic yet challenging goals and defining what success means for each of them. Read more>>

Damiyon D.Kidd” Morgan | Actor, Writer

I believe over the years I learned to develop the two P’s. The first is Preparation. Preparing yourself for anything in life is important because it increases your chances at success. We all want success, but only a few are willing to put in the work to get it. With being an actor preparation is key. Whether it means rehearsing lines for hours or standing in front of a mirror practicing emotions. The second is Perseverance. Read more>>

Nadine DeRose | Social Worker and Artist

What habits do you feel helped you succeed? Self-Care, Gratitude and Creativity are the three most important habits that have helped me succeed. My profession as a social worker for Los Angeles County has it’s unique challenges. I have experienced compassion fatigue and I’ve had to learn how to practice emotional resilience to handle the daily stressors of my profession. Shouldering people’s problems day in and day out can take a toll after a period of prolonged work that can potentially have an effect on my own well-being. Read more>>

Kelly Decsy | entertainment immigration attorney and influencer

I am very much a creature of habit and schedule. I live a very hectic life that can things can happen quickly. However, i always wake up at the same time, work out at the same time in the morning…. sit down at my desk at the same time (now working from home) and drink my coffee for the first hour while doing initial emails. I find that have such a structured morning allows me not to freak out when some days everything goes awry. Read more>>

Joanne Rose | Screenwriter & Producer

Meditation, reading books, continual learning. Read more>>

Official Feature | Artist and Song Writer

I believe it consistency was one of the habits that helped me succeed. I’ve been consistent in doing the best I can with whatever opportunity or situation the Lord has afforded me to have. Whether it be driving for Uber, I need to be the best at it. I need to consistently work hard and provide the best customer experience. If I worked at McDonald’s, I would be employee of the year. No matter what I touch, I will do it with my whole heart unto the Lord. Those same characteristics carry into my music. Read more>>