There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Jay Saint | Interview

The most important factor in the success of my brand is to ensure, that at all times, I am authentic and remaining true to who I am as an artist. Read more>>

Michael Jacobson | CEO of the French Florist brand, and operator of 3 French Florist units.

The most important factor behind the success of French Florist is our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. We’ve transformed the “old” traditional florist business model through the incorporation of proprietary advanced technology we’ve built, an incredible supply chain where we get better quality product at lower rates than others, and then most importantly investing heavily into the experience our clients and recipients get to have when they order from us.  Read more>>

Travis Horn | Humanitarian

My success can be attributed to two key factors: my humanitarian nature and my pioneering spirit. 13 years ago, I embarked on a journey, virtually alone, with no blueprint to follow. Social media was still in its infancy, and Instagram was only three years old. Yet, I persevered, driven by my passion to create and innovate. Read more>>

Drew Ganyer | Cinematographer

As a cinematographer, diversification has been the most important factor in my success. I work on a wide range of projects including narrative, commercial, music video, documentary and activations.  Read more>>

Andrea Huang | Founder & Creative Director of Andre Jewelry

Financial planning. For designers, it sounds cheesy to talk about money, but it’s really important for a newborn brand. I wouldn’t say my brand has already succeeded because it’s still in an early stage, but I have been aware of the importance of managing costs and cash flow. Read more>>

Jonah Anderson | Attorney

The most important factor behind my success as an attorney is a combination of deep legal expertise and a profound commitment to empathetic client relationships. In this field, understanding each case’s nuanced legal and medical aspects is crucial.  Read more>>

Janel Barlongo | Kali and Silat Instructor

I’ve found that the most important thing that has contributed to my success is reminding myself that at the end of the day, it’s not about me! Helping my students and seminar participants accomplish their goals, in whatever capacity that may be, is top priority. Read more>>  

Nia Lonette | Dancer, Choreographer & Business Owner

The most important factor to me and my success is my discipline and my community. Growing up I trained in classical dance styles that required us to train 3 hour a day for 5 days a week. We wouldn’t be able to showcase our progress or work til the end of the year. Read more>>

Matthew Paris | Writer/Producer

As a producer the most important thing is that you have the control on how to develop material. Film and television is a collaboration, but sometimes you can’t listen to everyone. Many different people have an opinion about where it should go. But, if you believe in yourself you can achieve anything. Read more>>

Brock Crockom | Actor & Musician

When it comes to success, I believe that mindset is everything. My first priority is to find the love in everything that I do. Being an actor and musician in Los Angeles can be a very harrowing experience, especially when you are first starting out! It is so easy to think “Well, this isn’t going well, I could have done better at this, I am not where I want to be” and blah blah blah! Read more>>

Brandon Tran | Cinematographer

Being surrounded by people that believe in you and support you. As a filmmaker, it is incredibly hard to communicate visually what you are tying to express. Most of the time your message ends up being cluttered by other technical priorities that you end up with a message completely different from what you intended. Read more>>

Proda Rolle | Producer / Artist

One of the most important factors for me has been consistency. When you’re up and coming, trying to break through and can seem almost impossible. People usually rock with things/ideas that they are familiar with. Read more>>

Maddy Leane | Actor & Filmmaker

The skill that’s helped me the most in my career is my determination. Like every other actor, I have been told no more times than I would care to admit, but It’s never once stopped me. I’ve been doing this since I was 8 years old and every success I have had has come from persistence and love for what I do. I wouldn’t have achieved a thing without the determination to keep going. Read more>>

Dr. Astrid Williams | Health Equity Advocate & Lifestyle Curator

The most influential factors behind my success is my dedication and drive to succeed in life. I believe my hard work and diligence set me apart from others. I have a very strategic work ethic following the path of determination and a commitment to achieving my goals no matter the challenge. Read more>>

Zahnae Aquino | Comedian and Producer of Fun & Flirty

Personalibility. I think my success has been reliant on the personal brand I’ve built for myself throughout my career and also my life. My brand speaks to a broad demographic in a relatable or conversational Gen Z-esque way, which has been very common in successful commercial brands recently–like Duolingo and Headspace. Read more>> 

Trevor Taylor | Yogi, Speaker, Educator, and Community Leader

Continuous learning. As a child, I remember reading encyclopedias, being excited about book order forms, asking questions, and questioning the answers. Curiosity keeps one open to new ideas. Curiosity also requires humility; the ability to accept that “I don’t know” and knowing that’s okay. Read more>>

Farnaz Soltani | Interior Designer

In my experience as an interior designer, I’ve discovered that the cornerstone of success lies in understanding and satisfying my clients’ needs and desires. Effective communication is key in interpreting their vision and creating designs that not only meet but exceed expectations.  Read more>>