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.

Timothy Woods Adams Holland | Chocolatiers

Timothy and myself are focused in providing the highest quality of truffles by using the finest chocolates, ingredients, and expert craftsmanship. We have been creating truffles for over 30 years and have been in our Palo Alto location for 10 years. Read more>>

Ryan Anderson | Talent Manager and A&R

Remaining true to oneself is the most crucial aspect of achieving success. Success is often subjective, encompassing not only financial gains but also the relationships we cultivate. At Abridge Entertainment, our mission is to bridge the divide between artists’ aspirations and their current standing in the industry. Read more>>

Patrick Ortman | Maker of Stuff @ Froth & Fur

I’m not shy about trying something new. For instance, way back when I was a web guy I was working with a radio station in Atlanta- 99X, alt-rock. And they had an event coming up. I think it was their Chinese New Year concert, and the guy in charge asked if anybody had some ideas about to make it special. Read more>>

Merideth Hite Estevez | Oboist & Author

The most important factor behind my success is…. redefining “success.” When we live in unity with our unique core values, we achieve something better than success. We find sustainable joy. Taking the time to do the work of belonging first to yourself by getting to the core of who you are and what you want, will help you define success on your terms. Read more>>

Ally Sprague | Leadership Coach

Having friends and family who encourage me to think bigger and always remind me who I am and why I do this when I question myself or feel uncertain. I love what I do—coaching with someone, getting to witness their journey, being a partner to them as they discover who they want to be feels like a true privilege. Read more>>

Trevor Wilkins | Startup operator, mentor, and founder

“You got two ears and one mouth for a reason,” that’s what my grandma always used to say to me and I think that’s been a big contributing factor in my success. I wasn’t always a fan of it but as I got older and more curious I realized that the wiser folks around me were always listening, studying, and taking notes – especially when people are talking. Read more>>

Maahleek

Honestly the most important factor would be consistency. I’ve seen my page grow so much by simply putting in the time and effort to create content. Another factor would be Instagram reels & making diverse content. Read more>>

Lucia Desimone | Singer-songwriter

I think a mindset that I have been applying lately in my life that has helped me succeed is to NEVER limit myself. If I can feel something is not quite right for me, I don’t force it, because I know that something even better is just around the corner. Read more>>

Megan Gallegos | Content Creator

The most important factor behind my success is being really consistent. Putting out content consistently is the #1 way to grow an organic following on any social media platform. I’m also really consistent with reaching out to brands for collaborations, engaging with my followers, and coming up with new ways to promote myself.  Read more>>

Melanie Levin | Owner and Principal Planner, LuckEleven Events

I firmly believe that I would not be where I am today without my community. The people that I choose to surround myself with have played such a huge role in my growth. Over my past 14 years in the industry, their mentorship, referrals, knowledge-sharing and assistance have played a crucial role in my personal and professional development. Read more>>

Adam Moon | Restauranteur & Entrepreneur

Technology. Being an early adopter of third party delivery apps helped us establish our online presence and optimize our off premise workflow processes. Finding economical but functional to-go packaging, managing couriers, rapid fulfillment of orders, efficient expo practices, and tablet management are just a few of the many aspects we were able to upskill. Read more>> 

Katharine Story | Creative Director : Katharine Story

Passion plays a giant part in my success. Because I am interested in bringing more beauty and creatvity to my life and the lives of othrs. I am curious about everything and how i can relate it to my brand and share nd inspire my community. Read more>>

Karlton Fisher | Founder or R.E.E.L, Owner of REEL UNIVERSITY

Consistency, consistency is the main key to success, along with discipline. When I started REEL, motion started off a bit slow as an indie label, and over a couple years it has become a major house hold name. Many of my artists gets huge placement, and my clientele for my studio wen up over 60% in the last 4 years. Read more>>

Queen Amina

The most important factor behind my growing success is my ability to fluidly shift through creative directions, as it allows me to merge various ideas, techniques and visions all into physical creations. The variations in the many creative fields out there mirror different worlds, each having their own particular rules and expectations and that adaptability helps one easily blend and thrive wherever they choose to go. Read more>>

Alia Elasmar | Founder/CEO, Therapist and Professor

Undoubtedly, authenticity and integrity are the most important factors behind my success. The fields of mental health and education are not much different than other fields when it comes to external or hierarchical pressures to perform a certain way or deliver a certain message. Read more>>

Wendy Tigerman | Advertising Creative Director/Radio Writer and Producer, Mixed Media Artist

I’ve had some success selling my art. And my collage book will be published within the next few weeks. The marketing for that is mostly reliant on the website I administrate that has almost 15,000 artistic members. In general, personal sales have almost always come from being accepted into shows and stimulating interest. Read more>>

Aline& Alena Petunia | Tattoo artist

The most important factor behind the success of our female-based tattoo shop in Beverly Hills is our personal journey and the unique touch we bring to every piece we create. Coming from Germany, we wanted to bring a slice of our home to a new audience. Read more>> 

444 dust | Contemporary R&B Singer with Jazz Influences

I would say my faith. The name “444 dust” is a tribute to the profound Bible verse, Genesis 3:19. It encourages me to stay in the present and cherish every moment. I go by “4 dust” or “444,” though my early music was released under a different pseudonym. I started making music in 2020, those were the Soundcloud days! Read more>>

Misty Mansouri | Entrepreneur

I believe in keeping the integrity of the brand. It’s so easy to get caught up in “what is trending now”. That doesn’t mean thinking narrow, or not being flexible, because you consistantly have to grow and change with what is happening around you. However, moving with intention and knowing the what the foundation is. Read more>>

Max Simon | challahdad

Keeping things fun, light and inclusive. This is a bread brand for crust’s sake! Read more>>

Theo Okuribido | Founder, CEO, Fry Cook, You Name it!

The most important factor behind the success of FryDay Food Truck is our unwavering commitment to delivering a consistent and exceptional experience to our customers. From the very beginning, we understood that consistency in flavor, value, and service would be the cornerstone of our brand’s identity and success. Read more>>

Pranto Podder | Creative Director | Photographer | Filmmaker

The cornerstone of my success, and that of my brand, is undoubtedly hard work and unwavering dedication. From the outset, I have maintained a laser-focused commitment to my goals. Success is not an overnight phenomenon; it is forged through relentless effort and unyielding determination. Read more>>

Lindy Day | Musician, Educator, Guitar Influencer

It wasn’t education, it wasn’t waking up at 6am, and it wasn’t passion. The most crucial factor has been the ability to change and adapt—some call it fortitude. It’s staying calm and pushing forward in the face of challenges. Read more>>

Amani Saab | Founder

AMANI SAAB the label was essentially born out of the desire to create statement pieces that are rare, intentional and that leave a lasting impression. We design sustainable, exclusive and unique styles for women to enjoy throughout special moments in their lifetime. Read more>>