We asked some folks we admire to share one piece of conventional advice they disagree with.

Ashley Foster

One piece of advice I disagree with would be “Success comes to those who wait.” When I started Asola Swim at 22 years old, I had no idea where to start, no roadmap, no co-founder, and no experience – I just had a vision and the determination to make it happen. If I had waited for more experience, more funding, or the “right” moment, I’d probably still be waiting. The reality is, there is no perfect time, and you’ll never feel 100% ready. I’ve built my business by figuring things out step by step, making mistakes, and using them as lessons. The best way to gain experience is by doing. Read More>>

Michael Winson

Oh man, where to begin! Let me state a few things at the outset because starting your own business is like going to Medical School, only in your case, there are no instructors, no teaching hospital, no E.R. no midnight shifts to cover from time to time. You cover all the shifts, all the jobs, and set the schedule, the timeline, the meetings, the path out of thin air. If that sounds overwhelming, and intimidating, and made you sit up in your chair just now, then you’re made of the right stuff. Because, what they don’t tell you, is that it’s also thrilling. Every skill you’ve acquired along the way is going to be of use.  Read More>>

Scout Zabinski

One thing I got told very early on in my art career was that you should show up and make art every single day. At the time, I thought that meant I had to go to the studio seven days a week and actually sit and paint or draw or something like that. Now though, it’s not that I disagree, but I think my art practice and showing up is much more inclusive of an idea. To me, the art actually materializes in moments outside my studio. My life and the time I spend connecting with others, my environment, and myself is more the art than any painting. And I mean, I say this often, but I really mean it, if, at the end of my life, my greatest artwork is one painting, then I failed myself. My existence and our collective experience, I hope, is the best thing I ever contribute to or take part in creating. Read More>>