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.

Rea Beaubien | Ceremonialist/Singer/Guide

Success for me has had to do with being authentically who I am while encouraging others to do the same. Most people sense how much I care, that I am a real person with integrity as well as a loving heart. I speak in truth and value laughter as good medicine for the soul. Challenges in my life have been gifts so I may better feel for those faced with uncomfortable or sudden changes in their lives. I do not hide all the dark parts of who I am. Read more>>

Leah Melzer | Vocalist of Capture This

I’d say writing content that’s consistent across all of our platforms. Aside from music, we run our social media, website, email blasts, etc. It’s important to share what’s upcoming because it’s one of the ways we can let people know what Capture This is all about and connect with fans. Read more>>

Svitlana Prystynska | Co-owner of Instagram museum

Our main goal is to give people positive emotions. I have been working in this field since high school and also had a part-time job as a photographer. It has always been important for me to convey people’s emotions through photos. Now in our business this is our main idea, because people who have visited our museum and received positive emotions and happy vibes will certainly pass them on to others:) Read more>>

Emmalee Shook | Personal Jeweler and Master of Crystology

I started Amber and Haze in 2011 with a purpose of helping people. Since then I have helped thousands of people over the world with the healing qualities of Baltic amber and crystal healing jewelry. I’ve focused on high quality materials and I stand behind my products. My customers wear their jewelry for many, many years and usually come back to adorn their close friends and family. Everything is made to order to the customers specifications. I am a certified Master of Crystology and I just love tailoring jewelry to suit it’s wearer! I know that there are alot of other places to buy amber jewelry but we genuinely care about each and every one of our customers! Read more>>

Kerry Sweeney | Jewelry Artist & Creator

The most important factor behind my success is that I have kept creating and evolving over the years as a small business. When I began my online business, I started by making handmade earrings out of a variety of crystals and stones. Over time, I started making necklaces, and then I learned how to make rings, and then bracelets, and so on. I began making every type of jewelry piece that came to mind. I created unique, one of a kind items that my customers genuinely loved. I would spend multiple hours each day “free styling” new items. Items that were top sellers, I continued to make, and even made similar items in different colors and styles. All of this, factors into the consistency of creating and continuing to expand my products. Read more>>

Patricia Smart | Founder, Author Adventures Literary Travel Platform

The most important factor behind the success of Author Adventures, a literary travel platform, is our openness to adapt our course as we gain a deeper understanding of our audience. When we began our passion project, it was intended for students in grades five through eight and their teachers or parents. The writing style was juvenile and each web page had surprise pop-up activities, like ideas for crafts, recipes, and games. The content was also linked fairly closely to school curriculum standards. Read more>>

Chikeeh Talker | Owner | Wedding Planner & Designer

Finding who you are in the Industry, truly loving and caring for what you do! For me I want to create an Experience for my couples and a connection. Just like clients choose me, learn about me and ask me questions. I do the same It has to be a harmonious decision. Ive always loved creating an experience. Whether that’s been for a guest when I worked in Hotels, or a Good Friend visiting me wanting a Unique night out. I find the creative and Artsy aspects in weddings so thrilling to create. Each couple is very unique and has a vision that I get to sit down, design and curate. When the event comes around seeing it all come together is so Exciting and Fulfilling! Read more>>

Zinnia Moon | Singer-Songwriter

The most important factor behind my success is my drive to do what I love and share my music and talents with everyone. Being successful comes down to how bad I want something, and if I will work as hard as I can until I achieve my goal. Feeling confident in my music allows me to have the best performance I can, in hopes to further my career as an artist. Read more>>