What habits do you feel helped you succeed?

There is a wealth of research that indicates that certain habits can help increase your productivity, creativity, and/or drive. So, we thought we’d reach out to respected members of our community and ask them what habits they feel helped them succeed.

My work ethic. When my Dad told me I could go to Art School after high school, I dedicated myself to art from that day on. I bought a large sketch book and practiced drawing every day. Then in art school, I put 110% into every assignment and won a scholarship and graduated at the top of my class.
Out of art school, I got a job as a graphic designer. After a year, they were giving me raises every month. When I went out on my own as a freelance illustrator, I shared a loft studio with another artist and we had a cot between our easels. We would take turns sleeping on the cot as we worked around the clock on tight deadlines. Read More>>

I approach everything through the lens of creativity and curiosity. That mindset has shaped not just how I work, but how I spend my time outside of work. Since my day job in software often demands structured and linear thinking, I’m naturally drawn to hobbies that offer a different kind of flow. Snowboarding lets me tap into rhythm and movement. Hiking opens up exploration and problem-solving in new environments. Photography and woodworking have taught me patience, presence, and a deep appreciation for detail. Over time, I’ve started to see the thread that connects them all, and how they’ve collectively fueled my creative journey. Read More>>
One of the most impactful habits that helped me succeed is consistency. Whether it was learning new skills, meeting deadlines, or maintaining strong communication, showing up every day with focus and intent made a huge difference. I also developed the habit of setting clear, achievable goals—both short-term and long-term—which gave me direction and motivation. Another key habit has been staying curious and open to feedback. This helped me grow faster, adapt to new challenges, and continuously improve my work. Finally, time management and prioritization have been essential; knowing how to focus on what truly matters has helped me stay productive and avoid burnout. Read More>>

Before I went to law school, I was in the Army as a counterintelligence agent. Then I worked as an intelligence analyst as an Army civilian. Transitioning from the army to a law student, working for the Dept. of Justice, and finally to owning my own law firm has been a journey marked by discipline, adaptability, and continuous learning. Some of my key habits that have helped me succeed in my legal career are: Read More>>

I could say the usual habits like waking up early, exercising, or maintaining a daily routine have definitely helped me stay physically and mentally strong. But honestly, the most important habit that has truly helped me get to where I am today is choosing myself every single day. Choosing my well-being, protecting my energy, and having the courage to say ‘no’ when something doesn’t align with me. That inner commitment to honoring myself has been the foundation for making aligned decisions and staying focused on my path. Read More>>
