We asked some of the brightest folks in the community to open up to us about the most important lesson their business or career has taught them. We’ve highlighted some of those responses below.

Kacey Gilpin | Interiors Photographer + Co-Founder of Strat House PR Firm

Let yourself evolve. I always joke that I started a photography business by accident. I was between teaching jobs and had babies at home, so I started taking family and newborn photos for fun, charging $50. Unbeknownst to be, I was laying a foundation for a full-blown photography career. Read more>>

Ben Graham | Physician Associate

There are many days with ups and downs but you need to keep still looking forward and adjusting your approach. Being a business owner means being flexible and willing to put in the work even when you think you can’t. I also feel a new admiration for other small businesses now because I have a taste of the obstacles they’ve had to overcome to get to where they are. Read more>>

Tracey Raber | Entrepreneur, owner of Traci Raber Salon Studio and Neurofeedback Associates of Texas

As a pre-teen I had an early interest in the creativity of the beauty industry. I loved the imagery in magazines like Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and the like. The beauty inspired and sparked my creativity with hair and makeup. I saw and experienced how that could transform how a person feels and how they are perceived in the world. Read more>>

Jay James | Founder of The Ink Maven LLC and 501C3 Non Profit Organization Ink’d In Love Inc.

It’s forced me to have patience, faith, and confidence in myself. I’ve always been everyone’s cheerleader and advisor but when it came to me, I was my very worst critic. It’s easy to quit and walk away, especially when you have constant challenges in forming your own business. Read more>>

Ally Joven | Founder & Owner of Alexandria & Co.

The most important thing I’ve learned through owning Alexandria & Co. is resilience. Some seasons are slow or challenging, and at times I lack the motivation to continue on with my business. But every time I’ve faced a difficult moment or a mundane season, I’m able to press forward because I remember my vision. My vision for Alexandria & Co. Read more>>

Sonja Beauchamp, MBA | Business Founder/Owner

I’ve learned To Keep Pushing Forward. All the while, taking my new learned knowledge with me to the next level. Failure is to be expected when you are striving to achieve anything. However, it is your passion that will make you stand tall and use your failures as stepping stones. Read more>>

Danii | Singer, Songwriter, & Dancer

The most important lesson my career as an artist has taught me is to be brave and to always take a chance on myself. Everything I create and choose to share has my heart in it, it can be a very vulnerable process. I like to write music that is authentic to myself and my personal experiences. Every time I step on the stage, release a new song, or post a video I have to be fearless and confident in my abilities. Read more>>