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.

Paige Park | Esthetican/ Brazilian Wax Specialist

I think the most pivotal factor contributing to the success of Engage Beauty Studio is undoubtedly the unwavering work ethic instilled in me by my parents, particularly my father. Their relentless determination and willpower has been foundational, shaping my approach to business. Equally vital is the amazing support system they provide, coupled with the encouragement from my dedicated clients who continuously inspire and motivate me to pursue my dreams. Read more>>

Zoë Zahasky | Tattoo Artist

Personally I would say the most important factor in my success is that I truly care about my work. I care about the quality of tattooing that I put out into the world. I’ve said before in prior interviews that tattooing is not something that you can just pick up one day. You have to put so much time, love, blood, sweat and tears into this. To be a professional tattooer, you have to care a tremendous amount. Read more>>

Karen A. Bonarrigo | Co-Owner and Chief Administrative Officer of Messina Hof Winery

Messina Hof Winery is based on the three cornerstones of family, tradition, and romance. It truly embodies the personal passion of our family for winemaking in Texas, and we showcase our family’s heritage in every bottle and every hospitality interaction. The sense of personal connection that we have with our guests has created an amazing bond and sense of advocacy that carries on through word of mouth and has built a stellar reputation over our 45+ year history. Read more>>

Laleh Rezaie | Goofy Barber

I think I owe a lot of my success to the connections I’ve made with my peers, my neighborhood, and my clients. Through these connections, I found a cozy 300 square foot space to call home to my barber shop, continue to have marketing opportunities through magazines and local events, remain busy at work, and can find a friendly face anywhere in town. Networking is paramount to success, but I think it makes owning a business less intimidating. My business peers and neighbors are my council, and any business challenge I have faced is easily navigated through a good text or call of encouragement from them. Also, I have some of the most loyal, amazing clients. I’ve cut their hair in preparation for the first date, the big interview, the baby’s arrival, and their wedding day. We’ve talked about bad dates, potty training, job woes, current events, and mortality. It is such a huge responsibility and I’m always so excited to participate. It’s these personal connections that keep clients coming back – even when they’ve moved away! Read more>>

Sam Cumbo | Entrepreneur, Personal Trainer, and Strength and Conditioning Coach

I was fortunate enough when I first started in the industry to have great mentors. Without great mentors early on in my career, I’m not sure where I would have landed. Having great mentors led me to have understanding of the business world and how to take a passion and turn it into a business. I started out passionate to help people. Passionate to help people be healthy, find their ideal lifestyle, and see the best version of themselves. The thing is, passion only takes you so far. Having great mentors is what allowed me to turn my passion into the business we have today. Things that would have taken me years if I have ever learned them, I knew before even starting our business due to the wisdom and experience from successful mentors. My process became streamlined towards what I was looking to accomplish from listening to those wiser than myself and learning lessons early on in my career. Read more>>

Scott Latimer | Live Sound engineer

Be yourself, and have a great attitude. Be ethical and honest. Be the first to show up and the last to leave. My favorite is the 10 things that requires no talent “you can Google it”. I feel like my job is a privilege to get to do, so show up happy and willing to help because there are many out there that would love the opportunity to do what people like myself and others do. Read more>>