Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Khadijah Thomas | Owner and product designer at Ramadan and Juliette, LLC & Speech -Language Pathologist

My company, Ramadan and Juliette, began sales in March, 2021. I provided holiday banners that are catered to the Ramadan season and Eid Holiday’s. My company is not by far ready for the Forbes list when it comes to profit haha, however I do have a pretty solid idea of how I see success at this time. Staying true to my vision in combination with allowing for space to learning about myself, the audience I design for, and times we are living in at that given moment. I understand success to be not only the dollar amount I am making overall, but the impact that my work and goods have on those around me. Read more>>

Marissa Yahil, MSOT, OTR/L, CBS, IBCLC | Owner of Lactation & Development Resources, & Co-Founder of The Lactation OT

The most important factor behind the success of my private practice has been the processes I put in place to attract clients who are facing specific challenges that I am well-suited to address. In doing so, I ensure that I am highly likely to able to help them achieve their stated goals. With private practice, clinical outcomes are absolutely everything. With good clinical outcomes, word spreads fast! One happy client tells a few people about the practice, which leads to more happy clients who tell more people about the practice. Read more>>

Sable Breeze | Singer and songwriter.

That I am constantly learning. In the music industry, you have to be. There’s a lot of information to take in on the many different skills, tactics, and strategies that are out there. There are also a lot of different opinions on what you “should” do which can be overwhelming. But constantly seeking out information, following your instincts, and finding what works best for you and what you can implement in your current situation is extremely important. You can’t be afraid of growth or of trying new things. I welcome constructive criticism and advice with open arms and always will. Read more>>

Deron Kawamoto | Chef and Gourmand

The key for me has been an eclectic background with a wide range of experiences. In a word: Diversity. I was born and raised in Hawaii, which is the home of Asian Fusion. People from many different Asian cultures live and cook side by side there and the exchange of ideas is amazing. Hawaii was Multicultural before most people had even heard that term. We moved to Texas when I was in high school and I began to appreciate the very different cuisine of my new home. Read more>>

Anna Mathews | Financial Literacy Advocate & Founder of Not Tomorrow

I think the most important factor behind my success is the community. Starting my financial literacy organization, Not Tomorrow, amidst a pandemic, I had trouble hosting events around the area due to COVID restrictions. But with the help of kind individuals who believed in Not Tomorrow and great feedback from teenagers in the community, I have been able to come this far and share the importance of financial literacy with an even wider audience. I love meeting with teenagers from different backgrounds as their enthusiasm and support makes my mission all the more worth it. Read more>>

Brittany Donnelly | CEO & Social Media Guru

Caring. I believe what has truly set my company apart from other marketing and social media agencies is that I give a damn– sometimes a little too much. (that’s where no sleep comes in 😉) I take the time to get to know my clients– I see the blood, sweat, and tears that they have poured into their companies and I have no choice but to reciprocate that same energy. I am their number one cheerleader. When you yourself actually believe in someones brand, the way you market it becomes unparalleled. Read more>>

Amy Schelle | Modern Quilt Pattern Designer

The quilt patterns I design are very modern and minimalist. I also design my quilt patterns in solid fabrics so that the quilt pattern itself is the pattern you see instead of having the distraction of busy, floral fabrics like you might typically see. I believe this makes my quilt patterns unique and my hope is that they attract younger quilters to join the quilting world so that this is an industry that will continue to grow and change with new inspiration. Read more>>

Roy Wragth | Entrepreneur | Veteran | Automotive enthusiast

The most important factor behind my success/ brand success falls upon three words. Action, Belief, Consistency. I learned these terms in my 365Driven Society. A community where entrepreneurs support and help each other in both personal and professional aspects of life. In terms of of the three words, they can be further broken down as follows. Take action, believe in yourself and your vision, and remain consistent no matter what. For me sticking to those three words have allowed me to maintain a clear mind and work around any challenge that may arise. Not only has it helped me personally, but my brand has seen growth and impact from it as well. A couple takeaways here; Read more>>

Jonathan David | Custom wood worker

There are multiple factors that contribute to Palletwoodguy’s success – quality workmanship, excellent customer service, building value and trust with clients – but the most important factor for the past 5 years for me has been trust in God. The skills, the tools, and the business knowhow are all necessary, but I’ve realized that, ultimately, it’s been God that has helped my small business not only survive the past few years, but expand and thrive! Read more>>

Eddie Wiewel | Realtor

There’s no doubt- it starts with the people that I surround myself with every day. I was always business-minded and competitive, driving me to manage several businesses in my early twenties. This came at a great cost though, as I was so numbers-driven and focused on statistical success that I hit a personal abyss that included a failed business and divorce in the same year when I relocated to DFW at the age of 23. Read more>>