Webster doesn’t know everything. Some words can’t be defined by a dictionary. Rather they are defined by our values, ethos, and principles. We asked hidden gems from the community about how they define success and have shared their responses below.

Boss Lady Stacey Grondahl | Owner, Operator & Creative Director

To be quite frank, success (to me) is in the eye of the beholder. Many individuals out there believe success is growth, in size – Examples being, franchising, or additional locations. Other individuals might think of success as how popular you are, and not your size. That’s what I call stereotypical thinking, or “inside the box,” mentality. You’ve gotta think bigger, than what society deems “successful.” Personally, I’m a fan of the “cult” hits, which is what I believe WE DO MEN (a male concept spa) is. The locations that are secretly awesome. Even such locales, let’s say Texas, where there’s a barbecue spot that’s open at 10 in the a.m., and closes when they sell out. I love those stories, those categories of success, the hidden gems. Again, that’s just MY preference. For reals thought, It’s not about size… It’s about the story, the passion, the integrity, the brand, the customer service, the authenticity, and the overall history. Even the infamy. Read more>>

Jannae Chester | Photographer

My definition of success is accomplishing goals that I set out for myself and just being happy with what I’m doing. Also knowing that my work will bring happiness to others. Read more>>

Robyn Moore Patterson | Public Relations Pro

Success in business and in life mean different things to different people but to me, success is simply measured by how happy you are. I do not look at success as how much money you make or what car you drive. I believe success is living the life you want and deserve, and that includes working a job that empowers you to constantly grow and make a difference in other people’s live. Read more>>

Brittany Nemec | Wedding & Portrait Photographer

Defining success is so tricky because it truly depends on the person, the goals, and what your purpose is behind it. For myself, defining success is something I have truly struggled with. Is it me making a 5 figure income or a 6? Is it me donating my time and money to help others in need with my gift/talents? I would say yes to both of those. To dig even deeper, I find that the true meaning of success is what you make it. It’s whatever makes you happy. I absolutely adore and love what I do. I wake up and enjoy being able to capture precious moments for people to freeze and remember for a lifestyle. Telling their stories. Something they can look back on for years to come, to show their kids and their grandkids and future generations. I find happiness in being able to provide happiness to my clients. If I barley made any money but I love what I do and it truly blesses me and fills my cup, then I am 1000% succeeded in my career and in my life. Read more>>