We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Elaine Olson | spiritual director, writer, artist,

Success is knowing within your heart that you have done the best you can, lived with integrity as you did it, and loved others along the way. And hopefully, along the way, I will have made a positive difference in the lives of others. Read more>>

Ivan Khudoliy | Professional ballroom dancer, choreographer & instructor

As a dedicated professional ballroom dancer and instructor, my journey in the world of dance began at the age of 6. The fundamental habits that have fueled my success revolve around the unwavering commitment to discipline and consistency. In the ballroom dance, excellence is not achieved in an instant but through a daily dedication to mastering one’s skills. The intricacies of this particular dance style require a relentless pursuit of mastery, driving me to dedicate countless hours to practice. Read more>>

sam hurd | photographer

I know it might be counter intuitive, but I believe that not being particularly concerned with habitual goal setting was a big factor in my success as a photographer. This is a lesson I learned through the craft of photography itself. If I went into a space with a rigid idea about what I expected, or wanted, to get out of a photograph then I would almost always fail to recognize a better option nearby. Instead of setting specific goals and attempting to meet them, I became very flexible and adaptive both creatively and in my business. This sustained a wide path for success. Read more>>

Shanda Butcher-crook | Sassy classy treats baker

Well, I believe that from the beginning I have been very vocal about my craft. I’ve always been very honest with my customers and stood behind my concept. If someone sends me a message for a custom dessert. My first response is ALWAYS absolutely yes I can do this flavor and I can do it very well but you should know I am NOT a cake decorator I do NOT use fondant or loads of food coloring and my handwriting is atrocious so i dont write on cakes either i’m ALL about TASTE. Taste is what you get with me you will get flavor bombs and textures that are absolutely amazing. But if your looking for a pretty centerpiece decor type cake im so sorry thats not me but I can recommend someone else I’ve seen post. Read more>>

Bethany Shafer | Hairstylist

I credit my success to my family, friends and clientele! To have a successful career as a hairstylist, you have to build a relationship with clients and provide a service they love. So I believe the most important factor behind my success is my ability to dive deep and be intentional with getting to know my clients. I am a very relational person so I love having a job where I spend hours with each person and learn about what makes them who they are, all the while being creative through each different service I provide! Read more>>

Samantha Rose Hicks | Professional Tarot Reader, Author, and Spiritual Coach

The most difficult decision I had to make was actually starting my own business. I worked in corporate America for such a long time and was very comfortable there. So, to take the risk and leave to start not only my own business but a business in mysticism was a huge risk. I am thankful every day that I took the risk, but at the time, it was the scariest, most difficult decision of my life. Read more>>

Kay Clinton | Full Spectrum Doula

Becoming a first-time mother can be an overwhelming experience, especially when transitioning back to work. This was the situation I found myself in after having my first child, which is why I considered becoming a doula. After training as a full spectrum doula, I was equipped with the knowledge to create a postpartum plan that ensured a smoother transition when I had my second child. My personal experience has led me to develop five focus areas that moms can use to create their own plan when transitioning back to work. These areas include Physical Recovery, Emotional Adjustment, Feeding Challenges, Sleep Deprivation, and Childcare. Following these focus areas enabled me to return to work with confidence and ease, and now work/life balance is in alignment and doesn’t bring anxiety or stress. Read more>>