We asked rising stars from the community one of our favorite questions: other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?

Adam Romano | Fine Artist / Tattooist, Business Owner, & Museum Board Member

The single most important decision that I make every day that contributes to my success is my decision to be constantly present in every aspect of my process and to pour my entire effort (sometimes digging deep to find more energy than I think I have) into each and every opportunity that I am given. I recognize opportunity, I don’t take it for granted, and I reach beyond to find and create new opportunities that can showcase my value and worth within the artistic world and the greater community beyond. I use art and self-motivation to create more connections and pathways for myself, and others, to be able to follow. Each completed task of challenges does not slow down my forward momentum in business or life. Read more>>

Devotera Hill | Dance Education (Various Styles: Hip-Hop, Ballet, Modern, Contemporary, Ballroom, and more)

The single most important decision I’ve ever made that contributed to 2 Left Feet LLC’s success is the decision to be consistent. More so consistent in working on my business and adapting to current trends, state of war, pandemics, and overall environment (adjusting whom I surround myself-my circle). This drive comes from the original reason I started my business. I wanted to genuinely support my son’s dreams, which meant I had to pursue my own! Read more>>

Denise Carmichael | Photographer & Mom

As a parent, we always want our children to go big with their dreams. We inform them doctors and lawyers make the most money. We make them think money is what they should aim for; when in reality, it’s your heart you should follow. I was often told, “Oh, Photography isn’t a real career. You cant make a real profit from it” and yet here I am, making small strides, sure, but happier than ever in my decision. I don’t want my children to face the same obstacles as I did. I want them to follow their passions, their heart and know that a career can be made from those dreams. Someone’s reality is real because someone dreamed it once. Read more>>

Amanda L. Quick | Small Business Coach

The single most important decision that I made that has contributed to my success is asking for help! Asking for help from those who had started businesses long before me, those who started just a few years before me, those who were just starting, and also those who were resources for business owners.- lawyers, bookkeepers, bankers, etc. Read more>>