How do you know when you should keep going versus when it makes sense to cut your losses and try something new? It’s a difficult decision most entrepreneurs and creatives have faced along their journey and so we asked some brilliant folks from the community to share their thoughts.

LaToya Sparks | Personal Branding & Portrait Photographer

Being a creative in the photography industry can become overwhelming at times. However, what keeps me going first is remembering why I started. Also, I have two little people that depend on me everyday to show up. Read more>>

William Cumby | Youth Minister & Motivational Speaker

The feeling that my dream is bigger than me both scares me and excites me. Everyone has goals but goals never made anything happen. The process makes things happen. The Plan makes things happen. A relentless commitment to trusting God and fighting for what God has given me has created an insatiable desire for better! Read more>>

Kimberly Harris | Serial Entrepreneur–Lifestyler & Interior Designer, Real Estate Investor & Podcaster

God. You really don’t know whether to keep going or give up. My faith keeps me going. Entrepreneurship is a roller coaster ride. It is not for everyone. It will give you anxiety. You have really high highs and really low lows. However, when you are walking in your purpose, opportunities continue to present themselves. You have to listen to what the universe is telling you. Some are tests to see if you are ready. You have to do the work, retail persistent and stay on path. You have to be prepared for what you’re asking for-mentally, emotionally, physically prepared for the ride. Persistence, organization, and always striving to be better/learn more is what keeps me going. Giving up is the easy route. Nothing in life comes easy, and if it did, you don’t appreciate it as much. You will fail far more than you will succeed–especially in the beginning. Read more>>

Olu ASÉ | Emcee, Poet, Historian & Community Organizer

One of the determining factors in the continued pursuit of a goal, or objective, is your ability to recognize what works and what doesn’t. I believe that no one ever truly gives up, they just find find landmarks on the way to their true purpose. Read more>>

Johnathon Espinoza | Artist & Designer

How to know whether to keep going or to give up? If I’m not learning something directly applicable to bettering myself as a person or as an artist then I must make the conscious decision to move on. I try not to confuse my discipline for my stubborn resistance. Also, if I’m not making a monumental impact to a project, for example, in proportion to my efforts I will inevitably lose interest. Simultaneously, I act mindful to troubleshooting in light of reviving a project and what it will require to scale it to completion because you never want to underestimate yourself. Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance? Firstly, context balance as a verb. Read more>>