People often ask about the best decision, but we think it’s also very enlightening to learn about people’s most difficult decisions and the frameworks they used to think through those decisions.

Shelley Roth | LinkedIn Trainer, Gender Non Binary and Inclusive Language Trainer & Author

Sharing my truth about my gender identity was most difficult. One of the things I include in my social media business training is it’s never a good idea to share your political beliefs, religious affiliations etc. as it may potentially cost you business. Well, of course I followed my own instruction and was drinking my own kool aid, so to speak. It took me a very long time, almost 20 years, to come out as a transgender/nonbinary business person because of this belief. What finally pushed me out of the closet was realizing that sharing who I am is living my authentic life. With my skill at creating course work for business, I now teach companies what it means to be gender non binary and why gender neutral language is important to a company’s bottom line. This is a much bigger mission for me than teaching them how to use social media for business growth. Read more>>

Luella Hackett | Licensed Esthetician, Beauty Bar & Spa (Concierge) Owner & CEO

This is a very interesting question and my answer is just as interesting to me. The most difficult decision I’ve made thus far is to chose myself and bet on me and my GOD given abilities. As a wife, mother, friend, aunt, cousin, sister, a woman period this felt like the most selfish thing in the world to me. Over time I had to realize that the best gift I could give to my family and those around me is a healthier more complete version of myself. I found myself operating out of emptiness and we all suffered for it. So the decision to chose me before everyone else was the most difficult but best decision I have made to date. This decision birthed creativity therefore my true passion and calling were cultivated. My mind was free and clear to focus on my GOD given gifts. I realized what I love which is skin, skincare, skin enhancement and self care. Read more>>

Aaron Henry | Foundry512 President, Ad Age Advisory Panelist, & Forbes Contributor

It would easily be letting a person go. At our agency we have a core mantra and that is “To forge greatness wherever it lays.” That includes personnel, the creatives and talent behind what we do. This particular person was brought on to a demanding project in which they were ultimately underqualified to be on. Other team members, including myself, stayed up many late nights reversing and fixing work before the client saw. We had given training programs, worked side-by-side, and had mentors and senior team members available nearly around the clock. Unfortunately, we had to replace the individual. When made the decision we had done so knowing we had all gone above and beyond to lift this team member up. They unfortunately did not see it the same way and a relationship was lost. The team went on to finish the project under extremely tight deadlines, but ultimately ran a successful campaign and picked up an award along the way. Read more>>