Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Dora Welch | Women’s Boutique Owner

The most important factor behind my success is faith and prayer. Believe it or not, I prayed for everything I have. This boutique didn’t come by accident, let me tell. I prayed for my vision, for an opportunity, for the right resources, and for the drive to go hard when the opportunity came knocking. Read more>>

Lalisa Sweat, Attorney at Law | The Corporate Dropout

The most important factor behind my success was understanding the market and understanding what the community desired. Once I was able to identify the needs within my industry, I was then able to find a solution to that need and turn build a platform that supported the needs within my industry. Read more>>

Claribel Casas | Owner & Baker

The most important factor in Pupcuterie Boards is the happiness my homemade treats bring to all the fur babies. My favorite part of this business is receiving all the photos and videos of pups enjoying our treats. Read more>>

Sway Ambrose | Editorial & Lifestyle Photographer

There’s no one factor that’s behind my photography career more than any other. I started taking pictures when I was younger, and it’s always been a passion of mine. But what really drives me is the ability to capture great visuals and share them with others. Read more>>

Gia Young | Mortgage Broker

I will say the key factor behind my success is simply helping others. My drive is not solely based on selfish ambitious. My overall goal is to spread wealth through knowledge. Read more>>

Rene | Bottle Girl, Nightlife Manager, and Content Creator

Having support. I changed the types of people I spent most of my time around. I built a team around myself that believes in my plan, my dreams, my goals and works to execute it alongside me. Read more>>

Ashleigh Solomon | Houston Realtor

I would say the most important factor behind my success would be my family and support system. My support system keeps me grounded daily and reminds me all that I have done and will achieve in the future. Read more>>

Ryan English | Vocalist, Guitarist

The most important factor behind the success of our band is just staying true to who we are as individuals and as a band. We don’t try to be like what’s trending right now, genre jumpers, or people who are just cashing in on “what’s hot” right now. Read more>>

Mariam Diallo-Bah | Owner of Pure Aloha Beauty LLC

The most important factor behind Pure Aloha’s success is definitely my passion for what I do. I wake up everyday looking forward to working on my business in some form. Read more>>

Shawn Carreon | Managing Director/DJ

For me, the most important factor behind my success is God. If it wasn’t for God, then I wouldn’t be where I am today, I put Him first in everything I do. Read more>>