Never give up. It’s advice that is thrown around daily – but is it always right? We asked some folks we admire about their thoughts around how to know when to give up and when to keep trying

Shanice Jones | Podcaster

I know that I need to keep going instead of giving up because I understand that I am not where I want to be. In order for me to be where I want to be in life including being successful, healthy, and happy, I know that I must continue to push through in order to meet those accomplishments. Read more>>

Fiona Dawson (she/her) | Executive Producer & CEO

In 2010 I literally quit my job to make my dreams come true, and it’s all Oprah Winfrey’s fault. I had a great job in corporate social responsibility working for a bank in Houston, my boss was wonderful, and there was an exciting career path ahead, but it just wasn’t fulfilling my soul. At that time, Oprah was launching her OWN network and had a competition to win your own show. I realized if I could do anything with my life it would be to host my own show sharing positive stories of people being kind and courageous in the face of adversity. We typically see the negative side in the news media — how horrific a situation is — and while that can’t be denied, we turn off feeling helpless and depressed. But those stories also have a positive view of the inspiring people doing things to make these situations better. Those are the people I want to meet and the stories I want to share, in order to enkindle more good in the world. Read more>>

Angie Proaño | CEO of Budegas

When it comes to starting a business, everyone knows that it is not easy. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it. That is one of the quotes that gets me through any obstacle with Budegas. I came to a point where after 6 months of R&D we got let down by our main supplier and literally had to start all over. At this point I wanted to give up, but I realized if I came this far why stop now. I believe at the point you should give up is when you have exhausted all your options and really reach a dead end. It is also helpful that when things fall apart to take a step back and analyze everything over again. This helps with seeing what other options you have or even can create! Again, at the end of the day I keep reminding myself ” If it was easy, everyone will be doing it”. Read more>>

Sheema Atta | Entrepreneur & Community Builder

It is different for everyone. It is a “choice” that you make for yourself. You can never keep going for long if it is forced on you. It is better to give up at times and other times giving up is not even a choice. Its not about being weak or strong it is only about you being honest with yourself. Ask yourself; What is at stake. What is making you happy? What is making you unhappy? What would be your next step if not this? Most importantly Why did you get into in the first place? Do you still get butterflies thinking about it? Does it excite you and gives you energy? Does it make you want to get back at it tomorrow? Then my advice is don’t give up. There is still something in there for you. Read more>>