To pivot or to persevere? Or more bluntly – to give up or to not to give up? This is a haunting question, a question that has ramifications far after an answer has been chosen and it’s also a question that almost everyone in our community has had to face at one time or another. How do you know when to give up and when to keep trying?

Leah Humes | Fashion Designer

starting: In 2019 I was getting ready to graduate with my bachelors degree from Ferris State University. I was having a hard time trying to decide what kind of job I wanted after school. I always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, but there were very few options seeing as I was graduating with a Marketing degree and no experience in the fashion industry. I would be lying if I didn’t mention the frustration and confusion that came with that. I reached out to upcoming designers in my area, was willing to learn for no wage. I just wanted to have something on my resume that was fashion related. Read more>>

Maysun Alabi | Makeup Artist

This question has been a constant battle since I first started doing makeup. I have my days and moments where I feel like giving up and think maybe this isn’t for me and it’s not going to work out. I have learned over the years that I cannot be too hard on myself, I am the only person who can determine my own success and happiness. I also became a mom this year so that has become my biggest reason to go harder and not give up. I know the life I want to provide for him and I know the life I have always wanted for myself so I have to keep going and not give up until I have the life I have always dreamt of. Read more>>

LaQuita Barnes | Author and Blogger

I take the basic concept of making a list of pros and cons. If my cons outweigh, my pros, then I know it’s time to give something up. I also, do a check in with myself to see how I’m feeling mentally and emotionally. If I feel more drained, that is also a sure sign for me to give up. Because at that point, I know I’ve done all I can, and have given all that I can give. If things don’t seem to be helping me grow, then 9 times out 10, it’s hindering my growth. Read more>>