We asked some brilliant folks from the community to tell us about the most important lesson their business or career has taught them. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Kirian | Artist, Songwriter

Making music and writing songs is about more than just recording words over a beat. Those words have to mean something to you if they’re going to mean anything to anyone that happens to be listening. If anything, I’ve learned that there’s no better way to be creative than being yourself. Everybody has positive and negative attributes, but it seems as if only the positive aspects of life are represented and it’s a bit unrealistic. I want someone to get to know more about who I am when they listen to me and that means exploring and presenting different corners of my life. I’ve made plenty of mistakes – I don’t know anyone who hasn’t – but as I continue to grow, I can say that I’m proud of the man that I see when I look in the mirror and it’s that man that I want to show to people, flaws and all. Read more>>

Samantha Duff | Cake Decorator

That money isn’t everything! Sure it’s nice to have and is a necessity for every day living but it’s not everything. The smiles I get when a child sees their birthday cake or the screams of excitement when a bride sees her wedding cake is so much more rewarding. Read more>>

Marreio Esters | Master Barber & Hair Replacement Specialist

The most important lesson that running Detroit the Barber has taught me is that customers are the heart of any business. I have the luxury of developing close relationships with each any every one of my customers but larger businesses don’t always have that benefit. I’m often asked if I’m going to expand DTB and I really hesitate because I love the ability to stay so close to all of the loyal customers and maintain those relationships. I naturally love people and meeting new people so I feel like my model is perfect for me on a personal and professional level. Customer service, customer appreciation and enhancing the customer experience is always top of mind because I know if it weren’t for my customer’s loyalty and mutual appreciation, I wouldn’t have the immense. Read more>>

Jacquie Moesel | Creative Director and Owner of Moesel

One of the most important lessons I have learned through starting and growing Moesel is how essential it is to be flexible and adaptable. Each year of business (and especially last year) has come with new challenges. I have tried to remain flexible throughout and adapt production, sales, and distribution strategies accordingly. I think it is extremely important to have an overarching plan and goals for your business, but to still be willing to change strategies and techniques for achieving these along the way. Read more>>