We asked the community what factors they felt were responsible for their success and we’ve highlighted some of those responses below.
Levi Huddleston | Graphic Designer
I think the most important factor in my success as a graphic designer is my desire to learn. The industry is always changing. Technology, tools, and trends are all changing all of the time, and to run a successful business, you have to keep learning and adapting. In addition to the changing landscape of design and marketing, learning about your client and their business is critical to creating lasting and effective brands. So when I get the chance to learn what makes a mushroom farm successful, the processes behind making custom springs, or how precast concrete is utilized in construction, it genuinely excites me. It excites all of the partners at Always Creative, and I think that is one of the biggest factors to not only our success, but the success of our clients and the brands we build. Read more>>
Nelson Negron | President/COO
I feel the single most important factor behind our success is our faith. Everything we do is because we believe in Jesus. From the care we have for our clients to the work we do in our community, it all comes from the fact that this isn’t just a job or career but a calling. We believe we were called to meet people where they are in their financial lives and help them get to where they want to be. Whether you are just starting out and have very little or you’ve done a great job to get to where you are and just need a little extra help, you deserve to be treated with respect and care. Read more>>
Terrance Koontz | Community Organizer/Artivist
I believe that my ability to connect with others has been my greatest strength. I genuinely care about people and take a deep interest in their lives and stories. Over time, I’ve learned how to leverage these relationships not just for my benefit, but to uplift and support those around me. I’m always thinking about how I can extend a helping hand or be a blessing to someone else. It’s not just something I do; it’s a responsibility I carry as a child of God, to use my gifts and connections to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Read more>>
Kelly Thomas | Owner and Founder of Designed by Kelly
The most important factor behind the success of Designed by Kelly is the one-to-one relationships we build with each of our clients. We believe that providing direct access to us for questions, assistance, and support throughout the entire design process makes a meaningful difference in our clients’ experience. Instead of spending money on traditional marketing, we choose to invest in our clients by giving back through personalized services tailored to their unique needs. This dedication has earned us a 5-star rating and the honor of being voted Business of the Year by our clients through Alignable. Read more>>
Hannah Killebrew | Photographer
My business really took off when I started networking with other businesses in the industry. I was always afraid of being judged because I hadn’t been in the industry as long as most of the other photographers, but that was not the case at all. I have grown so much since building relationships with other business owners in my area. Most people don’t prefer to engage with others in their industry because they fear the competition, but I don’t because I have seen what it has done for my own business. Read more>>
Tristan Grimaldo | Founder | President | CEO of PriMALE Health: Men’s Wellness & Performance
The most important factor behind my success has always been **consistency**. I wasn’t the smartest person in the room or a natural genius, but what set me apart was my unwavering dedication to showing up, day in and day out, with a relentless work ethic. I embraced every challenge, not because it was easy, but because I knew that consistent effort would push me toward the best version of myself. Success didn’t come overnight—it was built through a steady commitment to growth, resilience in the face of setbacks, and a burning desire to continually improve. Read more>>
Lyndon Jones Angelica Robles | Digital Creator & Cohost / Public Figure & Cohost
The most important factor behind the success of Untying Knots has been showing up authentically. In a social media world full of perfectly curated images and scripted conversations, we’ve found that people crave realness—especially concerning personal topics like divorce, relationships, and self-discovery. Audiences resonate with real stories, raw emotions, and candid conversations so by being vulnerable, we’ve created a space for our listeners to feel seen and heard, which has built a deep connection with them. We share not only the highs but the lows, the ins and the outs, the messy parts, and the hard truths. Read more>>
Julian Solis | Tattoo Artist & Painter
I am still early in my career as a full time tattoo artist, but one thing that’s pivotal to my success is consistency. In 2024 I made the commitment to draw one flash design a day, and now I have over 200 drawings for my clients to choose from. I think seeing consistent posts keeps me in the forefront of people’s minds when they’re considering their next tattoo. It’s also beneficial for social media, since the algorithm favors regular posts. It’s fun to look back over the past 200-something days and see how much I’ve grown as an artist just by dedicating myself to a daily practice. Read more>>