They say life isn’t about the things that happen to you, but about the decisions you make. There’s a ton of coverage about the best decisions people have made, but not nearly enough conversation about the tough decisions. We asked folks we admire to tell us about the most difficult decision they’ve ever had to make and have shared some of those responses below.

Hailey Curtis | Entrepreneur | Life Coach | Agency Owner

In December of 2020 when I was laid off of my job due to COVID budget cuts, I was faced to make a really difficult decision. Do I continue to pursue a graphic design career that I invested five years of experience into or do I pivot to something else? I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur but felt so comfortable with my safe graphic design career. This safe graphic design career was far from fulfilling. In fact, it took more from my life than it gave to it. When I was laid off from my corporate job, I took it as a sign that it was time to leap into full time entrepreneurship. Read more>>

Rakeem Vick | VP/ Director of NIL of R3V Sports

As we are blessed we have a moral obligation to bless others. Through my journey of being a young African American business owner I learned the Hebrew term Tsaddiqim it means when the righteous proser the city rejoices. Read more>>

Lyisha Lollie” Allen | CEO of Clouds & Cocktails”

The most difficult decision I had to make was to quit my corporate job to focus on my business. My business began growing at a rapid pace and begin to loose control of the balance between my corporate job, my entrepreneurship and my home life. I kept saying I can loose out on this guaranteed money and benefits I have kids but my boyfriend said to me the same 8-10 hours you put in for your corporate job you can be investing in yourself. I put in my 2 weeks notice and haven’t looked back since. Read more>>

Nicholas Marque | Business Launch Coach & Strategist

The most important lesson that I’ve learned in business is to use what you have to get where you want to go! When I started my first business, I stayed stuck because I thought I had to build a website, grow my social media following and get everything “perfect” BEFORE I launched. If I could go back and coach my earlier self to get where I am faster I would’ve told myself 3 things: Read more>>

Andrew McCoy | Photographer

The most important lesson I’ve learned was surround yourself with a positive crowd of friends and family members. There’s been a few times where I’ve felt like taking a “break” from photography due to personal life issues and having less faith in my work at times. My family and friends played a big role into pushing me continue with my career. Also I’ve learned to be consistent with my work to get more practice on my craft and experiment with test subjects that are not normally my expertise. Practice makes perfect. Read more>>

Tajmaher Thomas | Actress, Model and Host

The most important lesson that my career has taught me is that you have to be consistent and you can’t be afraid to face challenges. Consistency is the key to becoming successful and facing challenges makes you stronger. Read more>>

Nyqueria Monique | Model & Entrepreneur

‘The most important lesson my business has taught me is to be adaptable because there’s always constant change in business. It is essential to adapt to not only your ideal customer, but also the areas of need in your business meaning whatever your business needs at the moment, that’s what you do. Read more>>

Kelly Clark | Business Owner

The most difficult decision I have to make is moving from Chicago to Atlanta. The reason why I say that is because I do not know anything about Atlanta but I am putting myself, my family, and my business in God’s hands, and I am walking by faith. Read more>>

Atiya mackey | Social Media Manager

Starting my business was the most difficult decision I’ve ever made. It required a lot of thought and stepping outside of my comfort zone. A profession in social media has always piqued my interest. So, when I first learned about social media management, I bought a social media manager course that was my first step. It turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. I researched so much about the industry. I honestly believed I’d be stuck working a 9-to-5 job and forever in debt due to student loans. Many people doubt that I can establish a business and make it profitable. I’m still proving them all incorrect.  Anyone can be their own boss; all they need to do is take the first step. Read more>>

Kimberly Stroh | Owner, SavvyMamaLifestyle.com

The biggest lesson my business has taught me is to take it seriously from the beginning. Don’t waste any time second guessing yourself. You want laser sharp focus, even if you’re the only one who believes in your goals. It’s true that time is money and every day that you waste could’ve been a step in the right direction. Read more>>