Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

TuT x TuT | Rapper & Song Writer

For my brand, I would say that the most important factor behind my success is my ability to create music that is not only unique and authentic but also reflects my personal values and experiences. Additionally, it’s important to note that I couldn’t have made it happen without the support of my family and close ones who have always been there for me and never gave up on me. Lastly, I think that my unwavering faith and belief in myself, coupled with my strong relationship with God, helped me overcome the darkest times and kept me on the right path. I never allowed any weapon formed against me to prosper. Read more>>

Kiera Walters | The Stylish Trendsetter

The most important factor behind the success of my business is that it’s not a hobby, it’s a passion. Styling is something I overall just love to do, it just comes easy to me. I can literally see a piece of clothing & ideas just start popping up in my head. Read more>>

Nadia Lynn | Motivational Speaker & Influencer

The most important factor behind the success of Lead By Motivation would be the fact that it shows other women like myself that it doesn’t matter where you come from, what you’ve been through, and definitely not how many times you start over. You can STILL become the best version of yourself! The version that you didn’t even know existed until you put in all the hard work & dedication. Lead By Motivation shows teen moms, Read more>>

Brandon Ellis | Performing Artist & Casting Director

Passion and love must be embedded in your journey to succeed at all times. For me it’s always been about honesty & inspiration & how I can touch other people’s lives like myself that may be watching along the way of my journey ! God didn’t just give me these amazing artistic gifts for myself. I believe they were given by God to me for me to share His love He has for me through them generously. Read more>>

Candace Waters | Content Creator & Social Media Manager

I am authentic. Social media has taught us to “ fake it until we make it.” So everyone is on the apps pretending to have it all together and suffering behind closed doors. I am fully transparent, no hiding because you never know how your honesty can heal someone else. Read more>>

Cynthia Cassillis Chalmers | Mixed Media Artist | Holistic Practitioner

There are actually two factors: the first is creating pieces that bring joy to customers. At artisan festivals, when an attendee comes to my booth, immediately grins or exclaims happily about something they see that I’ve made, that is the impetus that encourages me and brings me validation in what I’m doing. The second factor is that I am enjoying the process of creating these pieces. It’s a mediation of sorts to me, to lose myself in the elements that become the art Read more>>

Craig Sotkovsky | Personal Development Strategist and Motivational Speaker

The most important factor is that I focus on my client’s potential, and how that potential can be converted into their success. I have learned to listen past the words to see what they’re not saying; I pay attention to their body language and their unconscious cues that help shape the plan of action I create for them. In this way, their success becomes my success. Read more>>

Carrie Wata | Founder of Afro Mermaid Co.

The most important factor behind my success is my persistence. In spite of all the difficulties and oppositions that I’ve been faced with, I don’t give up on myself. I invest in me and continuously remind myself that I’m trying to do something special for my community. Read more>>

Deja Williams | CEO, Entrepreneur & Model

The most important factor behind my success is faith. Having faith has played a key role in where I am today. As an entrepreneur or just anyone with a dream no one can see your vision but you and God and sometimes our current circumstances make that vision or dream seem impossible. That’s when faith comes in, beveling in something that hasn’t yet come to pass. When I started my business, I didn’t know what the future held but at that moment I had faith that I could build something extraordinary. Read more>>

King Mastermind | Co host on Every Voice Radio/ Ceo of Every Voice Entertainment

What the important factor is too keep on trying. Even when there a set back it will let you to a major comeback. So keep going. You will get there. Read more>>

Figaro Figaro | Pit Master & Cook

I think the most important factor would be knowing how unique and different my product is. And knowing that there’s no other product on the market like it. So I use that to my advantage. Read more>>