There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Aquavia James | Author & Small Business Owner

The title of my book (When Being Strong Is Your Only Option: Tears of a Bama Girl) is the most important factor because it speaks for itself, and when it comes to my small business Tink’s the important factor of that is the items that I have available. Read more>>

 Ashia Pace | Drinks by Ashia LLC

I would say the most important factors behind the success of my business are consistency and confidence. Of course your setup, cocktail creation, and, cleanliness all play roles in consistency but the behind the scenes are just as important. Training, preperation, & marketing to name a few, are the leading factors to staying busy and keeping my books full. Read more>>

Xanderz | Producer, Engineer

One important thing I always kept in mind was staying respectful, humble & thankful for where I am now. I’ve always had good intentions along this journey, so that helped me maintain a lot of relationships and open more doors because I could be trusted. Real hard to find in the music industry. Read more>>

Joshua Mouzon | Welder

The success behind my brand is people. In order for me to create a plate for a person I need people to share something they are passionate about or something that has meaning to them so their plate is something special to them or whoever they gift it to. For example there’s millions of johns out in the world but what makes you different from all of them. Why are you one of one and that helps me to create custom name plates for that person with something to symbolize it. Read more>>

Lena S. | HHIC | Head Hostess in Charge

The most important factor behind What’s Poppin’ USA is a combination of. approachability, sincerity and transparency. I lead my business like I lead my personal life. It is an open book and transparent. Most small business owners are skeptical and sometimes. scared; scared of being taken advantage of, and skeptical of the offering of ‘assistance’ that is out there. Usually. any type of ‘help’ is under the guise of a hidden agenda, with some sort of high dollar or high ticket item as the outcome. Read more>>

Monét | Rising YouTuber & Hbcu student

The important factor behind my success is God. Without him I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I’m grateful! Read more>>

Shakita Spalding | Baker/Dessert Creator

The most important factor behind my success is doing research. Research on how I can improve the products and services I provide. As well as, how to be a better business owner/entrepreneur. Read more>>

Ariana Gilchrist | Stylist, Designer & Creative

The factors behind my success and my brand is that I am still growing. I keep coming up with ideas that can expand my brand and my talents. I’m not the type of person to stay in one lane, I like to explore my thoughts on what else I could do. Read more>>

Sydney Guerrette | Founder and President of Be The Change Youth Initiative; Singer/Songwriter, Producer, Member of In The Company Of Wolves

Authenticity When it comes to the non-profit and with our music, if we weren’t completely authentic about who we are and where we are in our own mental health journeys, we most definitely wouldn’t be where we are today. Read more>>

Malia Squalls | Fashion Designer & Clothing Line Owner

The most important thing to me is my creativity, My ability to step outside the box and create my own lane is a huge success for my brand. You have to be able to create the new narrative in this industry and be confident while doing it. Read more>>

Andre Brown | Barber & Professional Brand Ambassador

My indifference to optimism or pessimism, I don’t base my work ethic on whether I feel motivated or unmotivated the goal is the goal Read more>>

Keisha Barnes | Creator and Business Owner

The most important factor behind my success is my beautiful daughter. Read more>>

Rene Epps | Floral Designer & Instructor

The paramount catalyst behind my achievements can be attributed to my unwavering faith in a higher power. With God by my side, I firmly believe that the realm of possibilities becomes boundless. Additionally, my resolute will and determination, fueled by the aspiration for a brighter future for both my son and myself, have played a crucial role in propelling me forward. Read more>>