We asked rising stars from the community one of our favorite questions: other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?

Sean Day | Music & Fashion Photographer

Honestly, just going for it. The most important decision I’ve ever made was just jumping myself into the industry. I was just young enough to not have second guess myself into becoming a photographer. It’ll be ten years this year and I have zero regrets about it. Read more>>

Cortney Hendrix | Licensed Esthetician, Wax Technician

Believing in myself and really trusting God. I was so content in life that I was scared to step out on faith. I’ve worked behind the scenes for 3 years straight knowing that my time was coming. I was counting down the months and telling myself mentally when I was going to let my 9-5 job go. The fear and the process that came with all of it. It was a lot and very challenging. But with the grace of God I did it!!!!..I looked back and thank The Lord that I’m finally my own boss. No it’s not easy but it’s rewarding. I have a lot to learn but thankful that I’m at peace with the decision I’ve made to become an entrepreneur. Read more>>

Joshua Mitchell | Photographer & Videographer

The single most important decision I made that contributed to my success was not comparing my work to other’s work. We find ourselves sometimes competing with other’s work or even mimicking their work. I learned early in this business/field that comparison kills creativity. Do you and do it the way you want or envision to do it. Not everyone is going to love it but not everyone is going to hate it. The ones that don’t hate it are your people. Read more>>

D’Angelo Amori | Entrepreneur, Artist, Philanthropist & Humanitarian

The single most important decision I’ve made that contributed to my success has to be my willingness to be open-minded and explore. I NEVER want to be categorized, I refuse to limit myself to the possibilities that the world has to offer. There’s so many aspect of the world and I want to grasp as much as possible when it comes to what is meant for me! So with this important decision I also knew continually seeking education and experience would be another factor that would contribute to my success. Read more>>

Michelle Harris | CEO 3 Rivers Trucking School

The most important decision I have ever made concerning my business was to stay in business no matter what I faced! I needed to be the answer to my communities problems at all cost! I decided to make a stand and stand on it! Read more>>