We asked some of the best parents we know to tell us about the most important thing they’ve done as parents and have shared their wisdom below.

Janelle Cato | CEO, Icon Beauty Supply

I have three children. 11,7,5. All of my children are employees of my business and at their young ages they all know how to work on and work in the business to a certain degree. I believe it is important for my children to see me building something outside of a job that I was given, I think it is important for them to see me give out jobs, work hard (as I still work a full-time job) and build something from the ground up. It will teach them that anything is possible with God and hard work. Also, I pray that they have triple the success I will have in this lifetime. Ownership is key! Read more>>

Erica Griffin | Photographer

I feel that after all these years of raising my children the impact I have on them is maintaining self respect, being aware of your actions and surroundings, and also knowing never give up on what you want to happen for your life. Life isn’t a race it’s a marathon. Stay the course, stay active, always learn new things, and live life to the fullest despite the setbacks. Read more>>

Case Bargé | Artist, Chef, + Entrepreneur

I think the most important thing that I have done as a parent is showing them that it’s ok to express yourself and be who they are. Read more>>

Bili Kribbs | Artist – Illustrator – Creative

Listen and observe. I have 2 very young sons. Often as a creative, I am chasing the child-like freedom to just create and tune out all of the overthinking and critical voices in my head. My kids know how to play. In our house any toy, craft or basically anything non-lethal or potentially dangerous is not off limits. I have seen them use things in imaginative and unconventional ways. Toys are utilized but not always in their prescribed manner. It’s important to us as parents to encourage creative problem solving and untraditional ideas to make something new. They are constantly surprising me, and it reminds me to teach them that life will throw lots of surprises at them. This is why practicing creativity is necessary. Read more>>

Crystal Render | Creative Director

As apparent, the most important thing I’ve ever done for my children was to show them that anything is possible. If you’re willing to work for it. Everything I’ve built thus far is to secure the life that I wanted to give them. And as a single mother, nothing means more to me than the fact that they have watched MMC grow from Sending out orders from using a home kitchen to serving three thousand employees for a large corporation. I believe wholeheartedly in leading by example and excuses are not an option. Read more>>