We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Caitlin Trainer | Family portrait photographer

For me, defining success has changed a lot throughout the years. Before having a family, success was saying yes to any photography opportunity. Seeing a full calendar, 7 days a week felt successful. Now that I’m married and we have three boys, success lies in the balance of home life and work. I no longer take weekend bookings and I don’t travel further than an hour for sessions. Read more>>

Abby Elise Baker | Artist

You know, I think every artist at some point has thoughts of giving up because of the unsteadiness that comes with this kind of career. Feelings of doubt keep us humble and let us know we need to keep working hard. And for me, whenever I get the feeling of giving up I tell myself to just keep going, and most importantly keep creating. I think it is also very important to let yourself feel those feelings of doubt and figure out why they are happening. Is it money, recognition, exhaustion, etc… Try and find that root cause. Once you think you have the cause, then work on how to fix it. Might be something as easy as giving yourself regular rest days. Or maybe it is more difficult to figure out and you need to work on it daily. Either way, how you come out at the end of the tough time makes you even more equipped to do it in the future. Read more>> 

Jack Adamant | Distorted Melody Maker

To answer this question, it’s important to reflect on why this career path felt right in the first place. It was never about achieving fame or drastically changing life; it’s always been about wellbeing. Music has been a companion, a powerful way to understand who I am and to express emotions naturally, without overthinking the outcome or where it might lead. The thought of giving up has crossed my mind many times in different areas of life, including music. Read more>>

Desttany Groesser | Photographer & Social Media Coordinator

As a parent, I’ve come to realize that my most profound teaching moments aren’t in the words I speak, but in the life I lead. Children don’t just listen to our guidance—they watch our every move. How can I expect them to believe in the values I preach if my own actions tell a different story? By aligning my words with my actions, I show them what it truly means to live with integrity. In the end, the example I set speaks louder than any lesson I could voice. Read more>>

Liz Appulese | Herbalist, Cosmetic Formulator & Business Owner

The most important lesson that I have learned so far throughout my journey as a small business owner, has been perseverance. When it comes to beginning a new career, there are always ups and downs. I started my business when I was 20 years old, and learned everything that I know now from simply asking questions and persevering through obstacles instead of giving up. No obstacle is too big to accomplish if you think, plan, take your time and ask questions… You have to believe things are possible and really work towards your goals if you want to achieve them bad enough! Read more>>