What would your closest friends say really matters to you?

If you asked your best friends what really drives you—what they think matters most in your life—what would they say? We posed that question to entrepreneurs and creatives from all walks of life, and have shared some of the most interesting responses below.

Paul Caranicas

My close friends know that what matters most to me is Art… with a capital A. it’s what saves us from sinking into unimportant preoccupations or social constrictions, and allows us to dream and explore things that are truly important. And hopefully to be able to impart to others some of what we learn along the way. Read More>>

Narkis Eserig

My closest friends would say about me: Narkis is a strong, independent person. She has been through some rough times, but she didn’t let that define her. She always has a smile on her face, and truly believes that no matter how tough life may get, it’s only temporary. Keep a positive attitude, and one smile can brighten up someone else’s whole day. Read More>>

Kirsten Hellmer

I think they would say a work hard play hard mentality. I like to work, probably too much, but I also like to play, meaning go hiking, snowboarding, kayaking, walk my dogs, plant my garden, hang with my chickens, etc. I believe that while working hard is important, so is having many hobbies and a balanced life. Read More>>

Matthew Corozine

truth. loyalty. important to constantly evolve and change and grow. forever curious. coaching and teaching. fitness. and ofcourse acting and self expression. Read More>>

Kim Bell

My closest friends would say that my personal relationship with Jesus Christ matters most to me. I went through a really dark period of my life and thought I might die towards the end of 2016. In the middle of my health crisis, a woman prayed for me asking God to help me and save me after all health care had failed. Read More>>

Jessica Pavelka

My closest friends would say that creating meaningful connections and bringing people together from all walks of life truly matters to me. They’ve often shared how much they value the gatherings I’ve hosted, not just for the fun, but because those moments have allowed them to meet new people and build lasting friendships. Read More>>

Tracy DeJarnett

I once attended a women’s luncheon just two weeks into a new job, and I found much of the advice – lean in, speak louder, be heard by men – felt paradoxical. All I could hear was: to succeed here, you need to be a man. So when Madeline took the stage, I was relieved. Read More>>

Lia Croke

I think my closest friends would say that what really matters to me is to fully enjoy life. They know I love to experience everything deeply and with my whole heart. Whether it’s traveling all over the world or just a cozy meal and a glass of wine I just want to feel present and grateful Read More>>

Carrie Peters

Humor. You just gotta have a sense of humor. If I can make my customers laugh via what i’ve said or emailed, then it makes me happy. My friend in Boston says I’m ‘wicked funny’, I once worked at the restaurant with a young man who was a comedian, and actually performed on stage. If I could make him laugh, it was a bonus. Read More>>

Nick Cane

I would hope they see the huge love I have for them and my absolute dedication to their well-being. What matters the most to me is people. It’s real connections about real things with real people. I don’t care about the abstract, indirect connections – I want the stuff that you feel. Emails and spreadsheets don’t matter! Read More>>

Dianny Pena

If you asked my closest friends, they’d probably say that family, community, and being real are what matter most to me. I’ve always believed that the connections we build with people are the most important part of life. Read More>>

Amanda Rose

If you asked my best friend Tony what matters most to me, he’d tell you without hesitation: animal welfare and the environment. These aren’t just causes I support in passing; they’re at the core of how I live my life and make decisions. Read More>>