We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger selves. Check out their responses below.

Stephen Kissel

Last year around this time, my wife and I actually bought a house in town — so it’s been really enjoyable working on that and finding random items here and there to make it more comfortable. It pretty quickly felt like ours with all the collections of toys, art, and other tchotchkes, but adding special things we love always just makes it feel more like OUR home. Read More>>

Abi Horton

Wow, what a way to start! Right now, I am being called to share more of myself, my story, my knowledge and my experiences with the world. I have always been afraid of putting myself out there but in this season of my life, I am realizing that there are people out there that could benefit from hearing my story and me sharing my knowledge. I realized, very simply put, if the people I learned from, didn’t dare to put themselves out there when they did, maybe I wouldn’t be where I am now. I want to be that gift, that inspiration, that value to someone else and I can’t do that by working quietly behind the scenes. Read More>>

Jonathan Kidwell

On most days, my first 90 minutes look the same. They all include the same 5 things. I say most days because I have 3 kiddos (8, 5, and 3 years old). So sometimes there are still some “exciting” nights with variable sleep patterns. Read More>>

Kym Nicole

Wow! This question makes me a little nervous.

The battle I’m avoiding is stepping out from behind perfection. I’ve spent years helping others feel flawless, yet with my own artistry, I fear being judged–especially since I’ve felt that criticism from people closest to me. So, at times, I play it safe, even though the truth is, I’m winging it…I’m still figuring it out as I go.  Read More>> 

Gregory Blair

I think most of us who are artists, no matter how introverted we may be, have a desire to connect: we have something we want to express–for ourselves and to others. But art is very subjective and personal, and you never know if other people are going to respond favorably to your work.

At the recent advance screening of my new film “The Mystery of Emma Thorn”, an audience member came up to me in tears; we hugged, and, in my ear, he said “Beautiful. Just beautiful!” Read More>>

Sarah Melendez

The funny thing is that I think other people do not actually believe me when I tell them what my business is about. When someone asks me what I do for a living, I say ‘I am a designer and I create patterns for wallpaper and fabric.’ When I say this, I kind of get a reaction from people like they don’t believe that that is a real job, or they don’t think that there are real people out there creating the patterns that they use in their daily lives. It is so easy to just travel through life and not take stock of the art that is all around you every day and brings you a little bit of joy.  Read More>>

Robert Trumper

EcoServants® is forging a bold new path toward global environmental sustainability. My name is Robert Trumper and I founded EcoServants with my longtime friend, Mr. Jason Joslyn, after both of us overcame immense challenges that shaped our strength, our resolve and our commitment to making a difference. As we approach 2026, in the midst of escalating environmental challenges, our mission has never been more urgent. What began as a simple local cleanup in San Diego has grown into a global movement—uniting communities, inspiring action and building lasting change for the Earth we all share. Read More>> 

Michele Davenport

What makes me lose track of time and find myself again is hopping into my Jeep, listening to praise music as loud as possible with the top off my Jeep and windows down. Read More>>

Kara Smith

Integrity, hands down.

In a world that moves fast and rewards loud voices, integrity is what keeps you grounded. Intelligence can open doors, and energy can move things forward but without integrity, none of it lasts. As a fifth-generation rancher and business owner, everything I do, whether it’s raising cattle, building a brand, or raising my daughters is rooted in trust. That means doing what you say you’re going to do, even when no one’s watching. Read More>>

Garrett Peters & Stephanie Peters

Garrett here. A normal day looks like a mix of work time and spending time with our sons. I always start my day in the sauna. That has become a place to think, read, relax as I am starting my day.

From there I either go to the office or work from home during the morning. That is the bulk of my “work day” if you will. Read More>>

Ashton Koontz

Energy is everything to me. It’s what fuels my passion, my purpose, and my ability to create. As a creative, energy isn’t just about momentum—it’s about alignment. When my energy is right, I feel grounded, inspired, and fully present in my work. It allows me to tap into my most authentic self, to create from a space that’s honest and intentional. Whether I’m behind the camera, styling a look, or building something new, I lead with energy first. It shapes the environments I walk into, the people I connect with, and the art I bring to life. Protecting and nurturing that energy has become one of the most important parts of my process. Read More>>

 X.DARVI

I’m chasing my dream of being an established artist and not just known, but respected, deeply rooted in my craft, and free to create without limits. Funny enough, sometimes I wonder if the very act of chasing is what slows me down. Like, maybe if I stopped gripping so tightly to the outcome, it might all come together faster. I create because I love it, not because I’m trying to force anything. So if I stopped chasing, I think it would actually bring me closer to what I want…peace, flow, and maybe even faster alignment with the success I’m working toward. Read More>>

Brit Scott

I feel thay when I’m painting i lose track of time. Painting really takes me into another dominion and world. It makes me feel whole and a better version of myself each time I grab a canvas and paint brush. It allows me to paint the things that I want to say. Read More>>