Ignoring the Naysayers

Almost everything that’s changed the world in a positive way has been an unreasonable idea. It’s unreasonable, until it’s commons sense. That’s how change happens and so in order to make a difference in the world, it’s incredibly important to be able to ignore the naysayers. Some of the best and brightest from our community share their stories and advice below.

Persephone Carrillo

Choosing a career in performance means choosing visibility, discipline, and constant reinvention. In an industry built on auditions and public opinion, I learned early that doubt will always exist—but so will opportunity. Instead of letting criticism define me, I use it as direction. Each audition, rehearsal, and contract sharpens my craft and strengthens my confidence. Read More>>

Michelle Malekan

I grew up on Long Island, New York, which can feel like a very contained ecosystem. In environments like that, visibility is constant, people know who you are, comparisons are inevitable, and success is often measured through a narrow lens. Even when you’re doing well, there’s an undercurrent of judgment and commentary that can be hard to ignore. Read More>>

Lily Kline

Oftentimes when I’m met with resistance, whether it’s systemic or personal, it’s generally an opportunity to reflect on my goals, self worth, values, and so on. I find this empowering and it provides an enduring momentum to run against the current. Read More>>

Claudia Morales

I absolutely love this question because it is something that we have all experienced at one point or another. Whether it is in a work setting or coming from immediate family, we have all encountered people who think you can’t do it or that believe you don’t even deserve to do it . Read More>>

Annette Mata on Embracing Fiction, Owning the Process, and Writing from a Place of Truth

After being encouraged by those close to her, Annette Mata took a bold step into

Dr. Sabrina D. Wooten on Bridging the Gap Between Vision and Execution for Entrepreneurs

Dr. Sabrina D. Wooten created the Strategic Impact Virtual Boot Camp to address a common

Quynn Red Mountain on Bringing 25 Years of Spiritual Guidance Online Through Sound, Accessibility, and Inner Connection

After decades of guiding people through in-person circles and workshops, Quynn Red Mountain’s move into