"We’ve all had moments where we hesitated because something didn’t feel right, but for whatever reason we ignored it. Any time you have that feeling, step back and listen. Don’t make any decision until you’ve had a conversation with someone who knows you really well…" — Nell Merlino
Chief Creative Officer, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP
A: I think staying in business during a recession requires a certain level of risk. When the business is soft, having the passion to keep going instead of giving up… when everyone around you is closing down…and you’re hanging in there. I hope to be in business for the next 100 years. READ MORE »
Founder & President, NY Creative Interns
A: I surround myself with extremely supportive people who don't let me dwell on setbacks and encourage me to focus on opportunities. READ MORE »
Founder & President, She's the First
A: Some would consider my decision to go freelance in my career a risk, but I think it’s exhilarating – I’ve put myself in a position to go in so many different directions across multiple industries, as opposed to climbing up a vertical ladder in one sector. I still work 40 hours a week, but I gave up some corporate perks ... READ MORE »
Founder & President, Count Me In for Women's Economic Independence
A: Honestly, I just ask myself, “What’s the worst that can happen?” Once I face that possibility and the consequences that go with it, some of that fear subsides because I know I can handle it. I think it’s also important to trust your gut. If you don’t have confidence and respect for yourself and your own judgment, you’re less likely to ... READ MORE »
Founder & CEO, Kahina Giving Beauty
A: I have always been quite insecure when meeting new people, but have never had a problem taking large risks, such as starting a business. My position now requires lots of meeting people all over the world and speaking. I have gotten much better at it now, but before I go into an important meeting or give a speech, I always ... READ MORE »
Co-Founder/Designer, The Novogratz
A: My husband and I deciding to become designers and work for ourselves was scary at first, but we knew that if we failed, we failed together, and if we succeeded, we succeeded together. We wondered if people would hire us and how we would pay our bills. It’s been an incredibly rewarding risk. We always dreamt of designing our own ... READ MORE »