Who taught you the most about work?

Society has its myths about where we learn – internships, books, school, etc. However, in our conversations with some of the most interesting and trailblazing entrepreneurs and creatives we noticed the biggest lessons they learned about work often came from unexpected sources. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Fernando Alves

It’s hard for me to name just one person who taught me the most about work because I’ve learned valuable lessons from many different experiences and people along the way. I’ve had a very diverse background, and each stage of my life shaped my understanding of professionalism and discipline. Read more>>

Brock Crockom

Myself, of course! It seems in life that a lot of people are going to tell you what to do, as well as when and how to work. However, only you can express how that makes you feel. Do you find joy in physical labor, and want to be strong? Do you like to make others happy, or do you just work to make money? Read more>>

steeven petitteville

I think the directors I’ve been working with are the ones that taught me the most. As a director of photography, you are constantly looking for what they have in mind, understanding their tastes, and trying as much as possible to ‘read their mind.’ That teaches a lot about how specific and unique each of us is. And it is where the challenge happens. Read more>>

Anastasia Filonenko

The vertical stories we create today are a fascinating hybrid form — not something that can be instantly understood or categorized. They combine IT-driven data insights, storytelling craft, and performance marketing. Read more>>

Loy Lee

As a Boston guy, I hated Kobe Bryant. It wasn’t until after he retired and really after he passed, did I start to look at his interviews and listen to what he talked about in regards to working. He worked out and was obsessed with the working out, the training, the drills. I never understood practice. Read more>>

Audunn Luthersson

My dad. He always told me to do everything 100% and I’m eternally grateful for his guidance. Read more>>

Mardilan Lee Georgio

My ballet instructor, Sheila Rozanne, fostered a strong sense of discipline in all of her dancers. We were required to work hard and strive for excellence. Her studio created professional dancers that joined companies such as the New York City Ballet. Read more>>

Thomas Sahagun

There are three huge impacts in my life and at the top of that list is my dad. Growing up my dad was my biggest influence when it came to understanding the value of hard work. He instilled the importance of dedication, commitment, and doing things the right way, no matter what. Read more>>

Karina Arrezola-Reyes

My parents! Both of my parents have worked so hard & to this day, they still do. I recall my parents leaving early morning, 6:30 am to catch the bus, head to work & come back home till 6 pm/7 pm. Saturday was the only day they got out early. Read more>>

Ayumi Shibata

I truly believe that the companies I worked for in Japan gave me the most essential foundation for how I work today. Through Japan’s distinctive sense of practicality, the ability to be considerate and anticipate others’ needs, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep respect for craftsmanship and creativity, I gained invaluable experiences that shaped who I am now. Read more>>