We all start somewhere. And for many successful business leaders, it was a few words of advice early in their careers that stuck with them and helped shape their decisions, values, and leadership style. Whether it came from a mentor, a family member, or hard-earned experience, the guidance they received in those early days still plays a major role in how they work and lead today. These aren’t just motivational quotes—they’re real-world strategies that have stood the test of time.
Here’s what 14 influential leaders had to say about the career advice that still makes a difference in how they work and live.
CareerAdviceThatStandstheTestofTime
Appear Confident, Even If You’re Still Learning
Ashley Deese remembers someone once telling her to “show up like you belong, even if you’re still figuring it out.” That mentality — of appearing confident while embracing a learning mindset — helped her bridge knowledge gaps, take initiative, and grow into leadership roles she once found intimidating.
When It Gets Tough, Keep Moving
Zena Harris offers a raw and honest mantra that has carried her through difficult times in the entertainment industry: “People will doubt you. Keep going anyway.” She shortened that mindset into one acronym: FIPO — a personal reminder to stay on course despite setbacks.
Design Your Life With the Future in Mind
Angelique Kuiper reflects on a piece of advice that’s both simple and powerful: “Live today in a way your future self will thank you for.” She often thinks about what her 80-year-old self would want — and uses that lens to make better choices in the present.
AdviceYouCanUseToday
Stick to the Message
Brian Framson believes the most powerful communication is clear and focused. “You can’t expect people to remember everything, so give them three key takeaways and make them count.” He uses this approach in both internal team meetings and public presentations.
Go With Your Gut Early On
Jessica Billingsley says the advice that still rings true is about trusting her instincts. She doesn’t wait for things to fall apart if something feels off at the beginning — whether it’s a business deal or a new hire. She listens to that first impression and acts fast. It’s saved her more than once.
Stay Curious, Admit What You Don’t Know
“Don’t pretend to know it all. Ask the questions no one else is asking,” says Mark Paulda. That early advice helped him stay innovative and always learning in his career as a media creator. He believes curiosity is what keeps him relevant in a constantly evolving industry.
AdviceThatBuildsStrongerTeamsandBrands
Always Be Learning
Josiah Corbin makes it a point never to be the most knowledgeable person in the room. Instead, he surrounds himself with experts, stays updated on tech trends, and leans into the growth mindset. He says the best teams come from people who never stop learning.
Be Yourself, No Matter What
Karina Michel Feld shares her mother’s timeless advice: “Be true to who you are.” In an industry driven by image, authenticity is the only way to build something meaningful, and it’s helped her stand out in film, branding, and beyond.
Keep Showing Up
Persistence has fueled Shaun Fabos’s creative journey. “Talent is great, but showing up, again and again, is what gets things done.” He leans on that mindset during challenges, and it’s helped him stay consistent in an unpredictable industry.
ShapingBigIdeasWithEvenBiggerPurpose
Think Big — Then Go Bigger
Victoria Bousis took inspiration from a famous Steve Jobs quote and ran with it: “The ones who believe they can change the world are usually the ones who do.” That belief gave her the courage to take creative risks, especially in spaces where her voice wasn’t always welcomed.
Let Your Audience Shape the Outcome
Michael Kennedy learned not to over-engineer ideas. His mentor once told him: “Build the concept most of the way, and let your customers show you the rest.” Today, that mindset helps him lead with curiosity and openness, even in a highly competitive market.
Know Who You’re Talking To
Kristin Marquet says she used to chase every opportunity — until she realized that wasn’t sustainable. Now, she focuses only on the right clients and the right message. “Trying to be everything to everyone means you’ll end up meaning nothing to anyone.”
FinalWordsThatKeeptheDriveAlive
Show You Care
Jed Brewer puts people first. “Before people care about what you know, they want to know that you care.” That advice taught him that empathy creates trust, and trust leads to real, lasting impact.
Keep Going, Even When It’s Hard
Matt Altman heard the same piece of advice from three different people in one season: “Keep going.” Years later, that phrase still fuels his leadership and reminds him why resilience matters — especially in business.
Each of these leaders took early advice and made it their own. Their stories show that the right words, when taken seriously, can guide a lifetime of decisions, inspire growth, and fuel success. Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career, a little wisdom can go a long way.
