We connected with some of the most resilient folks in the community and one of the most insightful questions we had an opportunity to ask centered around whether there was ever a time they almost gave up. Highlighting some of the responses below.
Madison Kirksey
It’s taken me years to be able to even talk about this, but I tried to tap out of this life at 23. I was a victim of sexual assault during my military service, and this event sent me on a years-long spiral of pain and self-destruction. Read more>>
Ariana Bina
There have certainly been moments in which I wanted to give up. In my years as a professional musician, I reached the point of burnout after 5 years of non-stop teaching, gigging, and rehearsing. Then, when covid hit, I became essentially unemployed as schools shut down and public performances were forbidden. Read more>>
Knives Monroe
A few times I year I consider hanging it up. Truth is I don’t know how to quit. This creative economy game is a last man standing match. Sometimes its just about handcuffing yourself to the boat and riding into the storm. I’m still here and I’ve made it out alive so must account for something. Read more>>
Nilesh Chhabria
Yes — there were moments I almost gave up. And I’m going to answer that honestly, as a leader who has had to carry P&L, run operations, build a brand, and protect people’s livelihoods. Read more>>
Spencer Welch
Yes. Actually, I still struggle with this. The life of an artist is difficult. Read more>>
