Sam Baker wrote his first book at age 95. Now, at 102, the WWII veteran is an award-winning author. According to Baker, his longevity of life comes from his willpower to keep reinventing himself.

Baker is no stranger to hard work. Over the course of his life, he’s seen, heard and done a great deal. After earning an engineering degree, serving in the Marine Corps, and working for three decades as the world’s first GPS salesman with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Baker decided that in his retirement he wanted to do more than just sit around and play bridge. 

At 95, he got his first computer and sat down to write a children’s book. At the urging of his daughter and son, he decided to get the book published and printed—thus making him an author.

After the first book, Baker knew he could do more. He went on to write four more books. One book was inspired by one of Baker’s real-life relationships, a late-in-life friendship formed with a fellow veteran turned veterinarian. Baker used his friendship and the legacy of his late friend to develop a series of books in which a mouse overcomes challenges and sees success in his own way. 

Here is a snippet of mine and Baker’s conversation:

Maleeka Hollaway: Tell me, who was Sam Baker before he started writing books? 

Sam Baker: Well, he was a grandfather. He was a member of the community and he was enjoying life with his lovely wife. And as I’ve said before, I was pretty level until I read the reading reports that were published by the Arizona Republic of all the schools in Arizona… It was miserable. Some of the students in ninth grade were failing reading. Well, reading is the foundation of this building we call education. If you can’t read, how do you progress? 

MH: Reading those reports, is that what prompted you to start writing children’s books? 

SB: Yes. I said to myself, if something’s got to be done, can I give my little bit? I had a charming childhood. My mother let me do everything I wanted to do, but she never knew what I did otherwise. I don’t know how she would’ve put up with it. My father was a farmer…And so I created a book, The [Silly] Adventures of Petunia and Herman the Worm.

MH: You’ve had a pretty decorated life. You have had a few careers. And so what would you say, Sam, out of everything that you’ve done, [what] do you feel like you are most proud of having completed? 

SB: Well, it may surprise you. My greatest pride is that when I was director of the National Genetic Survey…when I left their organization, 45% of my professionals had advanced degrees. I think that’s one of my greatest accomplishments because these people now knew and could converse with the experts. I was so proud of the fact that I had that many people taking advanced degrees and increasing their knowledge of the subject matter we were trying to do. 

MH: What’s been the most rewarding thing about writing the books? 

SB: The thank yous that you get from the children and the unexpected ways of saying and giving thanks to you. How do you rate a thank you when it’s a hug around the neck from a four-year-old? It just melts your heart.

MH: What is one piece of advice you would give someone who wants to reinvent themselves like you did? 

SB: If you start, don’t give up. It becomes easier as you go along. [If] they’ve got all the education they want, great. If not, education is the key to it all. To everything you want to do. Education is the key.

MH: And how many more books do you think you’ll write? 

Sam Baker: One more. It’s called Prince. I’ve got three chapters already read…all of it is up in my head, and I’ve typed those three chapters.

MH: What’s the secret to living a long, successful life? 

SB: I have no idea what is the secret to long life. Colon cancer has taken the lives of so many in my family that I have devoted ample time to its prevention. I think that a happy and successful marriage has played its part, and perhaps giving love, not hate, has added years.

Photo courtesy of Ruby Rideout.

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It’s conventional to see the new year as the time to set new goals and intentions, but don’t overlook the dawning of a new month. The next time you flip the page on your wall calendar, remember to be courageous and bold. Now is the time to start believing in yourself and the successes you can achieve. 

Get the best possible start with this list of 60 new month quotes to get you in gear for making the most of the next 30 days.

Happy New Month Quotes And Wishes

It’s a new month; let’s make it a joyful one! Did the last four weeks leave you exhausted and somber? Read these happy new month wishes and quotes. They’re perfect for creating a positive mindset so you can think about the possibilities instead of any gloomy limitations. 

• “Let this new month bring you more opportunities, success, joy, gladness, laughter & fun than ever before.” ―Rajesh Goyal 

• “Life changes very quickly, in a very positive way, if you let it.” ―Lindsey Vonn

• “You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind.” ―Hillary DePiano 

• “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have. Make the now the primary focus of your life.” ―Eckhart Tolle

• “Nothing in the universe can stop you from letting go and starting over.” ―Guy Finley 

• “One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats.” ―Iris Murdoch

• “You must believe, and then you’ll see it unfolding right before your eyes.” ―Wayne Dyer 

• “Nothing is more important than reconnecting with your bliss.” ―Deepak Chopra 

• “Change is ours, if we want it.” ―Karen Casey 

• “My life is bigger than I am.’ Remind yourself of this statement.” ―Wayne Dyer 

• “Your past does not equal your future.” ―Tony Robbins 

• “I know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I’ll go to it laughing.” ―Herman Melville 

Related: 100 Uplifting Quotes About New Beginnings

New Month, New Goals Quotes 

The beginning of a new month is the perfect time to set new goals. Think about what you’d most like to accomplish and any longer-term projects on which you can make strides over the next four weeks. Setting goals at the beginning of the month helps to make you more focused, setting you up for success. Take a look at these new month, new goals quotes. 

• “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” ―Eleanor Roosevelt 

• “Make at least one definite move daily toward your goal.” ―Bruce Lee

• “Goals are dreams with deadlines.” ―Diana Scharf Hunt

• “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” ―Tony Robbins

• “The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self.” ―Dalai Lama 

• “I believe in goals. It’s never a bad thing to have a dream. If something is really what you want to do, just do it. Whatever your goal.” ―Richard Branson 

• “We aim above the mark, to hit the mark.” ―Ralph Waldo Emerson 

• “Success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal.” ―Earl Nightingale  
• “Success is goals, and all else is commentary.” ―Brian Tracy 

• “Dad said it best: ‘A goal properly set is halfway reached.” ―Tom Ziglar 

• “Your goal is to eliminate any distance between what you desire and that from which you pull it into your life.” ―Wayne Dyer 

• “Identify your problems, but give your power and energy to solutions.” ―Tony Robbins 

Related: 15 Inspiring Quotes to Help You Find Joy

New Month Motivational Sayings For Work And Life 

Staying motivated is always one of the biggest challenges, especially when the new month dawns. Don’t get flustered and overwhelmed about how much you have to do. Instead, hone your focus on strengthening your sense of perseverance. These new month motivational quotes for work and life will help maintain your momentum. 

• “The future of life as we know it is being determined by everything we’re doing—and not doing. Now.” ―Oprah Winfrey 

• “Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” ―Lolly Daskal

• “You can’t make yourself feel positive, but you can choose how to act, and if you choose right, it builds your confidence.” ―Julien Smith 

• “Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.” ―Norman Vincent Peale
  
• “You will enrich your life immeasurably if you approach it with a sense of wonder and discovery, and always challenge yourself to try new things.” ―Nate Berkus

• “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” ―Franklin D. Roosevelt 

• “You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible.” ―Deepak Chopra 

• “No matter how far away from yourself you may have strayed, there is always a path back. You already know who you are and how to fulfill your destiny. And your ruby slippers are ready to carry you home.” ―Oprah Winfrey 

• “Motivation will almost always beat mere talent.” ―Norman Ralph Augustine 

• “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground.” ―Theodore Roosevelt 

• “You may have thought that nothing ever goes right for you. It’s time to put all that negative stuff in a box, as it’s in the past. Now it’s time to look to the future with a lighter heart.” ―Angela Donovan 

• “To me, ultimate power is the ability to produce the results you desire most and create value for others in the process.” ―Tony Robbins 

 Related: 40 Action Quotes to Help You Take Initiative and Inspire Your Next Move

Short New Month Inspirational Quotes

Sometimes the first few days are the busiest of the month. You’re reflecting, planning and getting all your ducks in a row to come out on top. During this busy time, take a few moments to read these short new month inspirational quotes for a quick pick-me-up. 

• “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” ―Lao Tzu

• “The beginning is the most important part of any work.” ―Plato 

• “It is never too late. It’s never too late to start over, never too late to be happy.” ―Jane Fonda

• “Celebrate endings for they precede new beginnings.” ―Jonathan Lockwood Huie 

• “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” ―Oscar Wilde 

• “Without leaps of imagination or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.” ―Gloria Steinem 

• “’Hope’ is the thing with feathers-/ that perches in the soul.” ―Emily Dickinson 

• “It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.” ―Paulo Coelho 

• “The answers keep unfolding as your life expands, if you’re willing to see things for what they are―and what they can be.” ―Oprah Winfrey

• “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” ―Ruth Bader Ginsburg 
• “Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own.” ―Michelle Obama 

• “Forever is composed of nows.” ―Emily Dickinson 

Quotes And Sayings For The Beginning Of A New Month 

As the new month approaches, read these quotes and sayings for the beginning of this exciting period in your life. Develop a positive mindset and embrace new horizons. These quotes and sayings for new beginnings help you create the right perspective. 

• “The morning was full of sunlight and hope.” ―Kate Chopin 

• “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” ―Ralph Waldo Emerson

• “We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.” ―Nelson Mandela 

• “There is a morning inside you waiting to burst open into light.” ―Rumi

• “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” ―Eleanor Roosevelt 

• “Never feel guilty for starting again.” ―Rupi Kaur

• “It always seems impossible, until it is done.” ―Nelson Mandela 

• “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” ―Maya Angelou 

• “Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.” ―Germany Kent 

• “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” ―Martin Luther King, Jr. 

• “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.” ―Dolly Parton 

• “We can’t control events. We can’t control people. But we can control what life means to us.” ―Tony Robbins 

Get Excited For The Month Ahead  

Sometimes we just need the right wise words to create a transformational state of mind for the best new beginning. No matter what challenges appear in the next four weeks, these 60 quotes will help keep you feeling happy, inspired and motivated. Reflect on what you want to achieve and set the right goals to get you to the finish line.

Photo by fizkes/shutterstock.com

The post 60 New Month Quotes to Inspire Motivation All Month Long appeared first on SUCCESS.

As I grew older, life took an unexpected turn when, at 17, I ended up homeless in a shelter. I dropped out of high school, got three fast-food jobs and focused on survival. Work was my lifeline at that stage—my escape from reality and the only way to create a better life. 

I eventually left the homeless shelter and got my apartment. At one of the jobs, I met the woman who would become my wife, and we got married the day after I turned 18.

My work history continued with jobs in retail and getting my CDL at 18. With each new job, my salary was higher, and I felt more accomplished. It felt good to support my wife and my first child at age 19. 

Whenever I met someone new, they’d ask, “What do you do?” I was happy to tell them about my job and my high salary as a 19-year-old. Without knowing it, I was tying my identity and measure of success to my work. 

This pattern and mindset of work being my everything would continue to build over 20 years. It wasn’t until my children started entering the workforce that I realized my identity was ingrained in my work. My Gen Z children taught me lessons about work that my generation didn’t, and it has changed me. Here’s how.

Growing up in an immigrant household meant a focus on work

My mother is an African woman from Mombasa, Kenya, and my stepfather is from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I’m a first-generation African American who grew up with two parents who often talked about the struggles our family faced trying to make a living in Africa.

My mother would tell us that a good job was the key to a successful life. The importance of work was cemented in my mindset. As an adult, I felt so proud to be able to name-drop well-known companies like Pepsi or QuadGraphics when telling others about my work.

At 19, I had the opportunity to start my first business, a vacation-relief service for independent bread vendors. The company cost $100 to start, had low expenses and quickly grew into a highly profitable business. My family was proud.

My identity and how I saw success was deepened toward my work. When my business revenue increased, I was the happiest person you’d ever met; when sales were slow—I felt like a loser.

I learned there’s more to life than work

When my Gen Z children started working, I would ask them about their jobs. I was often surprised at how they viewed work and what their jobs meant to them. I have five Gen Z children who work traditional jobs, and our oldest owns a business. 

My Gen Z children see their jobs as a way to earn money to live and do things outside of work. They work to live—not live to work.

They don’t buy into the belief that you work hard for most of your adult life to enjoy the last few years. They told me they use their sick days and other company benefits, such as vacation time, mental health days and discounts offered for employees on merchandise and stays (one works at a hotel). They don’t see this as being a bad or uncommitted employee.

Much commentary is offered about Gen Z. What I see missing from this conversation is that Gen Z is the first generation that doesn’t tie their identity to their work, and to see there’s more to life than work. 

“(Gen Z’s) attitude is slightly different because they come in without all the baggage that other generations have carried. (Gen Z) cares more about their life balance than other generations have, and they’re not willing to sacrifice their time like other generations have,” says Melanie K. Hall, a licensed clinical professional counselor, therapist and coach.

Tying your identity to work can be unhealthy

I can’t tell you how often someone has told me they feel Gen Z is lazy and doesn’t care about their jobs like previous generations have. However, many previous generations aren’t aware how unhealthy it can be to tie your identity to your work.

Charese L. Josie, a licensed clinical therapist and leadership development trainer who’s worked with different generations in the workforce, says we don’t realize that work has an end date—there’s an achievement wall. 

“When we get to that job that we long for, even if we get a promotion, there’s an end date. We have now achieved that goal. And then what we’re not taught is, then, who are we now once that end date has [been] achieved?… We have no idea what’s next for us and who we are, and what’s the next thing for us to grab onto,” says Josie. 

I’m 44 years old, and that’s not what my immigrant parents taught me about work growing up. These conversations with my Gen Z children made me realize how much of my identity I had attached to my work.

When I noticed how work was affecting my mindset, I knew I needed help. I decided to get therapy. I’ve had therapy regularly over the past six years, and it’s helped me see that success, growth and who I am are more than what I do for work. 

“I not only think it’s unhealthy, I think it’s dangerous to tie our identity to work because work is ever evolving,” says Josie. 

Creating a work-optional life is my goal now

My Gen Z children in the workforce helped me understand lessons about life and work that my generation didn’t. I’ve seen them work and earn money to travel, take time off, not work as much as possible, and fund their retirement accounts in earnest so they may retire early and create a life where work becomes optional. Work isn’t the first or main thing they discuss when meeting someone new; it’s how they enjoy life. I’ve seen two of my kids quit jobs that didn’t align with their values and take less pay for jobs that do. I’ve seen them ignore work communication outside of working hours and watched them stick to the strong boundaries they’ve set for their work parameters.

Their outlook, along with therapy, changed my mindset and helped me detach work from being a major part of my identity.

My goal is to spend my working time only on things that contribute to my personal and professional development, and to use my businesses to build financial independence. I’m taking what I earn and investing as much as possible into assets that make my money work for me. 

I aim to create a work-optional life that allows me to spend my time, attention and energy living a life of freedom where I don’t have to work if I don’t want to. I used to work seven days a week, but now I take off every weekend. I don’t answer client correspondence outside of normal business hours, and I don’t take meetings anymore. 

My wife and I get massages, enjoy fancy meals and spend hours in our favorite place, bookstores, every weekend. I spend more time on my personal development, reading books, watching YouTube videos and listening to fiction audiobooks. I’ve set a goal to take more vacation time than work days, and I understand now that how I achieve success is much broader in scope than what I do for work.

Photo from Kimanzi Constable

The post I Have 5 Gen Z Children in the Workforce. They Taught Me Not to Make Work My Identity appeared first on SUCCESS.

Eventbrite eyes a comeback with new features and Gen Z focus

Eventbrite has quite a point to prove right now. After reporting a net loss of $15.6 million in its 2024 annual earnings and continued sales declines, the company is working to turn things around with a refreshed image aimed at attracting a younger, event-focused audience. Eventbrite made the challenging decision to lay off 11% of its staff last year and has since focused on a major rebuilding initiative in recent months. With the season of renewal approaching, the company is now unveiling a suite of new features designed to breathe new life into its service. 

First off, Eventbrite has rolled out the “discover” tab, offering users a fresh approach to personalized event recommendations based on past bookings, preferences and reviews. This new feature also introduces “It-Lists”: insider guides for over 22 markets, offering event-goers a sneak peek into the best-kept secrets of cities’ entertainment scenes. Curated by “local tastemakers,” these lists feature everything from late-night operas to off-the-beaten-path art walks. 

Younger generations are turning away from traditional entertainment hubs like movie theaters, malls and concert arenas, in favor of public spaces, nature and more intimate social gatherings. These new features are designed to support that cultural shift, making it easier to discover and organize unique real-world experiences that cost less and offer more. 

Exploring subcultures: How Eventbrite is supporting the rise of ‘Fourth Spaces’

With a clear focus on Gen Z and younger demographics, Eventbrite’s strategy leaves little to the imagination. This change in direction was informed by an internal January report, which highlighted the growing trend of “Fourth Spaces”—social gatherings that bring together online communities and interests in real-world settings. The study found that 95% of young adults are eager to explore their online interests through in-person events, while 79% prefer events that combine multiple passions. Eventbrite dubs this an “experience renaissance” where new-age subcultures are carving out distinct spaces for personal development and entertainment in young adults. 

After publishing that research in January, Eventbrite now seems to be pivoting to focus entirely on the next generation. The redesigned app now places social connections at the forefront, enabling users to follow event-goers with similar interests, track the events they’re attending and plan together with shared saves. The service now feels more like a social media app than your traditional ticketing platform. 

“We’ve reimagined our app to become a destination where culture and community naturally come together, helping people turn their passions into incredible experiences that bring them closer,” CEO Julia Hartz said in a press release this week, highlighting how Eventbrite’s evolution into a two-sided marketplace is the logical next growth push. 

Use Eventbrite’s new ad tools to make your pitch one-of-a-kind

Eventbrite Ads, launched in 2022, quickly became a game-changing tool for event hosts, offering them visibility similar to Spotify’s Discovery Mode. With a highly engaged audience on the Eventbrite platform, the launch made it easier than ever to sell and promote events. When supported by ads, events can reach hundreds of people almost instantly. As Eventbrite continues to create new ways to amplify events, you can now target specific locations, define campaign objectives and track every engagement in detail.

According to the app, ad-supported events can boost reach by 14x and yield 30% higher click-through rates compared to Facebook Ads or other similar platforms. Eventbrite users aren’t just casual browsers—they’re actively looking to get involved and make plans, so every post you invest in is sure to attract attention. The process is simple: define your budget and schedule, and Eventbrite will ensure your ad reaches people within a 50-mile radius who are actively searching for similar events. Equipped with multiple tools, the app helps perfect event pitches with options for tailored titles, messaging and creatives.

Along with these refreshes comes an enhanced way to book and view events too. With improved access to check-in times, parking details, FAQs and ticket procedures, the process is more streamlined than ever so that when you arrive for the event, your experience is as stress-free as possible.

Eventbrite’s focus on social connection is a crucial investment, providing both event planners and attendees with new opportunities for exploration and entertainment. With an added emphasis on user preferences and accessibility, it’s a smart move at a time when growth is critical. After a challenging financial period, Eventbrite hopes this revitalized approach to real-world connection will reinvigorate the platform as the go-to spot to discover events and experiences.

Photo from investor.eventbrite.com

The post Eventbrite Launches Bold Rebrand to Appeal to the Gen Z Market appeared first on SUCCESS.

1. Consider changing your entity status

There are a lot of options for how your company files its tax return, and it may impact the amount of tax you pay. One common entity formation is the single-member LLC, says Daniel Kochka, CPA and managing principal at Integrated Accounting Solutions, LLC. “It’s easy to set up, it’s cost-effective, and it separates your business from your personal life.” Filing as a single-member LLC, unlike filing as a sole proprietor, means your personal assets may be protected from business debts and lawsuits. Additionally, by setting up a business EIN (employer identification number), you don’t have to share your Social Security number each time you onboard as a new client.  

But an LLC can alternatively be filed as an S corporation, which gives you the same legal separation with the benefit of not having to pay self-employment tax. “As long as you’re paying yourself reasonable compensation based on market research, the distributions you take from the S Corp help you avoid self-employment tax,” says Kochka. “However, owners must follow payroll tax rules, including reasonable compensation, and salaries must be at fair market value to avoid IRS scrutiny.”

2. Review your accounting system

During the year, when you’re trying to keep your business moving along, it’s easy to get sloppy with your books, but messy books lead to missed tax-saving opportunities. Payments for subscriptions to trade journals or money spent on a new computer, headphones or office supplies ordered online may get lost if not accounted for properly. 

In addition to reviewing your books at least monthly to make sure they’re in good order, applying for a business credit card may make it easier to keep qualifying business expenses separate. “If you have an expense that’s part business and part personal, paying for it through a business account will ensure it’s recorded and doesn’t get missed even if you end up not deducting the full amount in the end,” says Rachel Richards, CPA and head of tax products at Gelt.

3. Set aside what you can for retirement

There are a variety of retirement options for small business owners to invest in, such as a solo 401k, SEP IRA or a SIMPLE IRA. “[These options are] a great way to, one, reduce your tax liability and, two, start to put money away, which is usually forgotten about as a small business owner,” says Kochka.

If you are in a loss this year or in a lower tax bracket (so tax liability is not a big concern) but you still have money you want to set aside for retirement, a Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) may be a better option. The money in a Roth account is not currently tax deductible, but the growth will be tax-free, and so will the amount you take out in retirement. 

4. Keep up with quarterly payments

The safe harbor requirement, or the amount you should be paying each quarter to the IRS, is typically 90% of the current year’s tax liability or 100% of the prior year’s tax liability (110% if the prior-year income was over $150,000), whichever is smaller. “What a lot of people don’t see on the tax return, because it’s buried on the bottom, is there [are] penalties involved for not making proper estimates,” says Kochka. 

The end of the year is a good time to see if you met that requirement each quarter and make plans for the following year. Keep in mind that if a spouse has payroll withholding, those amounts can help meet safe harbor requirements when filing jointly.

5. Look for additional tax deductions or credits

Small businesses may qualify for additional tax deductions or credits. For example, business owners may be eligible for the qualified business income deduction (QBI), which allows them an additional deduction of up to 20% of their qualified business income. 

The Augusta Rule is another way to reduce taxes by increasing your business expenses. “If you’re hosting a legitimate business meeting or a company retreat, you can rent your home to your business instead of paying an outside venue,” says Richards. If your home is rented for less than 14 days a year, not used as your primary place of business, and you comply with several other rules, you can potentially exclude that rental income from your personal return while deducting the rent payment on your business return.

Additionally, some businesses may qualify for a credit for research activities, for example, if your business is working on developing new techniques or improving existing processes, explains Richards. You don’t have to be a scientist to qualify; the key is in creating technological innovation or process improvements.

At the end of the day, there are numerous variables to consider when you file your tax return. Proactive tax planning helps create a system that minimizes surprises and maximizes savings so your business can thrive.

Photo by Dragana Gordic/Shutterstock

The post 5 Great Tax Tips for Small to Mid-Sized Businesses appeared first on SUCCESS.

Success isn’t limited to one specific era, and there are plenty of opportunities to be inspired by the wisdom of these great minds’ great quotes. After all, we can all live victorious lives, finding our passions and discovering what success means to us.

Get inspired by these 40 famous success quotes from great minds. Their powerful words might be just what you need to get started on your own journey of growth and success. Take the insight of some of the brightest minds of all time and make it your own.

Quotes About Success From The World’s Greatest Minds

Great minds have used their knowledge to achieve goals and break barriers to succeed in life. Find inspiration in these quotes about how to succeed from some of history’s greatest minds. After all, famous phrases about success can go a long way to inspire our own excellence.

• “Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.” —Dale Carnegie
• “Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of virtue.” —Albert Einstein
• “I have learned that success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.”—Booker T. Washington
• “Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.” —Truman Capote
• “The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do, well.” —Henry W. Longfellow 
• “I don’t measure a man’s success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom.” —Gen. George S. Patton
• “Success is a science; if you have the conditions, you get the result.” —Oscar Wilde
• “Action is the foundational key to all success.” —Pablo Picasso
• “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” —Thomas A. Edison
• “Always bear in mind that your own resolution to success is more important than any other one thing.”—Abraham Lincoln
• “The secret of success is to do the common thing uncommonly well.” —John D. Rockefeller Jr.
• “All successful men have agreed in one thing—they were causationists. They believed that things went not by luck, but by law; that there was not a weak or a cracked link in the chain that joins the first and last of things.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

Related: Powerful Quotes From Successful Entrepreneurs 

Thought-Provoking Quotes About Great Minds 

“Great minds think alike,” at least according to 17th-century playwright Dabridgcourt Belchier. But is it true? Here are some great minds’ quotes that may prove he was accurate—or not. 

• “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” —William Shakespeare

• “Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune, but great minds rise above them.” —Washington Irving
• “Every now and then a man’s mind is stretched by a new idea or sensation, and never shrinks back to its former dimensions.” —Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
• “A simple and independent mind does not toil at the bidding of any prince. Genius is not a retainer to any emperor.” —Henry David Thoreau
• “A genius is often merely a talented person who has done all of his or her homework.” —Thomas Edison
• “To make the common marvellous, as if it were a revelation, is the test of genius.” —James Russell Lowell
• “The tough mind is sharp and penetrating. It breaks through the crust of legends and myths, and sifts the true from the false.” —Martin Luther King Jr.
• “You only get one mind and one body, and it’s got to last a lifetime.” —Warren Buffett

Related: 10 Inspiring Quotes On Innovation

What Great Minds Discuss: Motivational Sayings to Expand Your View

What can you do with a great mind? How does the genius of a great mind work? Do great minds discuss ideas, people, things or events? Throughout the ages, many people have had ideas about how to motivate a great mind and why it’s important to push boundaries. Read these quotes and decide for yourself. 

• “Those who believe they can achieve the object of their definite chief aim do not recognize the word impossible.” —Napoleon Hill 
• “Times of general calamity and confusion, have ever been productive of  for the greatest minds.” —Charles Caleb Colton 
• “If the people really set their minds on anything, it is impossible to prevent their getting what they want.” —Henry Ford

• “Small minds discuss other people, gossip. Good minds discuss events. Great minds discuss ideas.” —Denzel Washington
• “Dedicate yourself to the good you deserve and desire for yourself. Give yourself peace of mind. You deserve to be happy.” —Mark Victor Hansen
• “Live the full life of the mind, exhilarated by new ideas, intoxicated by the Romance of the unusual.” —Ernest Hemingway
• “Great thoughts speak only to the thoughtful mind, but great actions speak to all mankind.” —Emily P. Bissell
• “A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on.” —John F. Kennedy
• “Everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you and you can change it, you can influence it, you can build your own things that other people can use.” —Steve Jobs 
• “You are what you are and where you are because of what has gone into your mind. You can change what you are and where you are by changing what goes into your mind.” —Zig Ziglar
•  “Men and women range themselves into three classes or orders of intelligence; you can tell the lowest class by their habit of always talking about persons; the next by the fact that their habit is always to converse about things; the highest by their preference for the discussion of ideas.” -—Charles Stewart

Related link: 17 Motivational Quotes to Help You Achieve Your Dreams

Powerful Quotes From Some of The Greatest Minds Of All Time 

A strong mindset and willingness to seek wisdom have been the ideals of some of the greatest minds in history. If we reach back in time, we can gain some powerful inspiration. Thanks to these words from some of the greatest minds, we can further our own wisdom and get motivation to grow our intellect.

• “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” —Aristotle
• “A great mind becomes a great fortune.” —Seneca the Younger
• ‘“The mind is not a vessel that needs filling, but wood that needs igniting.” —Plutarch
• “Minds are of three kinds: one is capable of thinking for itself; another is able to understand the thinking of others; and a third can neither think for itself nor understand the thinking of others. The first is of the highest excellence, the second is excellent, and the third is worthless.” —Nicolo Machiavelli

• “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.” —Sun Tzu
• “A mind without instruction can no more bear fruit than can a field, however fertile, without cultivation.” —Cicero
• “A full belly is little worth when the mind is starved.” —Mark Twain

Be Inspired By History’s Greatest Minds 

You don’t have to be famous or a philosopher to find your own inspiration from great minds. So use the ideas and thoughts to move you to think differently in your everyday life. Be motivated by some of the greatest minds of all time to live your life to its fullest. And if great minds discuss ideas with others, you can try sharing these quotes to get the conversation started. 

Photo by Alpha Media Shutterstock/Shutterstock

The post Great Minds: 40+ Inspiring Quotes From History’s Greatest Thinkers appeared first on SUCCESS.

This unique island comprises two countries with open borders, so there are no checkpoints when crossing over into each one. Saint-Martin is an overseas collectivity of France while Sint Maarten is a constituent country of the kingdom of the Netherlands. No matter which side of the island you’re on, you feel like you are in Europe with a Caribbean twist.

Tourism to the island has been growing for a number of years in part due to the Dutch-French duality experience, according to travel advice site TravelAge West. A St. Martin newspaper reported that the island saw a 7% growth in cruise tourism at the start of 2024.

We stayed at the new JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort and Spa for a week on the Dutch side of the island, but it was only a five-minute drive to the French side. The plunge pool outside our room was our favorite feature of our stay. As we cooled off in the pool, we appreciated the ocean views of two islands, reminiscent of the landscapes you’d see in Italy or Greece. If I wanted a larger place to swim, I could walk just a few steps to take a dip in the ocean—by far the closest my hotel room has ever been to the water.

While we were there, we rented a car so that we could experience both sides of the island. Driving was a bit tricky with all the speed bumps and winding roads, but it was definitely worth it. Typically we use public transportation or walk when we travel, but neither was an option due to the lack of public transit, large hills and few sidewalks. We couldn’t even walk to the resort next door and a cab ride would’ve cost $50 round trip. We were able to explore the entire island (both countries)—beaches, restaurants, historic forts and more—which wouldn’t have been possible without a car.

The French side: Saint-Martin

On the French side, the official language is French. However, most people also spoke English and did so with us once they realized we were Americans. The street signs and menus were also written in French but often had English underneath. The official currency is the euro but U.S. dollars are accepted at most places.

Eat crepes in a French café

One of the most French experiences we had—and my favorite experience overall—was eating breakfast at an outdoor café located in the Saint-Martin capital Marigot. My daughter loves crepes so I researched the best crepes in Saint-Martin and found Ti Breizh. Our waitress, who was also the owner, warmly greeted us with a “Bonjour.” She seemed to know the other customers, chatting with them in French as they read the newspaper while eating their crepes. We ate our délicieux meal while people-watching the passersby.

Take a ferry to Îlet de Pinel

For a French experience similar to the French Riveria, take the five-minute ferry to Pinel Island, or Îlet de Pinel. We rented chairs and an umbrella for the day. Besides catching some rays on the beach, you can also hike a trail to view the other side of the island. We dined in the Karibuni restaurant for lunch while listening to the employees speak French and watching the boats pass by in the harbor. C’est magnifique!

The Dutch side: Sint Maarten

On the Dutch side, Dutch is the official language but most people spoke English. During our stay on the island as a whole, we heard more French than Dutch spoken mostly due to people speaking English on the Dutch side. The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but the U.S. dollar is accepted at most places.

Karaoke at the Oyster Bay Beach Resort

Next to our hotel was the Oyster Bay Beach Resort. We ate dinner there one night and then ventured over to the bar area to watch other guests perform karaoke. The whole experience—the singing, the ocean views and the cobblestone patio—reminded us of the musical theater production of Mama Mia, just with slightly less seasoned singers. It may not have been a Dutch experience, but there was definitely a Greek vibe to our adventures that night.

Dutch Blonde Beach Bar and Restaurant

Located in the Sint Maarten capital Philipsburg is the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar and Restaurant, which has a windmill like those the Netherlands is famous for, just a little smaller and less functional. You can dine on Dutch cuisine like pannenkoeken while viewing the beautiful Caribbean ocean.

Ready to pack your bags?

Even though we didn’t get to go to Paris, our trip to Sint Maarten/Saint-Martin was incredible and allowed us to experience a variety of European-like countries in addition to the Caribbean. We hope to return one day, so bon voyage or fijne reis—depending on which side of the island you’re on!

Photo courtesy of FredP/Shutterstock

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Parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, movie stars, wrestlers—basically, anyone who has lived enough under the sun—all have something to say about the benefits of discipline and its role in personal growth, productivity and success. Needless to say, all of them are right.

For some, discipline is the key to everything they want. For others, it’s what keeps them going forward amid challenges. However, everyone agrees that it’s difficult. 

Discipline requires resisting impulses, stopping procrastinating, eliminating distractions and focusing on what really matters. None of this is easy unless you have a well-thought-out plan. This is where setting clear, actionable goals becomes important. Read on to learn how to set discipline goals and build self-discipline. 

The Power Of Self-Discipline

Self-discipline offers many great benefits for work, personal life and beyond.

Improved Focus And Productivity

A study conducted with 377 college students found that individuals with a stronger sense of self-discipline are less likely to procrastinate in daily life and academics. In other words, discipline helps beat procrastination—an arch nemesis of productivity.

Learning how to be disciplined also keeps you in control of your thoughts and emotions, making you more focused on your tasks and, hence, more productive.

Better Time Management And Consistency

M. Scott Peck, an American psychiatrist and author, once wrote, “Until you value yourself, you won’t value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it.” 

Indeed, when you start valuing your goals over your urges, you also start valuing your time more. You become aware of its finiteness, how you spend it and how you should spend it more efficiently. Gradually, you become better at managing your time, which helps you consistently achieve your goals for days, weeks, months and years.

Increased Self-Confidence And Resilience

Confidence is among the most rewarding benefits of self-discipline. Every task you check off motivates you to do the next task. Over time, as you see yourself ticking off goals via sheer discipline, your self-confidence fires up.

This confidence makes you show up even on days you feel like giving up, making you more resilient and reinforcing discipline—continuing the cycle.

What Is A Discipline Goal?

A discipline goal is a commitment that helps you build self-discipline via self-control, consistency and habits. Unlike regular goals, discipline goals focus not on your desired outcomes but on improving the processes that lead you to the outcomes.

Unfortunately, we are all so used to setting outcome-based goals that we forget to care about the processes. For example:

• Getting straight A’s in school
• Reading a trending bestselling book
• Learning to play the guitar
• Buying a house

The list never ends, but there is a catch: fixating solely on the outcomes doesn’t work. 

While regular goals tell you where you want to go, discipline shows you how. So, contrary to outcome-based goals, discipline goals sound very different and could include:

• Studying for three hours every day after school
• Reading 10 pages of a book every day
• Attending guitar lessons and practicing every day
• Saving a fixed minimum amount of money every month

This way, discipline goals not only help you achieve your goals; they also help you build habits that set you up for betterment and long-term growth.

How to Set Discipline Goals That Stick

Practicing self-discipline, in itself, is not a goal but a habit—and a very tough one at that. But, setting discipline goals can keep you on track. Here are the steps to set effective discipline goals:

1. Identify Your Priorities

Self-discipline starts with prioritizing the things that truly matter. To do that, create to-do lists for the day’s most important tasks and check them off before the end. Or follow the Eisenhower matrix approach and categorize tasks into four categories in this order:

1. Urgent and important
2. Urgent but not important
3. Not urgent but important 
4. Not urgent and not important

Organizing your tasks in this way will help you put your best efforts into the things that matter the most and manage your time more efficiently.

2. Set SMART Goals

The SMART framework is among the best goal-setting models for the workplace and life. It ensures that your goals are:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Relevant
• Time-bound

For example, if you want to read more, here’s what a SMART goal might sound like:

“I want to finish four books over the next two months by reserving 30 minutes after dinner to read and minimizing distractions by switching my phone off while reading.”

Remember that the better the quality of your goals, the greater your chances of achieving them. 

3. Break Goals Into Smaller Habits

Ironically, often, the secret to achieving big goals is starting small. You can be more disciplined without getting too overwhelmed by dividing big, tough tasks into smaller, doable chunks. For example:

• To build a reading habit, pick up a short book and read five pages every day. 

• To improve your self-care, build one habit (like getting seven hours of sleep) at a time. 

• If you want to get promoted at work, start taking on leadership roles, completing relevant training and seeking mentorship.

4. Write Down Your Goals

Writing your goals down on paper helps bring them out of your head and into the real world. Take a piece of paper, jot your goals on it and stick it on a wall. These written goals will keep reminding you of your ambitions and keep you on track when distracted.

5. Track Your Progress

The only person you must compare yourself with on the path of self-discipline is your past self, and that’s why you should keep monitoring your progress regularly. Here are some ways to do that:

• Maintain to-do lists to manage daily tasks
• Keep a journal to reflect on your daily or weekly progress
• Mark your calendar every day you check 90% off your to-do list
• Use habit-tracking apps like Habitica, Streaks, StickK, and Habitify

Self-Discipline Exercises to Build Long-Term Habits

Think of self-discipline as an endless ladder. It takes you to new heights, but only if you keep climbing. However, going up against the gravity of procrastination, distractions and similar evils needs practice, and these self-discipline exercises can help:

1. Time Blocking

Time blocking is a time-management technique in which you divide your day into several fixed time slots. You block each time slot for a single task or group of tasks and do nothing else during that time. 

For example, you can block 7-8 a.m. for exercise and meditation, 8-9 a.m. for shower and breakfast, the next 30 minutes for responding to emails, the two subsequent hours for focused work and so on. Since we only get 24 hours per day, time blocking is a great way to efficiently utilize those fixed hours.

2. The 2-Minute Rule

David Allen introduced “the 2-minute rule” in his book Getting Things Done. The rule states that if something takes less than two minutes to complete, you should do it as soon as you think of it. This approach helps you beat procrastination, as many times, we procrastinate small tasks until they add up and become too much to handle. 

3. Mindfulness And Meditation

To stay disciplined, focus on the present rather than past mistakes or future uncertainties. Practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation can relieve stress and help you stay in the present moment.

Here are some ways to practice mindfulness:

• Breathing meditations: Focus on your breath for as little as two minutes per day
• Mindful journaling: Jot down your thoughts, feelings and emotions every day
• Single-tasking: Do one task at a time with full focus (try time blocking)

The more present you are in an action, the higher the quality of your efforts.

4. Delayed Gratification

Delayed gratification is the practice of resisting immediate rewards to get greater, more valuable rewards later. 

For example, suppose you want to lose weight, so you resist your cravings throughout the week and reserve Sundays for your favorite sweet snack. You delay the reward of having sweets for the greater reward of shedding some extra pounds and feeling healthier.

Delayed gratification helps you avoid temptations and say yes to what’s truly important.

5. Monk Mode

Monk mode is exactly what it sounds like—adopting a monk-like attitude to achieve your goals. It’s not a specific exercise but a period during which you fully commit yourself to something. Going into monk mode is ideal for achieving a single goal within a rough time frame (usually a few days to weeks).

For example, you may have to write a research paper, train for a marathon, lose 10 pounds or meet a tight deadline. Fixate on the goal, create a strict routine and rules, eliminate all distractions and get to work.

Take Charge Of Your Life With Self-Discipline

Building self-discipline is hard, especially if you struggle with procrastination, instant gratification and poor focus. But the good news is that habits like task prioritization and setting SMART goals, coupled with exercises like time blocking and delayed gratification, can help you be more disciplined—one step at a time.

There is no need to aim too big in the beginning. Identify just one area of your life that needs improvement, set a discipline goal and start from there. With time and consistency, your self-discipline will create a domino effect of success across other areas of your life.

Photo from Khosro/Shutterstock.com

The post How to Set Discipline Goals And Take Charge Of Your Life appeared first on SUCCESS.

Keep reading for tips and tricks that you can use now—and in the future—to secure your own retirement plans.

Pinpoint your current situation

The first step is to figure out your current income, savings, and debt—or more simply, your overall assets minus your liabilities. Getting a good handle on your current situation will help you know exactly where you stand. Then, you can figure out how much more income you’ll need to generate to meet your savings goal. 

Don’t forget to include anticipated income sources like social security or pension income. These can add quite a bit to your retirement savings.

A simple calculation

According to Andrew Crowell, vice chairman of wealth management at D.A. Davidson & Co., the general rule is that whatever your lifestyle spending is today, plan on spending about three-quarters, or 80%, of that in retirement. “If a family is living on $10,000 a month today [or] $120,000 a year, [in retirement they are] probably going to [spend] a little bit closer to $8,000 a month because certain expenses, [such as] the amount [you’re spending on gas or] commuting to work, [will fall away],” he says. Because of this, creating a good estimate of your monthly expenses and keeping an eye on those costs is important.

Another common estimate that’s thrown around in the retirement planning community is the 4% rule, which suggests that you “can safely withdraw 4% of your retirement savings each year without depleting your principal over a 30-year retirement period,” says Bobby Mascia, CFBS, founder and CEO of Green Ridge Wealth Planning. “For example, if you need $50,000 per year [in retirement], you’d need a retirement portfolio of approximately $1,250,000 ($50,000 / 0.04).” 

However, Mascia adds that the 4% rule can be limiting, so don’t take it too seriously. “Your safe withdrawal rate may vary based on your risk tolerance, investment strategy and current age, respective to how long you expect to live in retirement,” he says.

Think about where you want to be

The next part is the fun part—this is when you get to dream about your retirement plans. Do you want to take several extravagant trips each year, or would you rather purchase an RV and drive across the country? Will you downsize and move or keep your current home? Envision what you want to do later in life so you can start planning for it now, Crowell says.

Hopefully by the time you retire, your home will be paid off and your kids will be financially independent. Still, there may be additional expenses you hadn’t considered, such as the cost of healthcare, travel and daily leisure activities, explains Mascia. 

“Things wear out, [and] there is deferred maintenance on homes and autos and things like that. So those are going to be ongoing expenses,” Crowell adds. “Do you want to help pay for your grandchildren’s education? That’s another outflow.” Make sure you take into account all these potential expenses so you don’t short-change the lifestyle you want to lead.

What you can do now

The sooner you’re able to save for retirement, the better, due to compounding interest and the growth of investments over time. Putting away $400 when you’re 20 years old will be much more beneficial than putting away $800 when you’re 40.

Still, there are many other ways to increase retirement savings, regardless of your age. For example, you can automate your savings, take advantage of catch-up contributions and cut back on unnecessary expenses, such as automated subscriptions you no longer use. Additionally, do your best to get rid of debt now, such as your mortgage, car payments or student loan payments. “Think about what you can pay down now so that in retirement, you don’t have that outflow any longer,” Crowell says.

Later life gigs

Another popular trend is working a side gig in retirement to earn additional income. “I’ve been [helping people plan for retirement] for almost 30 years, and the gig economy is real and people are using it in very creative ways,” Crowell says. “I have several retiree [clients] that have always been crafty people. [They enjoy] knitting, artwork [and] painting.” In retirement, these individuals sell those crafts on Etsy or at craft fairs. Others drive an Uber in retirement. 

“People are realizing they can’t golf seven days a week or their body wears out,” Crowell adds. “They can’t play pickleball seven days a week because [their] knees and hips and joints [will hurt].” 

People are living longer and often enjoy turning their hobbies into cashflow, so don’t assume that retirement is the end of the line for your income.

Revisit your plan annually

Starting in your mid to late 40s, it’s important to review your retirement projections annually. “Retirement planning is an ongoing process that requires regular review and adjustments,” Mascia says.

No one can predict the future, and life changes all the time. For example, did an older relative come to live with you and increase your monthly spend? Or did you inherit money that changed your base amount of savings? Reviewing your retirement plan each year will prevent you from being caught off guard so you know you’ll have what you need.

At the end of the day, think about the big picture. Where are you now, where do you want to be and how can you get there? The sooner you start thinking about these ideas, the better you’ll be when it’s finally time to start the retirement you’ve always dreamed of.

Photo by Yuri A/Shutterstock.com

The post How to Calculate How Much Money You Really Need to Retire appeared first on SUCCESS.

Layoff wave hits Kohl’s, Forever 21, Chevron and others

Retail companies often lay off staff as a strategy to reduce costs and boost profitability. This typically occurs when businesses face rising operational expenses or declining sales, prompting them to streamline and downsize operations. In other cases, layoffs may be part of a strategic shift, where companies focus on a core area with long-term growth potential. While businesses routinely restructure, such moves can often indicate trouble.

Kohl’s was one of the first major retailers this year to announce significant layoffs and store closures, cutting 10% of its corporate workforce and planning to shut down 27 underperforming stores by April. According to the company, more than half of the layoffs were from unfilled positions, while the rest involved current employees. Affected locations include Arizona and California, with 10 stores closing, as well as Texas and Ohio. 

Over 15,000 U.S. stores could close in 2025—double last year’s total

The retail sector is bracing for a wave of closures in the months ahead, with Coresight forecasting that 15,000 stores will shut down in 2025—twice the number seen last year. Joann Inc. revealed on Feb. 12 that it would be closing 500 of its 800 stores nationwide, but followed that announcement up just a couple weeks later announcing all stores would close. Meanwhile, Chevron is preparing for a large-scale global downsizing, aiming to cut 15% to 20% of its workforce over the next two years—a move that could eliminate around 8,000 jobs.

Estée Lauder has now joined the growing list, announcing that it will shed 5,800 to 7,000 jobs over the next two years as part of a similar restructuring effort. Meanwhile, Starbucks, which recently took steps to stave off a large-scale frontline staff strike, has instead turned its focus to corporate layoffs, with 1,100 employees set to be let go. Forever 21 is the most recent company to announce layoffs, just this week confirming it will close its Los Angeles headquarters, with hundreds of job cuts expected to begin by the end of April.

Inflation and online discounts are hammering physical stores, with consumers flocking to fast retail platforms like Temu and Amazon Haul for easier shopping and endless sales. This shift, which has been evolving ever since post-COVID reopenings, is putting immense pressure on traditional retailers that rely on foot traffic. The rise of food delivery and self-service technology means even major food chains can struggle to keep everyone on board in the modern age. 

Despite concerns over the obvious decline of physical retail, brick-and-mortar stores continue to play a crucial role for certain brands looking to engage with customers beyond the digital sphere. These spaces offer not just products, but a sense of connection, trust and immediate service. 

“2025 is shaping up to be the worst year for store closures in recent history,” Coresight Research CEO Deborah Weinswig told USA TODAY. “We believe there is a significant place for physical retail, but it needs to adapt to today’s consumer. They don’t want to have any friction. They don’t want to wait in lines, they don’t want to have challenges with returns, they don’t want it to be hard to find product information,” she added.

The battle to keep physical stores alive is driving a complete reinvention of their design and purpose to attract modern shoppers. These spaces are becoming increasingly experience-driven, with companies striving to create unique in-person engagements that differentiate them from online shopping. As a result, employees now have the opportunity to explore new in-person roles that emphasize marketing and customer service qualities. 

Moving up or moving on: Smart career moves for retail workers and independent retailers

For those facing job uncertainty in the ever-changing retail industry, finding a starting point may feel overwhelming. Yet, the first step is understanding how retail businesses around you are evolving. Are stores closing rapidly, or are employees being integrated with technology to enhance efficiency? If your position remains secure for now, take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with emerging tools that could reshape your role. By staying informed and adaptable, you can carve out a unique place for yourself. 

For others, now might be the time to make a bold move into industries where retail experience can thrive. Fields like e-commerce operations, merchandising strategy or brand consulting offer strong career paths as traditional retail shifts. Stepping into management or strategic roles can also provide stability, as leadership positions are famously less vulnerable to automation and cutbacks. 

The retail apocalypse hasn’t fully arrived, but the industry is pushing hard with technological progression. Store closures and automation are reshaping the job market, prompting workers to reconsider the stability of their roles. Some are moving up into management, taking on positions that offer more stability and influence. Others are shifting into logistics and fulfillment, where e-commerce growth has created an urgent need for skilled employees. 

Today’s customers expect engagement, not just a storefront. Independent retailers who have no choice but to stay on location can harness social media and online marketing to draw in new shoppers and keep their business relevant. By maintaining a promotional focus, you reinforce your store’s value, showing consumers you’re not just surviving the digital shift, you’re thriving with it. Flexibility always wins, and knowing where your skills translate keeps new career paths within reach if change is inevitable. 

Photo by BreizhAtao/Shutterstock

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