What’s a small habit that has helped you succeed? It’s one of the questions we asked this year’s 20 in Their 20s honorees.
Their responses are below.
Michael Leiterman, project manager, Kinco Constructors
“Waking up early. It’s pretty cliché to talk about how you can ‘grab this much time back in your day’ and this or that — but it’s so true. I’ve been an early riser since high school, through college, and still to this day. The quiet time in the morning has become my favorite time of the day: I’ll make a pot of coffee and watch the news, catch up on whatever game I fell asleep watching, get some quiet thinking time or get a jump on whatever the day is going to bring. It has really helped me start the day with clarity and control.”
Lacey LaBee, senior chemist, ECCI
“A small habit that has made a big impact on my success is reminding myself that no one really knows exactly what they’re doing, but some people just do it anyway. Embracing that mindset has helped me try new things with confidence, even when I feel unsure. Pushing past the fear of not knowing has opened doors and allowed me to grow in ways I never expected.”
Matthew Brashear, director of finance, Delta Dental of Arkansas
“At the end of each day, I create a to-do list to help set my priorities for the next day. It helps me clear my mind before heading home to my family, and when I return to the office the next morning, I know exactly what needs my attention first.”
Emily Whillock, interior designer, Evo Business Environments
“I try to be intentional with my time and say ‘no’ to things I do not have the capacity or energy to take on, both at work and in my personal life. In the past, I would feel guilty for turning down a new project opportunity even if I was already at capacity with my workload. Similarly, I would often agree to plans that I knew would take me away from other things I would rather be doing. Saying ‘no’ allows me to take control of my time and better prioritize my personal and work to-do lists.”
Lauren Weaver, co-founder & co-owner, Upskillery and The Patient Whisperers
“Mornings of gratitude: starting each day with gratitude for the past, present and future.”
Christian Crain, Vice President of Operations, Crain Automotive Holdings
“I ask one more question than I think I need to. It keeps me learning and helps me make better decisions.”
Cole Jester, Secretary of State, State of Arkansas
“Reading the Bible. If you read the book of Proverbs or the wisdom of Jesus, it rings just as true today.”
Bailey Eads, treasury services sales specialist, Farmers Bank & Trust
“Using — and truly operating by — a calendar. It might sound simple, but it has been an absolute game-changer for me. Juggling multiple roles across three businesses, community organizations, school, family commitments and my own personal life meant I was constantly forgetting something. Now, if it’s not on my calendar, it’s not happening. I rely on both a digital and a physical calendar so I can always have a clear view of what’s ahead. I color-code everything — nine colors in total — and add every event or meeting, even if I’m unsure about attending. This habit lets me see the big picture at a glance, prioritize what truly matters and plan my days and weeks with confidence. While it may seem like a minor habit, for someone with a busy, multifaceted schedule, it has made all the difference.”
Amanda White, senior technical project manager, cybersecurity, Walmart
“Every weekend, I carve out time in a thoughtfully designed space — a quiet café, bookstore or gallery for a personal planning session. It’s my ritual reset: a pause to reflect, map what’s ahead and realign with my long-term goals. In a world that rarely slows down, this is how I stay clear and focused.”
Cole Swede, partner, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard
“A good friend of mine taught me to live by a list of things to do. I keep a daily calendar but also always have a scratch pad with my ‘to do list.’ Some days it seems like that list continues to grow and I don’t make it through everything, but when I finish the last task on the list, I feel a great sense of accomplishment, and relief!”
Chandler Perry, parcel application & special project engineer, Hytrol Conveyor Co.
“Being willing to take a risk. Life can be fast-paced but without risk, there is no reward. I would not be where I am today had I not taken risks.”
Olivia Heritage, senior marketing associate, Tempus Realty Partners
“I wake up early Monday through Friday to drink coffee, hang out with my cat and avoid my phone. Starting the day present with myself shapes the rest of it.”
Trinity Lopez, director of operations, Ingen Software
“Being present can be a challenge in today’s world filled with distractions. I’ve learned that putting in the effort to engage with those around us is a valuable habit to cultivate. When we take the time to be present, it not only enhances our own experiences, but it also makes the people in our lives feel appreciated and valued.”
Shawna Martin, assistant sales manager, SERVPRO of Little Rock
“Saying thank you. Whether it be a handwritten thank-you note to a referral partner or a quick thank you after someone holds the door open, expressing gratitude consistently helps build stronger relationships and keeps me mindful of the little things and people that help along the way.”
Hunter Strong, sales manager, FirstTrust Home Loans Inc.
“‘It’s never as good as it seems, and it is never as bad as it seems.’ I picked that up in college baseball, and it’s shaped how I handle pressure in business, life and leadership — stay steady and show up every day.”
Ben King, business consultant, Arkansas Small Business & Technology Development Center at Southern Arkansas University
“Consistently maintaining a positive attitude and representing myself professionally — through how I speak, dress and carry myself. I strive to lead by example, inspire others and leave a lasting impression that reflects integrity and ambition. This mindset has opened doors and helped me build meaningful connections.”
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