Women in Retail Leadership Circle (WIRLC) and its sister publication, Total Retail, are proud to present its eighth annual list of the Top Women in Retail. This year’s list features a who’s who of top female executives in the retail industry. Below, a select group of honorees share their answers to the question, “What’s the best piece of advice you ever received, and who gave it to you?” You can download the entire Top Women in Retail 2018 list here

“The best advice I’ve ever received is to always be an avid learner and be curious. Never stop! I don’t remember who gave me this advice, but it’s something I truly believe and live by.”  Jenny Ming, CEO, Charlotte Russe

“Take things seriously, not personally. This was advice I received during my time at AOL. We were producing a community-led conversation with Bill Clinton that was to be broadcast to our audience and featuring questions from the AOL community. He was asked how he handled challenges during his presidency. Afterwards, he told me he received the same advice from Nelson Mandela while visiting him in jail in South Africa. Taking this to heart, I’ve also found truth and stability separating the personal from the professional.”  Tina Sharkey, Co-Founder and CEO, Brandless

“I’ll never forget the three words my stepfather Rob spoke to me during his battle with brain cancer: “You do good.” He taught me that the most important thing I could do in life is use my talents to better the lives of others, which is why I built a brand founded on the pillars of family, fashion and philanthropy. It’s the heart of who I am as a person and who we are as a company.”  Kendra Scott, CEO, Designer and Founder, Kendra Scott

“I’ve been fortunate to have many great mentors over the years that have given me invaluable advice along the way, but I think the advice that resonates with me the most comes from my father. As immigrants who came to the U.S. for a better life, both of my parents always dreamed big for me. Even as a young girl, I remember my dad saying, “When a door opens, walk through it.” The sacrifices my parents made were ultimately for my benefit, and they offered me wonderful opportunities. My dad always encouraged me to take bold steps, whether in my career or personal life, and as a result I’ve never felt like fear was an option for me. Now I can honestly say that I’ve had the good fortune of walking through several amazing doors.” — Jocelyn Wong, Chief Marketing Officer, Lowe’s