HIBA HUSAYNI, ZAHN-Z
Mom and dad phone call every morn-
ing on my way to work. My siblings and 
I made it a daily habit to check on them 
every day on our way to work. Some of 
my siblings cheat and call them on lunch 
breaks too. I’m not sure how it contributes 
to professional success, but it definitely 
makes my day better to hear their voices 
and get their blessing and unwavering 
support. 
ERSIN YILDIRIM, GOLDEN PLANET USA
Every morning, I review the most 
important priorities across our operations 
and decide where my attention can create 
the greatest impact that day. This habit 
helps me remain focused while managing 
teams and business activities across Turkey, 
Poland, and the United States. 
VICTORIA RUTA, TIFFANY & CO.
Meditation is a daily habit that has had 
a positive impact on both my personal and 
professional life. I practice each morning and 
before bed, which helps me stay focused, 
manage stress, and approach challenges 
with a clear and balanced mindset. 
ELLIOT DILAMANI, DILAMANI
I make a conscious effort to be responsive 
and follow through. Whether it’s a retail 
partner or a colleague, I’ve found that timely 
communication and doing what you say 
you’re going to do builds lasting trust, and 
that’s something I try to practice every day. 
SARAH M. HAUGAARD, LIONHEART
One of my favorite parts of the day, 
which feels like a ritual, is walking to the 
showroom with my sister, Joy, who is both 
my business partner and the designer 
behind our brand. It gives us a chance to 
slow down, observe our surroundings, and 
appreciate the little details before the day 
begins. By the time we arrive at the show-
room, we’re focused, energized, and ready 
to take on whatever the day brings. 
GAURAV KHANDELWAL, UNION GEMS
I use the Eisenhower Matrix to triage 
my to-do list every day. It forces me to 
separate what’s actually important from 
what just feels urgent. In a small business, 
everything feels like it’s on fire. The matrix 
is how I stay focused on what actually 
moves the needle. 
BRITTANY KELLY, DAVID ADAMS FINE JEWELRY 
Accountability. Taking ownership of my 
mistakes and using them as a teaching tool 
for my team. 
20 UNDER
40
Q3
WHAT IS A DAILY 
HABIT YOU HAVE 
THAT CONTRIBUTES 
TO YOUR 
PROFESSIONAL 
SUCCESS?
64          RETAILER HALL OF FAME 2026
Continued on page 66

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