T. Lamont Jackson, Licensed Barber

We continue to see within our list of interviewees' the need for something to call our own. There is something very appealing about the stories of those that start with nothing but an idea and develop it into something real. The rags to riches stories are a great example. We hope that the majority of us trying, make it. With hard work, set goals, planning and a bit luck that everything aligns for us, we can all achieve it. Our slow progression should just serve as a reminder that there is a process to everything. With today's interview Lamont reminds us that you have to have passion for anything you do. Read his responses below and use them as motivation to start or continue your own plan for success

What lead you to start working as a barber? How long have you been doing it?
-I was raised in a barbershop. My mother owned the shop for several years, even though she did not teach me how to cut, it was a part of me. I enlisted in the Army just out of high school and I began to cut a few of my army buddies' hair. I found out that I had a natural talent for it. I was medically retired from the army in December 2014. After my retirement, becoming a barber was the easiest choice I ever had to make. My progress has taken me two years now.

Would you consider this your passion? Do you have another field that you work in?
-Barbering is most definitely my passion and a hobby. I have asked other very talented barber's if they would cut hair if ever they won the lottery most of them say no. I feel that if it's is your passion then you would do it anyway. And so would I.

What is your craziest client story?
-I actually haven't had any crazy stories happen in the last two years. It's very straightforward, all of my clients have respect for me and treat me like family. This is a mutual relationship but I guess I will be waiting, LOL.

What is the one thing you want to accomplish this year(in business)?
-I would like to open my own barbershop this year and win a few more barber competitions.

What is one long term goal you have in life?
-At the moment I just want to open a barber school/barber college.

Are you feeling positive about the country's stance on marijuana?
-Honestly I don't see anything wrong with marijuana, it's definitely not for me, but I feel like if it's okay to smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol which both have negative effects on your mind and body, what's wrong with using marijuana?

Lastly, what is your ideal retirement scenario?
-I'm actually already retired I am actually going to cut hair until I can't anymore.