What’s on *your* vision board for 2026? Maybe it’s starting a side hustle (hiii, Etsy bracelet biz), auditioning for the spring musical or finally publishing your poems for the world to see.
Dreaming big is one thing, but actually taking the leap? That can feel…kinda intimidating.
So we’re here to help: Welcome to Make It Happen 2026, your guide to glowing up your goals this year. All week long, we’re sharing real advice from GL girls who decided to go for it—whether that’s growing an online platform, writing a book or turning a creative hobby into actual income. Ready to get majorly inspired? Thought so!
Meet Gabby G., 18, who turned her bright idea into a budding biz.
🎀 The Biz:
“I started Gabby Bows when I was just 5. My barrettes kept falling out—they weren’t designed for thick hair like mine. So my mom and I brainstormed accessories that could work. We connected with engineers and manufacturers, and it took two years to bring our idea to life. Over a decade later, we’re still going strong.”
💰 The Bucks:
“Most of what I make goes back into the business, but I do have enough left over to go shopping or grab dinner with friends.”
⭐ Your Turn:
Ask yourself: What do you wish existed but doesn’t? Once you have your idea, figure out the steps to get your business off the ground—and calculate the initial costs. Once your product is ready, use social media, Etsy and booths at farmers markets to start selling, selling, selling!
Hey, girl! Just to let you know, this originally ran in our June/July 2025 issue. Read our print mag for *free* today when you click HERE!
Want more life inspo? Check these out:
👚 How to sell your clothes on Poshmark and *actually* make money
👚 How to turn your clothes into cash
👚 EXCLUSIVE! Liliana Mijangos is making history as a teen fashion designer
Top image: Karly Santiago
