For the past 20 years, the Business Record has celebrated Forty Under 40. The honor has long recognized up-and-coming business leaders and the powerful impact young professionals make in Greater Des Moines.

liz lidgett, Class of 2012
CEO, Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design

What advice would you give to young people who want to make an impact?

I often say we are so lucky to live in Des Moines. When I lived in Los Angeles, you’d have to be a millionaire to make an impact, but in Des Moines, you have to have a good idea, be willing to work hard and be kind to others. Do your research to learn what you are passionate about, and then begin reaching out to organizations. We live in a special place because you can make an impact and once the ball starts rolling, more opportunities will come your way. Like with most things, today is a great day to get started.

What’s one of your everyday habits that helps you be successful?

Each morning before I get out of bed, I set my intentions. I think about how I want my day to go, I picture meetings going well, and think about how my day can have the best outcome while I can do the most good. It doesn’t always end up happening the way that I had envisioned, but I find that more often than not, it helps me start each day with the right mindset.

Class of 2012

• Michael Abbott
• Sondra Ashmore
• Shannon Baird
• J. Eric Boehlert
• Nataliya Boychenko
• Becki Brommel
• Catherine Cownie
• Spencer Cox
• Scott Crawford
• Tony Dickinson
• Shannon Duval
• Tim Hayes
• Christi Hegstad
• Naura Heiman Godar
• Danielle Hermann
• Sara Kobilka
• Liz Lidgett
• Holly Logan
• Matthew Marckmann
• Bryan Michael
• Ben Milne
• Suzanne Mineck
• Nikki Miras Mordini
• David Nelmark
• Anthony Nguyen
• Lynh Nguyen Patterson
• Matt Nuetzman
• Brad Phillips
• Tina Potthoff
• Erin Schneider
• Meg Schneider
• Steve SchraderBachar
• Jamie Schug
• Kristina Stanger
• Nate Stewart
• Jason Stone
• Melissa Stover
• Tray Wade
• Eric Wieland
• Geoff Wood