Motivational quotes on Instagram might be that nudge of encouragement you need to get ready in the morning, but sometimes, you also need a little something extra — like, say, an interview with a visionary woman where she candidly discusses her career trajectory, including the biggest professional challenges she's faced and the greatest lessons she's learned along the way. Alright, this might be a little different from your daily dose of caffeine, but it's no less effective. An insight into someone else's professional path could make you see your own job, weaknesses, and ambitions in a whole new light — or even be the kickstart you need to reevaluate your goals.

That's exactly what Refinery29 U.K.'s "How I #MadeIt" series aims to achieve, with its honest profiles of successful women in fashion. In it, they dish not-so-cookie-cutter advice that, regardless of the industry or field you work in, can help you understand the way others tackle a problem in the workplace or confront career frustrations — in a way that provides inspiration to help you on your own path.

You may not know their names, but you've probably stumbled upon their work — from MatchesFashion's buying director Natalie Kingham to Frances Corner, the head of the London College of Fashion. Their job titles run the gamut of gigs available in the fashion industry, but they all have one thing in common: These women are killing the game. And they kindly shared their words of wisdom to help us all approach work in a better way. Read on, and let these incredible professionals inspire you to give it your all in 2017.