It seems like Ina Garten knows the secret ingredient for virtually everything—whether it’s the unexpected coffee in her outrageous brownies recipe or the key to success. In a recent Instagram AMA (“ask me anything,” ICYDK), Garten discussed catering, party planning, and what motivates her success. And while the Barefoot Contessa host isn’t hesitant to share her knowledge, you might be surprised to know what really keeps her afloat.

Ina Garten’s Recipe for Success

Garten relied on one very important ingredient when building her success: her support system. When asked whether her path would have played out the way it did if her support system was any different, Garten’s answer is clear and concise. “I think one really important thing for being successful is you need a good support system around you,” she explains. “You need people who believe in you, who trust you, who think you’re smart and funny, and you can do anything. So just find those people and surround yourself with them—and give it back to them.”

With many A-list celebrities in her support system—including Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Taylor Swift, and so many more—Garten recognizes the importance of people who believe in you. Furthermore, she believes in the power of reciprocity; while building your support system with people who cherish your presence, Garten knows to lend the same support to her friends.

Other Life Lessons Ina Garten Swears by

Besides building an excellent support system, Garten also lives by other emboldening life lessons. “I like to do scary things, and those are the things that are the making of your life,” she says. “It’s not that I was brave, I was just willing to be uncomfortable with the decisions I was making.” Garten likes to imagine it as a metaphor of diving head-first into water: “I think we’re all standing on the side of the pond thinking, ‘Oh, I don’t know what that’s gonna be like.’ Just jump in,” she says.

In addition, Garten doesn’t live by long-term goals that are meant to define her life; instead, she takes things slowly. “I do the best job I can do today and the best job I can do tomorrow,” she says. “I found when I have long-term goals, I block out opportunities that I might’ve had.” Rather than fixating on what’s going to happen in the future, you might benefit from Garten’s day-by-day method—because you never know what unexpected opportunity might come along and shake things up.