People often ask, “If you could start your business over, what would you do differently?”

Here’s my honest answer:
Plenty.
But also… not much.

Let me explain.

If I could hit reset on Eclipse Creative with everything I’ve learned since day one, of course, I’d make different moves. I’d avoid a few expensive mistakes. I’d pace things differently. I’d lead with more clarity and confidence.

But every misstep, every early risk, every gut decision that didn’t play out perfectly—it all shaped the company we’ve become. And it shaped me into the leader I am now.

So while I wouldn’t erase the path, I’ve definitely picked up some lessons along the way.

Lessons I’d Carry (and a Few I’d Tweak)

Start fast—but not reckless

In the early days, risk is a requirement. If you’re not putting yourself out there, you’re not moving the needle. But I’ve learned that putting the cart before the horse—investing too fast, hiring too early, or scaling without foundation—can cost you more than just money. It can cost you momentum.

Hire slowly, trust deeply

One of the hardest lessons? Learning to trust others even when it doesn’t work out. Some people will surprise you in the best way. Others… not so much. But leadership means trusting anyway—and learning from the misfires without closing yourself off.

Trust your gut. Listen to your heart.

I used to think leadership was all about data, logic, and checklists. And yeah, those matter. But the biggest shifts in Eclipse—the ones that really moved us forward—came from gut instinct and heart-driven decisions.

Keep your eye on the bottom line

Creativity without accountability can sink a business. One thing I’d do earlier? Track tighter. Measure more. Build systems that show you what’s working and what’s just noise.

Have fun

This one’s simple—but worth repeating: Have fun. Be creative. Make space for joy.
It’s easy to get so caught up in the grind that you forget why you started in the first place. If I could do it again, I’d protect the fun more fiercely.

Looking Back to Look Forward

Every once in a while, something from the past makes you pause and smile. For me, that was rereading a Columbus CEO article from April 2001—where I was named a “Rising Star.”

At the time, Eclipse Studios (now Eclipse Creative) had just made its move into our Taylor Road space. I had big dreams and a bold vision: two divisions—Print and Studio—working side by side to serve our clients with creativity and care.

Fast forward two decades, and we’ve expanded far beyond that vision. What started as two divisions is now four (with more on the horizon). But what struck me most wasn’t the scale—it was the sentiment I shared back then:

“I want clients’ loyalty more than their money.”

That’s what I’m most proud of.
Because that intention still drives everything we do at Eclipse.
It’s not just about deliverables. It’s about building trust. Creating work we believe in. And showing up for clients in a way that earns lasting relationships.

Looking back, I realize we’ve stayed true to that original spark—and that’s what has fueled our growth more than anything else.

Here is the article, if you’re interested in reminiscing with me.

The Truth About Second Chances

The idea of starting over is tempting. But the truth is—every chapter, every challenge, every win and every misstep—is what got us here.

So no, I wouldn’t trade the journey. But if you’re just getting started—or if you’re in a season of “I don’t know what I’m doing”—here’s what I’ll say:

✅ Take risks early, but know your boundaries
✅ Protect your culture and your cash
✅ Be bold—but be patient
✅ Learn from the pain, but don’t carry it longer than you need to
✅ Make space for the spark that got you going in the first place

Let’s Talk About It

If you could do it all over again—what’s one thing you’d change?
Or what’s one thing you wouldn’t touch because it made you who you are?