We recently connected with Alex Keiderling and have shared our conversation below.

Alex, appreciate you joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

One of the biggest risks I took was leaving a stable job I held for 10 years to start my own design business. I had no formal training—just a vision and a willingness to bet on myself. I taught myself CAD and learned design software from scratch, often working late into the night. It was a leap into the unknown, but that risk turned into one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. Now, I run my own business doing what I love every day.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I worked in the landscape materials business for 10 years. I wasn’t fairly treated towards the end of
the 10 years and I was ooffered a job from a landscape company to run there social media pages.
The landscape company needed someone to do Landscape designs for them. They bought the software and i learned it in 2 weeks.
I then transitioned from working for them to creating my own design business a year later.
I created the business and self taught how to do the programs and learn aspects of CAD.

What sets me apart is my hands-on, personalized approach to design. I built my business from the ground up, self-taught in CAD and design software, so I understand the value of hard work and precision. I don’t just deliver designs—I care deeply about the quality of the work and how it makes my clients feel. Customer happiness is at the core of everything I do, and I’m committed to making sure every project feels thoughtful, functional, and tailored to their vision.

What I’m most proud of is sticking to something that isn’t guaranteed. This job is in high demand and is a needed aspect for new homeowners or new builds. Landscapers are in need of it also. But its a competitive market and the money isn’t guaranteed unless you work for it and have a good brand to show to people. This job requires great relationships and being able to sell your product.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

After spending a decade in a steady job, I reached a point where I felt unfulfilled and overlooked. I’d always been drawn to design, but I had no formal background—just curiosity and a drive to draw and create. That moment of discomfort became my pivot point.

I made the tough decision to walk away from the security of my past career and start over. I taught myself CAD and design software from scratch, spending countless late nights learning and building from the ground up. It wasn’t easy, and there was a lot of uncertainty, but I knew I wanted more control over my work and time.

That pivot completely reshaped my life. I now run my own design company, and I get to do meaningful, creative work that prioritizes quality and client satisfaction. It was a big risk—but the right one.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

For a long time, I believed I couldn’t start a business unless I had formal training, years of experience, or everything perfectly lined up. That belief held me back for years.

When I finally took the leap and left my job of 10 years to start my own design business, I didn’t have a roadmap—I was self-taught, learning CAD and design software from scratch. At first, I doubted myself constantly, thinking, “I’m not ready yet.”

But the truth is, no one ever feels 100% ready. I had to unlearn the idea that perfection was a prerequisite for progress. What actually matters is being willing to learn, adapt, and keep going. That mindset shift changed everything—and it’s the reason I now run a business I’m proud of.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aklandscapedesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aklandscapedesigns
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aklandscapedesigns