Almost every entrepreneur has had to decide whether to take the leap now or wait– perhaps they wanted to acquire more capital, experience or connections. Given how common this predicament is, we asked some successful business owners to reflect back on whether they wish they had started sooner or waited for a better time.

Dr. Lauren Mandell

I honestly believe I started Evolution Mom at the perfect time. The idea came to me when I was truly ready for it—ready to take the leap and believe it could be done. Read more>>

Donika Syku

Looking back, I definitely wish I started my business sooner! I began Westchester Backdrops 3 and a half years ago while working full-time as an accountant. Accounting was a safe major in college and I had chosen it for job security but my true passion growing up was always art and anything that stimulated my creativity. Read more>>

Brianna Richardson

I do. I never saw myself being a business owner per se and only saw myself getting into aesthetics potentially once I had a family. But after working as a nurse through the pandemic everything changed for me. Read more>>

Juliana Holmes

I officially launched my wedding planning business in late 2019, I was beyond excited. I had poured my heart into the planning, built a wonderful relationship with the couple, and felt like I was finally stepping into the career I was meant for. Read more>>

Sherika Williams

Yes, I absolutely wish I had started my business earlier. Back when I was working as a Credit Card Manager at Wells Fargo, I had the stability of guaranteed income that I could have leveraged to invest more heavily into my business and into myself. Read more>>

Lizzie Fine

I have been an artist my whole life, and painting and drawing pretty music since the very beginning. I was so fortunate to have parents that supported my creative endeavors and encouraged me to take classes, learn my craft, and pursue a creative lifestyle. Read more>>

Mia Moore

Like all good things, burlesque happened at the exact right time. Before the art of the tease, I was a born performer; from living room dances for family, baton twirling awards at band camp, theatre, musical theatre, singing with bands and more. Read more>>

Sally Yu

I decided to become a conductor at the age of 24. As I see more and more conducting opportunities with age constraints—some masterclasses under 30, most competitions under 35 — I sometimes wish I had started conducting a bit sooner, so I wouldn’t constantly feel that I am behind. Read more>>

Samantha Caruso

If I could go back in time, I don’t think I would change anything with the timing of getting started with my baking business. If you asked me in college where I would see myself in 5-10 years, I never thought I would ever be known for baking cakes and setting up dessert displays or food styling. Read more>>