Helping more people thrive doing what they love or are passionate about means helping more folks learn from those who came before them and so we asked successful entrepreneurs, artists and creatives to tell us what they would do differently, knowing what they know now, if they were starting over.

Shirah Clark

Looking back over the last year, I would have had a honed in on a specific aspect of our business and stayed laser focused there until it was more self-sustaining. And then I would have tackled the next vision or goal and grow that into a self-sufficient space, and so on. My mistake was that looking for every chance to say “yes” and that often stretched my team, my resources, and myself far too thin. I love the idea of growing and thinking outside of the box, but I see now, that it was more harmful than helpful. We dropped balls and missed the mark on a few big orders because we were pulled in so many directions. I am grateful to have had some very gracious clients, but I recognize that were didn’t live up to our Mission of making hosting less stressful. Read more>>

Alete’ Dotson

If I were to rebuild my business from the ground up, my first step would be a deep dive into market research to pinpoint a core pain point my target audience consistently faces. I’d focus on solving that one key challenge, crafting a tailored offer that addresses it directly. I would then establish two strategic content pillars centered around this topic and an additional one focused on my brand, creating a streamlined message that resonates with my ideal clients. Read more>>

Tawny Nalley

Looking Back: Lessons From My First Year in Newborn Photography As a professional newborn photographer who launched my business in early 2024, I’ve learned valuable lessons that would have made my journey smoother. While I’m proud of where I am today, here’s what I would do differently if I were starting over: Invest in Education Before Equipment. I initially focused too much on having the perfect camera setup and props. In retrospect, I would first invest in specialized newborn safety training and posing workshops. The safety and comfort of these tiny clients is paramount, and no amount of expensive gear can replace proper training. Read more>>

Sharmayne Crockett

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a co-owner of this business, especially while working alongside my mother, is how important it is to focus on one product before trying to do too much at once. In the early days, we spread ourselves too thin by exploring different jewelry lines simultaneously, which confused our brand and wasted resources. If I could start over, I would prioritize perfecting one product first. This focused approach would allow us to truly understand customer preferences, refine our designs, and ensure high-quality production. Building a strong brand identity around a single product would help establish trust and recognition in the market. Read more>>

Sani Mohammed

From a technical standpoint, I wouldn’t alter the progression. Looking back over the years to witness the growth in skill and evolution is valuable. However, I would change my mentality. Initially, I was in my own head and was unsure how to expand beyond my campus. If I could start over, I wouldn’t confine myself so strictly to A&T. Despite this self-imposed limitation, I often compared my work to other creators, feeling as though my work wasn’t valid because I wasn’t operating at their level. I wish I had realized sooner that comparison is the thief of joy, and that I needed to focus on my own path. The time spent worrying about others could have been better used in collaborating with others and getting experience. Read more>>

Erick Lindsey Jr

If I knew what I know Today I will tell myself to keep going Regardless if I failed. Continue to pray Faithfully. No one is going to save me but ME. Stay private. Peace is more important. The Choice Is Yours Read more>>