One of the best things about video games is the ability to restart – you can use your learnings to move faster and avoid obstacles. We often think about what we would do differently if we were starting over in business and we figured others probably think about this as well and so we asked the community to share their thoughts with us.

Brittany Rowe

If I could hit rewind and start over, I’d dive in headfirst, camera in hand, and let the real-world experience do the teaching. I spent far too many hours watching YouTube tutorials, hoping to absorb everything before I felt ‘ready.’ Looking back, I realize the magic happens when you’re out there, capturing moments and learning as you go. ReadMore>>

Gernae Alexander

If I had to start my business from scratch, I’d keep things super simple and focus on 4 pillars.

1. Message: I’d get in touch with the people I want to serve to truly understand their needs and desires. I’d use that information to refine my brand message and make sure it was niched to speak directly to this audience. I’d write down positioning statements that were clear, concise and compelling to help me articulate the value of my offer. Read More>>

Stevee Elchynski

If I were starting out as a new photographer in my area, I would definitely approach things differently. I’d dive into educational opportunities, seeking out in-person mentorships or enrolling in online courses to really hone my craft. I’d also make sure to have contracts in place early on to protect both my interests and my clients’ rights, ensuring a clear understanding from the start. Read More>>

Edie O’brien

If I could start over in my business journey, the first thing I would do is invest in a mentor or coach to guide me through the setup process. For years, I was “winging it,” figuring things out as I went. While I’ve built a successful six-figure business, having that support early on would have saved me from many avoidable (and costly) mistakes and allowed me to reach this level of success much sooner—and with less stress. I’d also prioritize learning sales and implementing systems right from the start. Read More>>

Kelsey O’toole

I would start earlier! It wasn’t until I turned 30 that I allowed myself to fully embrace my creative side and think beyond traditional paths. Before that, I wove small creative moments into my work. When Connecticut Kelsey came to life, I began challenging myself to think boldly, inspire others to explore new possibilities, and serve as a resource for Connecticut’s movers and shakers. Read More>>