We recently connected with Roy Patterson and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Roy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

Success isn’t measured by the size of your portfolio, the accolades on your shelf, or the approval of others. It’s something deeply personal—woven into the fabric of each day and the energy you pour into your work and relationships. As a creative director and color specialist, I’ve come to learn that the best investment I’ve ever made has been in time—time dedicated to learning, growing, and showing up for myself and my craft.

Let me take you back to a moment early in my career when I faced a pivotal decision. I was working tirelessly, pouring my heart into projects, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. I realized I was so focused on perfection that I wasn’t giving myself the space to listen, to adapt, or to truly evaluate my work from a fresh perspective. I was stuck in the loop of doing rather than learning.

It was during a particularly challenging project, one with impossible deadlines and a team looking to me for direction, that I hit a wall. A major misstep in our color strategy forced me to pause and reassess everything. I was mortified, but rather than letting the mistake define me, I chose to view it as a turning point. I decided to invest—not just money, but my most valuable resource: my time.

I began carving out time each week to reflect on my work. I sought out courses, workshops, and mentors who could help me deepen my understanding of both the technical and emotional aspects of creative direction. I became obsessed with staying current—not just in trends but in mindset. Being present in every moment became my mantra. I started asking better questions, listening more intently to my clients and my team, and allowing flexibility to shape my decisions. Most importantly, I gave myself permission to learn from mistakes and use them as stepping stones to greater creativity and innovation.

This investment paid off in ways I couldn’t have imagined. My confidence grew—not from an absence of mistakes but from the ability to navigate through them with grace. My relationships with clients became more collaborative. My work began to carry an authenticity and vibrancy that resonated far beyond what I had achieved before.

The lessons were invaluable. I learned that success isn’t found in a moment; it’s built through consistency and care. It’s about showing up every day with a willingness to grow and a passion for excellence. It’s about measuring your progress by the standards you set for yourself, not by external validation.

So, what’s the best investment I’ve made? It’s the decision to treat every moment, every mistake, and every success as an opportunity to learn and evolve. Growth isn’t a destination; it’s a journey—and I’m grateful to be walking it with passion, presence, and purpose.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As a proud gay, Latino, first-generation Mexican-American immigrant based in the vibrant heart of New York City, I have a rich past that fuels my present. My journey as a creative director, conceptual creative, and brand magician has been anything but conventional, but it’s precisely this unconventional path that shaped the unique perspective I bring to my craft. From my beginnings as a dancer, actor, and choreographer to my evolution as a multifaceted creative professional, every step of my journey has been fueled by passion, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of creativity to inspire change.

I’ve built a career around creating solutions that not only meet the needs of my clients but elevate their visions to new heights. My expertise spans branding, visual identities, corporate branding systems, editorial and web design, social media strategy and execution, content creation, event design, and interior design. Every project I take on is approached with intention, precision, and a deep commitment to making a lasting impact.

My roots in performing arts provided the foundation for my creative journey. As a performer, I learned to convey stories through movement, expression, and collaboration. These experiences taught me how to connect with audiences on a visceral level, an invaluable skill that I carry into my creative work today.

After earning a double major in Communications and Performing Arts, I pursued a Master of Science in Marketing and another in Project Management. These academic achievements gave me the tools to combine creativity with strategy, allowing me to approach projects with both a visionary and practical mindset.

My transition into creative direction came naturally as I discovered a passion for shaping not just campaigns but the larger identities and systems behind them. Each role I’ve taken on has reinforced my belief in the importance of diversity, inclusion, and representation—not just as ideals, but as actionable components of my work.

What I’m most proud of isn’t a single project or accolade—it’s the trust my clients place in me. Each collaboration is a testament to the relationships I’ve built and the impact my work has had. I’m also proud of the tangible change I’ve been able to inspire within teams and organizations, fostering environments that prioritize authenticity, respect, and innovation.

If you’re looking for someone who will pour their heart and soul into your vision, someone who values excellence as much as connection, and someone who will go above and beyond to craft something truly unique—then I’m your person.

For me, creativity isn’t just a skill; it’s a way of life. It’s how I connect with the world and how I make change possible, one project at a time. Whether you’re a potential client, collaborator, or follower, I want you to know that I’m here to make an impact—not just through the work I create but through the relationships I build along the way.
Change is possible. Change is powerful. And I’m here to make it happen.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team and keeping morale high isn’t just about setting goals or checking off tasks—it’s about creating an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and inspired to bring their best selves to the table every day. As someone who has led teams across creative, corporate, and event-based industries, I’ve learned that great leadership is rooted in empathy, communication, and a shared sense of purpose. Here’s my advice:

Always Lead with Empathy and Authenticity…

Every team is made up of individuals with unique strengths, challenges, and perspectives. Take the time to understand what drives each person—what motivates them, what challenges they face, and what support they need to thrive. By leading with empathy and authenticity, you create a foundation of trust and respect. When team members feel seen and heard, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to the collective mission.

Create a Culture of Open Communication…

Transparent communication is the backbone of a successful team. Encourage open dialogue where ideas, questions, and feedback are welcomed without fear of judgment. Regular check-ins, both one-on-one and as a group, can help ensure that everyone feels aligned and supported. Remember, communication isn’t just about talking—it’s about listening actively and responding thoughtfully.

Set Clear Goals, But Stay Flexible…

People perform best when they understand what’s expected of them, but life and creativity often require adaptability. Set clear, measurable goals for your team while remaining open to adjustments when challenges or new opportunities arise. Flexibility shows your team that you value their input and are willing to evolve alongside them.

Celebrate Wins—Big and Small…

Recognition is a powerful motivator. Celebrate successes, whether it’s a major project milestone or an individual’s creative breakthrough. Publicly acknowledge your team’s hard work and contributions, and make it a point to thank them personally. It’s the small gestures of gratitude that often leave the most lasting impact.

Encourage Growth and Learning…

High morale comes from feeling a sense of progress and purpose. Invest in your team’s growth by providing opportunities for professional development, whether through workshops, mentorship, or access to resources. When you show that you’re invested in their future, team members feel valued and motivated to keep pushing forward.

Foster a Positive and Inclusive Environment…
A team thrives when everyone feels included and respected. Encourage diversity of thought and ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Small but impactful changes—like using personal pronouns in name tags or signature lines—can make a big difference in creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.

Prioritize Work-Life Balance…

Burnout is a morale killer. Encourage your team to take breaks, set boundaries, and prioritize their well-being. Lead by example—if your team sees you respecting your own work-life balance, they’ll feel empowered to do the same.

At the heart of team management is this simple truth: people want to feel valued and connected. When you lead with purpose, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your team’s success, morale will naturally thrive. A high-performing team isn’t just built on talent or resources—it’s built on trust, respect, and shared passion for what you’re creating together.
Morale isn’t just a mood; it’s the heartbeat of your team. Keep it strong, and you’ll create something extraordinary.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey has always followed my passion for creative evolution, diversity, and inclusion in the world, and the mission of helping create a better world every day. At my core, I help businesses and individuals tell their stories authentically. Whether it’s designing a cohesive visual identity, crafting a compelling editorial spread, or planning a multi-dimensional event, my work is about creating connections.

For businesses, I offer branding solutions that resonate deeply with their audiences. I develop style guides and systems that ensure consistency while leaving room for creativity. I help clients navigate the ever-evolving landscape of social media with strategies that are both effective and authentic. And for those looking to create memorable spaces, I design interiors that feel both functional and inspiring.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine technical expertise with emotional intelligence. I don’t just create for the sake of creating—I listen. I dive into the heart of my clients’ challenges, understanding their goals and values before crafting solutions. My work doesn’t just solve problems; it reflects the essence of who my clients are and what they stand for.

As a proud advocate for diversity and inclusion, I bring a perspective to my work that prioritizes representation. One of the initiatives I’m most proud of was the introduction of personal pronoun usage across signature lines, name tags, and other self-identifiable items for a project I led. This small yet impactful change created an environment where every team member and client felt seen, valued, and respected.

I’m also deeply committed to staying at the forefront of my industry, blending the latest trends with timeless principles. Whether I’m collaborating on a branding project or designing a social media campaign, I approach every task with the same philosophy: be current, be present, and be flexible.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.roypatterson.net
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/roy_fer/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/roy-patterson-a08b90218/