This month marks CFID’s sixth year in business. This fall is also my 25th year in the design business. Whenever these anniversaries roll around, I find myself reflecting on the journey – what’s changed and what will never change.
This business is as busy and crazy as ever, which is just the way I like it. The challenging pace and the constant juggling keeps me fully engaged. I wouldn’t want to work any other way. It’s a big reason why I love the design business.
On the other hand, I’ve gotten more comfortable in my own skin. I know the kind of projects I enjoy and the kind where I deliver the most value. So my focus is on finding those projects, not going after everything that comes along. There’s a real peace and power in getting to this place, and I feel blessed to have reached the point in my career where I can acknowledge this intention and act on it.
My approach to design projects has changed, too. I’ve always believed it’s a designer’s job to push the client to expand their vision and not just play it safe. I still believe that. But with experience, I’ve also learned that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, and sometimes what seems quirky or odd to me is important to the client. My approach now is to help clients highlight these parts of the project in a way that makes them successful.
One thing that hasn’t changed: my belief that relationships are the most important part of this business. If you do right by people, they will almost always do right by you. They’ll recommend your business, and they’ll work with you again. It’s a pretty straightforward formula for success, and it’s definitely CFID’s North Star as we create spaces for people to enjoy.
To my colleagues, clients, friends and especially to my family, thanks for being part of CFID’s journey – and my own. None of my success would be possible without you.