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Running a creative business isn’t just about having great ideas—it’s about navigating challenges with agility, vision, and resilience. When I co-founded Ardent Creative, Inc. in 2005, I had no idea how much I’d have to adapt, learn, and grow to keep the business thriving. Over the years, I’ve faced plenty of hurdles, from shifting industry trends to scaling a company beyond the freelancer mindset.
Through it all, I’ve learned that success in creative leadership isn’t just about skill—it’s about the values you build your business on. These four core values have been the foundation of my journey, helping me think around obstacles and push Ardent Creative forward.
1. Passion for Adaptation and Continuous Learning
I’ve always been passionate about art and creativity, but turning that passion into a sustainable business required me to constantly evolve. My career started with live painting and graphic design, but as the creative industry changed, I had to learn new skills—from digital marketing to web development to business strategy.
When Ardent Creative transitioned from a small team to a full-service agency, I quickly realized that sticking to what I knew wasn’t enough. I had to embrace change, seek out new knowledge, and stay curious. The creative industry moves fast, and if you’re not learning, you’re falling behind.
2. Integrity as a Business Foundation
From the beginning, I knew that trust and honesty had to be at the core of Ardent Creative. There were times when we faced tough decisions—whether it was turning down work that didn’t align with our values or making hard calls about team growth.
I’ve always believed that doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult, pays off in the long run. Our relationships with clients, employees, and partners are built on transparency, and that’s what has allowed us to maintain long-term success. When challenges arise, I rely on integrity as a guide—it’s the one thing that never leads you wrong.
3. The Power of Collaborative Relationships
One thing I’ve learned is that creativity doesn’t happen in isolation. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how strong relationships help businesses push through challenges. At Ardent Creative, we’ve built a culture of collaboration, and that’s been key to our growth.
Beyond my own team, I’ve also found that connecting with other agency owners and creatives is a game-changer. That’s why I co-founded Committed Mastermind, a community where marketing agency owners share ideas, learn from each other, and navigate challenges together. Surrounding yourself with smart, driven people is one of the best ways to solve problems and keep growing.
4. A Dedication to Community and Mentorship
Giving back has always been important to me. Whether it’s mentoring young designers, sharing insights with students at Texas Christian University (TCU), or supporting local businesses, I believe that helping others grow ultimately helps me grow too.
When I started out, I had mentors who helped me navigate the creative industry, and now, I want to do the same for others. Being involved in the community keeps me connected, inspired, and always learning from fresh perspectives.
Final Thoughts
Overcoming business challenges isn’t just about being talented—it’s about building a strong foundation of values. By embracing adaptability, integrity, collaboration, and community, I’ve been able to push past obstacles, inspire my team, and build a business that lasts.
No matter what challenges you face, staying true to your core values will always point you in the right direction.
