6 Months In: What I've learnt from running Optimum Creative Media

By Sam Bettany

It may be April Fools Day, but don't be fooled that incredibly it has already been six months since I launched Optimum Creative Media, and what a journey it's been.

Starting and running a solo creative business has brought freedom, fulfilment and a fair few challenges along the way.

In this post, I’m sharing an honest look at what I’ve learnt, from the highs, to the lows, and the lessons that came with both.

Creative Wins and Personal Growth

There’s a unique joy in building something from the ground up.

Some of the highlights so far include:

• Landing my first few partners

• Seeing brand ideas come to life exactly as imagined

• Having creative control without layers of approval

• Experiencing the buzz of positive client feedback

• Gaining clarity on the type of work I really love

These moments continue to remind me why I started this business in the first place.

Pressure, Uncertainty and the Struggle

But it hasn’t all been smooth.

The challenges of running a solo creative business are real:

• Wearing all the hats at once

• The mental load of decision-making and self-motivation

• Juggling client work with running the business itself

• Occasional self-doubt (especially during quieter periods)

No one really prepares you for how emotionally demanding self-employment can be.

It is routine, structure, positive feedback, and support systems that will help you best deal with this.

Things I Underestimated at the Start

Looking back, there were a few things I didn’t fully anticipate:

• How long it takes to build systems that work

• The importance of clear boundaries and saying no

• How difficult proposals can be at first

• The power of community and support, even as a solo

• How much your mindset affects your results

If you’re starting out, be patient with the learning curve.

It’s steep, but worth it.

Unexpected Wins and Positive Surprises

Not everything tough has stayed tough.

Some things clicked faster than expected:

• Getting clear on my ideal clients

• Building better daily routines and workflows

• Growing confidence in meetings and client management

• Seeing small wins stack up into real progress

• Learning to trust my creative instincts more deeply

These moments keep me going when self-doubt creeps in.

Advice I Would Give Someone

If you're at the beginning of your journey, here’s what I’d want you to know:

• Don’t wait until it’s perfect, just start

• Track your time early to understand your value

• Join communities or networks, even if you work solo

• Be proud of every small step, it's a step in the right direction

What’s Next for Optimum Creative Media

Now that the foundation is laid, I’m focusing on:

• Refining my client onboarding and workflows

• Being more intentional with marketing and content

• Continuing to build confidence as a business owner

The next six months feel full of potential, and I’m excited to see where they lead.

Final Thoughts

Running a solo creative business has been a rollercoaster, but one I wouldn't trade.

If you’re on a similar path or thinking about taking the leap, I hope this gives you insight and encouragement.

If you’re already running your own business, I’d love to hear what you’ve learnt along the way.

Could you be our next partner?

Are you a business owner in and around Leicestershire? We would love to collaborate and help bring your brand to life.

Get in touch with us via social media or complete a quick questionnaire and contact form on our website.

Let’s create something amazing together!