the biggest lessons i’ve learned running a creative agency
Running a creative agency is one of the most rewarding — and challenging — experiences of my life. It’s a mix of thinking outside of the box, strategy, business management, and client relationships. Over the last eight years, I’ve learned some invaluable lessons that have shaped how I run Little Lion Creative and serve my clients. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or agency owner, these lessons might just help you run a smoother business:
1. Boundaries Are Essential (and They Protect Everyone)
In the beginning, I wanted to be the most accommodating agency possible, with quick responses, unlimited revisions, and all-day availability. Big mistake. I quickly learned that without boundaries, burnout is inevitable. Now, I set clear expectations with:
Office hours & response times
A limit on revisions in contracts
Email-only communication (no late-night texts or social media DMs!)
Setting these boundaries actually improves client relationships because there’s clarity and professionalism from the start.
2. Not Every Client Is the Right Fit
Early on, I took on projects that didn’t align with my values just to fill my portfolio. The result? Stress, misalignment, and underpaid work. Now, I focus on attracting clients who align with my agency’s style, process, and pricing.
Learning to say no (or refer someone elsewhere) has saved me from unnecessary headaches and allowed me to focus on the work I actually love.
3. Systems & Processes Make Everything Smoother
When I started, most project felt chaotic. Between tracking emails, remembering client preferences, and managing timelines manually. It was exhausting. Once I implemented streamlined systems (automated invoices, CRM software, templates for proposals, and project management tools like Asana), things changed:
Fewer mistakes
Less back-and-forth
A better experience for both me and my clients
Having a clear workflow isn’t just about efficiency, it elevates the professionalism of your business.
4. Pricing Based on Value, Not Just Time
One of my biggest pricing mistakes was charging by the hour instead of the value of the work.
High-quality branding, marketing strategy, and website design aren’t just about time spent, they create real revenue and growth for businesses.
Once I shifted my pricing to reflect expertise, strategy, and results, I attracted better clients and stopped undercharging for my skills.
5. Your Brand Is Just as Important as Your Clients’ Brands
I spent so much time helping clients build their brands that I neglected my own. Your agency’s website, social media, and marketing matter just as much as your client projects. If you don’t invest in your brand, why should clients trust you with theirs?
Once I prioritized consistent content, a polished website, and strong messaging, I saw a dramatic increase in inquiries from my ideal clients.
Running a marketing and design agency is an ongoing learning experience. Some lessons came the hard way, but they’ve all helped me build a business that feels aligned, profitable, and fulfilling.
If you’re an entrepreneur or creative business owner, I hope these insights help you navigate your own journey. And if you’re looking for branding, marketing, or web design services, Little Lion Creative is here to help you grow your business the right way.