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From Corporate to Creative: Lessons Learned in Building a Successful Agency

When I think about the path that led me here—running Roop Creative Agency and empowering entrepreneurs to uncover their magic—it feels like a mosaic of unexpected opportunities, challenges, and life-changing aha moments.

corporate dropout, leave corporate job

If you’ve ever felt the itch to escape the corporate grind and turn your creativity into something extraordinary, this post is for you. Let me take you behind the scenes of my journey—from a spark of an idea to the freedom and fulfillment I have today.


Where It All Began

I always knew I was meant to work for myself, but back then, I didn’t know what that looked like. My journey began innocently enough—with a single party invitation for my parents’ 25th anniversary. Picture this: pre-Canva days when options were bleak, and a fresh design grad itching for a challenge.


That one project sparked a ripple effect.


Soon, I was designing wedding stationery alongside my corporate job, staying up late to chase deadlines. For 10 years, I nurtured this side hustle. A creative outlet, yes—but not something I dared to dream bigger with.


The real shift happened over coffee with an old high school friend. She’d started her own business and asked for my help with branding. What began as a casual conversation turned into something much bigger. I found myself diving deep into her story, helping her align her vision and bring it to life. And as I spoke, something lit up inside me.


At that moment, I realized: This is what I’m meant to do. That one coffee date planted the seed for Roop Creative Agency.


The Leap of Faith

Leaving corporate wasn’t easy. It meant trading stability for possibility—and that’s terrifying. But as scary as it was, I knew I couldn’t stay stuck in a world that didn’t fit me anymore.

There’s a moment when you realize staying where you are feels harder than leaping into the unknown. For me, that moment became the catalyst for change.


The Lessons I Took With Me

I won’t lie—corporate life wasn’t wasted. It was my training ground, teaching me lessons I carry to this day:

  • Respect deadlines and always deliver excellence.

  • Structure and systems are the backbone of every thriving business.

  • How not to run my business. Toxic leadership showed me exactly what I didn't want.

These lessons shaped how I run Roop Creative Agency—and how I teach others to build a business with heart and integrity.


The Challenges No One Talks About

Let’s get real: starting your own business isn’t all sunshine and sold-out launches. There’s a lot of grit behind the glamour—and these were some of my biggest hurdles:

  • Networking as an introvert felt like stepping into a whole new world. It wasn’t easy at first, but once I figured out my way to connect authentically, it became a game-changer.

  • Saying yes to underpaid gigs in the early days was humbling, but it got me out there. Each experience, no matter how small, helped me grow, build confidence, and refine my business.

  • Learning to outsource and streamline taught me to focus on what I love—and what I’m best at. Delegating tasks like admin work allowed me to stay in my creative zone and grow my business with intention.

It wasn’t perfect, but those struggles laid the foundation for the freedom and success I have now. And here’s the thing—every challenge is a stepping stone to something bigger.


I know what it’s like to look at your dreams and wonder if they’re possible. That’s why I created the Corporate Dropout Program—to help creatives like you turn that spark into something bigger.


This mentorship is designed for creatives like brand designers, web developers, and social media managers who are ready to build a thriving agency.


Here’s what’s inside:

  • Monthly 1:1 Virtual Calls for personalized, actionable guidance.

  • Unlimited Voxer Access so you’re never stuck spinning your wheels alone.

  • Clear Action Plans to keep you moving forward with confidence.


From refining your services to mastering client acquisition and scaling your agency, I’ll be there every step of the way.


The Reward of Taking the Leap

When I look at my life now, it feels like freedom.

  • Freedom to work on my own terms.

  • Freedom to say “yes” to the projects and clients that align with my values.

  • Freedom to create a legacy that reflects who I truly am.

Leaving corporate wasn’t just about building a business. It was about building a life. One that lets me pursue my passion, be a present mom, and empower others to rewrite their stories.


Are You Ready to Leap?

If you’ve been dreaming of turning your side hustle into a full-time creative agency, now’s the time. Let’s take that dream and make it real.


Join me in the Corporate Dropout: Mentorship for Creatives Program, and let’s build a business—and a life—that feels like you.


Your magic is waiting. Let’s make it happen.


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