30 Projects, $200, and a Vision: My Year in Reflection
The mindset and milestones that shaped Crafted Studios this year.
Reflections, Lessons & Big Wins — Wrapping Up the Year with Gratitude
Good morning & Happy Holidays to you all —
I hope you've been enjoying some well-earned rest. I’ve been using this time to reflect, reset, and gear up for next year. It’s 4AM, it’s pouring outside, and I haven’t slept yet—not because I’m stressed, but because I’m genuinely excited for what’s ahead. I wanted to take a moment to share some key lessons I’ve learned stepping deeper into leadership this year, and some of the major highlights that remind me why I keep going.
Lessons I’m Taking Into the New Year
1. Invest in people—it comes back multiplied.
Whether it’s paying for a course, helping someone launch their own thing, or connecting them with an opportunity, pouring into people has brought everything full circle. This applies to my internal team, our partners, and extended collaborators. It’s not just business—it’s building an ecosystem that feeds itself with trust, skill, and mutual respect.
2. Vet people thoroughly—and say no with kindness.
This one was tough, and honestly expensive. I lost $15K and nearly lost a key client by ignoring red flags. Now? I’ve learned to trust my gut, respect my own boundaries, and be clear when something’s not a fit. “No” is a powerful word, especially when it protects your energy and your brand. Set up applications, do the skills tests—this isn’t being “extra,” it’s smart business.
A friend once told me, “every hire—even a temp—is a reflection of your brand.” I feel that now more than ever.
3. Define success on your own terms.
For a while, I felt like I wasn’t doing enough unless I was building “generational wealth.” I don’t know where that idea even came from—probably a scroll too deep on social. But here’s what I’ve realized: I don’t have kids, I’m not planning on that anytime soon, and I don’t need to operate from a vision that doesn’t reflect my present reality.
This year, I unplugged from the noise, cut my screen time to 15 minutes a day, and started listening to myself. That’s when everything started clicking. Your peace is your compass—follow it.
2021 Highlights
Partnerships
We teamed up with some incredible companies this year, including:
Cohere City
Pact Studio
Lever
Webflow
Yahoo RYOT Studios (Yahoo’s immersive experience team—crazy!)
We’re slowly stepping into the consultant role we’ve been manifesting, and I couldn’t be prouder.
Also, huge love to our extended Crafted Studios “fam”—a tight circle of founders and freelancers we trust and collaborate with often. Special shoutout to LaTecia of Visionary Rising for inspiring this post—appreciate you always.
Clients
This year we got to work with some dope brands. One of my favorites? Zest AI, a fintech company based in California.
Other honorable mentions:
Allegiant Air
FalconX (crypto trading)
Habito
Solstice Grown
In total, we wrapped up 30 projects. It’s not about the volume for me—it’s about the value. Quality > quantity, always.
Team Growth
We grew to a team of six, with plans to expand a little more next year. I’m aiming to stay lean, ideally no more than 8–10 people for now. If you’re a Webflow pro and want to join us, check out this Webflow Developer/Designer opening.
Personal Wins
I was featured in VoyageLA, where I got to share my journey, my values, and the story behind Crafted. The feedback from friends and fam reminded me of the impact we’re making—even when we don’t always see it right away.
Also, my resume site got nominated for an Awwward! It’s pacing for an Honorable Mention—which is wild considering I built it in a day. Check it out: dexterwjr.com
Final Thoughts
A few months ago, I had $200 to my name. People laughed at what I was building. Called it a “little side hustle.” Now look.
Trust yourself. Bet on yourself. None of the noise matters—just the voice in your head at 4AM, sketching out your next big move.
Appreciate you all deeply. Let’s keep building.
Much love & Happy New Year.
Talk soon,
–Dexter