We had the good fortune of connecting with Connor Eberhard and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Connor, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Numerous times have occurred when I have wanted to give up. You start asking yourself “Is this worth it?” “Am I taking on too much?” Or probably the most common is “Do I even have what it takes to do this?” You have to really sit back and evaluate yourself to make sure this is what you want. These moments are what separate the people that either have it or don’t. I have been given multiple chances to hang up the hat of long hours and the juggling act of everything that comes with being the owner of a business to change and work a lucrative nine to-five job. If growing a business is something you really want to do, you find that drive deep down to keep going. What helps me in tough times is thinking back to past struggles and how far I have come to reach this point. Realizing the struggles that I pushed through helps me appreciate the effort and recognize the reward of the present. Confidence grows by overcoming problems and hardships and it gives you the ability to overcome larger challenges in life. Problems can be viewed as negative, but if you change your perspective into positive thinking and look at them as learning opportunities then you will find yourself being a better person in the long run. Just remember, the only way to fail is to give up.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Eberhard Woodworks is a custom woodworking company that puts value in craftsmanship, creativity, and design. I started out in a cabinet shop doing the very basics of sanding and cleaning. As interest sparked, I progressed into more difficult tasks and honed my skills of the trade. Over time, I saw better or easier
systems of doing things and techniques that would improve the product and potentially make for a smoother and more profitable business. My mindset shifted from “how do I become the best employee” to the mindset of a business owner asking questions like “how do we serve the client better with the product we are providing” and “what areas are we lacking where we are losing potential profits.” I was spending a lot of time and energy on improvements for that company as an employee, which then inspired me to use that time and energy on building my own company. Being able to create custom furniture and custom cabinetry from raw materials and turn them into something that either brings a form of beauty and/or function to a space creates my inspiration. Creating quality pieces that are built to last is the backbone of Eberhard Woodworks. There is a lot of care and pride that goes into every product that is put out. The company is constantly growing and I am excited to see where it goes.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live close to Marietta square so I’m a big fan a lot of the restaurants and parks in the area. I would take them to the Red Eyed Mule for breakfast, they make an awesome biscuit and have delicious waffles. Kennesaw mountain isn’t far from me either so I would take them on an afternoon hike after breakfast, it is one of the best views in Georgia and you can see downtown Atlanta form the top. For lunch, I would go sit outside at La Cubana by the square and grab a drink to cool off and a cuban to refuel. There are numerous restaurants to pick from at the square from Taqueria Tsunami, Stockyard Burgers, and the wide array at the Marietta Market. One of the nights I would take them to a stand up comedy show at the Laughing Skull Lounge and get a Burger next door at the Vortex restaurant. The Georgia Aquarium is always a spectacle that I never get tired of, it is the largest aquarium in the United State. Of course the Varsity isn’t too far from there for lunch. I am a big fan of the Atlanta Zoo, it is the only zoo in the United States that has giant pandas. For a nice night on the town, I would go for a nice dinner and wine at Cut’s Steakhouse, you can’t beat the top tier quality of food they have there. To top off the visit I would take them to my favorite Italian restaurant, Mambos. You can’t beat the authentic italian quality of food for the price and they have a very relaxing atmosphere.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout the process of growing my company, I would have to thank the people that are close to me and the people that encouraged me to keep going. My friends, family, and close peers that were there to in the very least say I’m doing a good job or compliment my work. It goes a long way and it is much appreciated.
Instagram: Eberhard Woodworks
Other: EberhardWoodworks@gmail.com