We were lucky to catch up with Cheryl Bever recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Cheryl, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
It’s funny—I’ve never really thought of myself as an optimistic person, especially during my teenage years (because, honestly, who is? 😂). But looking back, I realize I’ve always had a spark of optimism, even when it wasn’t always the healthiest kind.
I once found myself in an emotionally abusive relationship. Instead of letting it bring me down, I clung to the belief that “things will get better when…” That optimism, though well-intentioned, kept me stuck for longer than I’d like to admit. It wasn’t until I had my son that my entire perspective on life shifted. Suddenly, I wasn’t just living for myself; I had this new, tiny person depending on me. That was the moment I saw my situation clearly and made the changes I needed for both of us.
Becoming a parent truly changes everything. People say that, and it sounds cliché, but, trust me, it’s so real. Having my son gave me the chance to re-experience life through his eyes—the joy in simple things, the wonder in every discovery no matter how small, I still have a vase full of rocks that he would find and give to me. It reminded me how exciting life can be if you let it.
Since then, I’ve made a conscious effort to embrace life, even when it’s messy or challenging. When things go wrong, I try to see it as an opportunity—a chance to adapt and create something even better. I’ve learned to accept that life doesn’t always go as planned, and that that’s okay. Letting go of perfectionism has freed me from so much unnecessary pressure and allowed me to focus on what really matters.
I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have a supportive network of friends and family. Their love and encouragement keep me grounded and hopeful. And honestly, celebrating other people’s happiness keeps me optimistic, too. There’s something so powerful about sharing in someone else’s joy—it’s contagious in the best way.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am the owner of CMB Image + Design, an independent creative studio specializing in print design, marketing design, and product photography. My passion lies in helping small business owners—that wear too many hats—bring their brand, services, and/or products to life through compelling visuals.
Beyond my work, I’m an active member of the Chicago Graphic Design Club, a community that has reignited my energy and creativity. I contribute by facilitating thoughtful conversations on the club’s Discord channel, crafting the club’s newsletters, and enthusiastically championing their mission. It’s my way of giving back to a community that continues to inspire me.
When I’m not in the studio, you’ll likely find me at the baseball field, cheering on my son at his games (or driving to and from said games, practices and the like). I also love supporting my husband at his art shows and gallery openings—and serving as a cozy napping spot for my two cats.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Stay flexible! It is easy to get caught in a path because you think it is the path you are supposed to take to have the career, life you want. But no path is ever straight and sometimes it will take you the weirdest directions. Have faith in the fact that it is leading you in the right direction, perhaps to an outcome you never expected or thought of.
Do the things that scare the sh+t out of you. For as long as I can remember, I despise speaking in front of people or being interviewed. But this is my 3rd interview and I have spoken in front of people numerous times, even been a guest on several podcasts. I wouldn’t say I enjoy it yet, but I am getting less hung up about sounding stupid or hating the sound of my voice. Every time I have done something like this that scares me or gives me anxiety, after I realize I didn’t die or nothing bad happened, I gain a bit more confidence in myself which has helped me grow and be more willing to try new things.
This might play off doing things that scare you, but don’t be afraid to say YES to things you don’t think you can do. It will force you to try and even if it doesn’t turn out perfect, you have gained that experience and learned from it.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I have been so blessed with having parents that continuously support me in all of my crazy ideas. When I told them that I was going to quit my reliable full time job to embark on the path of owning my own business, instead of telling me how it might be a bad idea or all the reasons to NOT do this, they were genuinely excited for me and have cheered me on all along the way. They trust that I have exhausted all of the pros and cons of the situation and made an educated choice even if the outcome is unclear. So trust and support me are the most impactful things that my parents did and continue to do for me. ♥️
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cmbimageanddesign.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmbimageanddesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cmbimageanddesign
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbimageanddesign/
- Other: Spotify: Pocasts & Interviews I have participated in.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3rUzqVaLgwReYdlR75ESce?si=UqkUd99PTVOFu3t4FsswDA
Image Credits
Main photo & Flag Photo are by Cenìnye
Photo of me presenting is by Jeffrey Hitchens
The rest are just by friends or me on our phones.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
