Playing with contrast

I took some test shots to try for sharp eyes - a common critique problem with my other photos. I really like bumping contrast and playing with color levels for a more artsy feel rather than technically perfect, but I have LOTS to learn and would love some feedback.
Original, then altered photo.

I've found the best way to get sharp eyes is to use spot focus, focus on the eye and hold the focus with a half shutter press, and then compose before clicking.
No comment on your color and contrast above for it is not my style but the eyes aren't sharp.

Thats how I focus, and this eye is the sharpest of the bunch, so I guess I am SOL for the time being! lol. Thanks! :)

The eye looks sharp, no problem wtih that. I think the original is underexposed and the edited version is too high key and contrasty. I like the compsotion and framing but I think cropping this to an 8X10 format and losing some of the left sid ewould improve. An edit somewhere in between the original and this edit I feel would be best

Thanks Gary. Ive been playing around with this trying your suggestions but I keep falling asleep! :)