Have you been slaving away at your day job while hustling your photography business on weekends? If so, then this post is for you!
The one thing I wish I had heard more when I was considering becoming a full-time photographer was:
YOU CAN DO IT!!
You CAN go full time, you CAN be successful, and YES, you CAN finally say you love the job you do!
I am so passionate about telling you this because I was once you. Scared and uncertain if I could, or should, take the plunge and become a full-time photographer. I was told more times than I care to remember that it would be too hard, too risky and that I couldn’t do it.
And do you want to know why others may discourage you from pursuing your dream?
It’s not because they don’t care. Most people are too scared to go after their own dreams, because they’re afraid they cannot do the thing they dream of doing.
So, if they don’t believe they can chase their own dreams, why would they think you can?
Believing that you CAN do something is a powerful way to manifest your dreams into reality!
I’m telling you this because I know that it’s true! I have done it, and have seen many others do it too. I made 60k my first year working as a photographer full time, and I was still in college part-time then (imagine if I was not in college). Getting a taste of what it would be like to do what I dreamed of doing, is what made me abandon the college path so I could continue to do what I loved.
Here’s the deal. I believe in education for some, and know that school has changed my life. However, I don’t believe in going after what is not destined for me. Being in school never felt right to me. What feels right is doing what I am doing right now.
So, how do you find out what is right for you?
Self-reflection is the most important step toward figuring it out. Spend some time alone and reflect on your dreams, your skills, and what truly gives you joy. Bring a notebook, sit outside, and spend time with yourself.
I know, weird request to ask you to spend MORE time alone, after this past year, right?
We are so accustomed to always being on the go but, it’s essential to carve out some quality time with yourself to self-reflect on your life’s path.
Since I don’t get to have “me” time very often, I self-reflect while I’m in the shower, or cooking dinner. Even with a busy schedule, it’s important to check in with yourself from time to time.
Trying new things and stepping a little outside of your comfort zone will help guide you toward where you’re supposed to be.
I tried school; the career wasn’t a fit. I tried boudoir photography, didn’t care for it. You just gotta keep trying until something fits. When it fits, you will feel it, I promise!
Let this post be a reminder that you shouldn’t be afraid of chasing your dreams, take the plunge! I have been there, I did it, and I know that you can do it, too!
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