For those of you relatively new to the industry, two days ago was my 42nd anniversary in the photo industry and even after all these years, I still have days when I’m just on overload.  So, the next time you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, remember you’re in good company with virtually everybody in photography and for that matter everybody in business! 

From business author, Jim Collins:  “The kind of commitment I find among the best performers across virtually every field is a single-minded passion for what they do, an unwavering desire for excellence in the way they think and the way they work. Genuine confidence is what launches you out of bed in the morning, and through your day with a spring in your step.”

Napoleon Hill: “Do not wait; the time will never be “just right.” Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.”

And, from one of my favorites, Zig Ziglar I’ve got two:  “You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” 

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing.. that’s why we recommend it daily.”

Make it a great day and let it lead you into a great weekend!  Hug your family, your kids and your friends and most important of all take the time to give yourself a pat on the back! You’re a photographer, the ultimate storyteller, working every day to be better than you were the day before!

A couple of days ago there was a great blog written by Jim Collins, CEO of Pictage.  Here’s the fun thing about Jim, first, throw out the title.  The guy couldn’t be more approachable.  Second, when Jim says he’s there to help, he really means it, but don’t expect anything to be sugar coated!  

Jim put it best when he wrote:

“This week we’re going to get personal. For some of you, this will definitely be a “Big Boy Pants” conversation, at least if you’re taking it seriously. (those who’ve read my stuff for a while know that when I’m going to say something I know will hurt, I always preface it by asking you to put on your Big Boy Pants. This is not a sexist comment…)”

He tells it like it is and while some of what he talks about might be pretty hard to hear – you couldn’t ask for a member of the industry with more optimism or willingness to be involved!   Take the time to read his blog .  If you fit the profile and need an attitude adjustment, consider all the things in your power to change and then pay careful attention to Jim’s last paragraph:

“Tomorrow is a new day. If you’re serious about success then get serious about reinvigorating your business. Make your next client meeting your best ever. Perseverance is the key to success in any small business. Even for those who have “made it” the marketplace changes so quickly that they must continue to grow and change or they will quickly be irrelevant. There is no judgement for falling behind. There is only judgement for staying there.  That judgement is rendered when the market leaves you behind and your business fails.  

For the rest of you, Onward! If you’re willing to do the work you can achieve your reward. I’m here to help. Literally. It’s my job.”