Ambition vs. Exhaustion

Burnout doesn’t announce itself with a dramatic crash. It creeps in quietly, like a slow leak, draining energy drop by drop until there’s nothing left. At first, it’s just a little extra exhaustion at the end of the day, a little less patience, and a bit more caffeine than usual. But then, the mornings become heavier, and the personal work to change my current struggles that once felt fulfilling starts to feel like a weight pressing down, feeling like I am just a NPC in this game.

For the past few years, I’ve been relentless in my focus of growth/leveling up, refining my craft, and pushing myself to be better in every way. I want to do good and be better, Whether it was deepening my expertise in digital marketing, my storytelling skills, or mastering the nuances of the outdoor and firearms industry, I kept raising the bar in any ounce of knowledge there is to absorb. Every project, every challenge, every late night felt like an investment in the future. But somewhere along the way, the grind recently has started to take more than it gave, especially since I am reduced to things that would help give me a break or have a soft landing. I have no outlet.

Now, navigating the uncertainty of finding the right job adds another layer of weight. The pressure to keep moving forward, to prove myself, to land the right opportunity. . . it’s constant. Each application, each networking call, each strategic move is another energy demand that already feels stretched too thin. The passion that once fueled long hours and creative problem solving is still there, but it's buried under exhaustion with the added finacal stress. Motivation dwindles, not because the work is meaningless, but because the energy to care about it has run dry

This phase of burnout doesn’t just take energy . . . it’s stealing my clarity and inspiration. It blurs the line between what matters and what doesn’t, making everything feel both overwhelming and pointless at the same time. The body protests with headaches, restless nights, and a constant, aching fatigue. The mind follows suit, weighed down by frustration, irritability, and a quiet but persistent hopelessness. Then the other side is discipline because my feelings don’t matter, only my actions do, and per usual, I need to suck it up and put the blinders on. My constant connection with fight or flight, I know nothing different.

Which is the voice that says, “You should be able to handle this. Everyone else does.” The fear of letting others down. The belief is that pushing harder is the only way forward. But the harder the push, the deeper the spiral.

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. It starts with acknowledging the exhaustion for what it is, not weakness, not failure, but a signal that something is unsustainable. It means stepping back, reevaluating priorities, and allowing space to rest, even when rest feels unearned. It means finding the courage to set boundaries, ask for help, and reconnect with the things that once brought joy. It means recognizing that growth isn’t just about constant motion, it’s also about sustainability. And at the moment, I don’t have that luxury.

Burnout is not an end because I refuse that, but it’s a warning sign. A sign that something has to change. And with time, space, and care, it’s possible to reignite the spark that once made the work feel worth it. The next step isn’t about pushing harder it’s about pushing smarter, making space for both ambition and well-being, and trusting that all the effort invested over the years won’t go to waste.

Posting and Ghosting

One truth remains constant with Social Media: Engagement is key. In the transition from 2003 to 2025, the start of Social Media into the developing roles of a Social Media Manager has transformed dramatically. Gone are the days when posting content was sufficient. It’s not just about the quantity of posts but the quality of interactions that build a thriving community.

The Era of Posting and Ghosting

Let's first define what it means to "post and ghost." Many brands, in their quest for visibility, will post content and then disappear, failing to engage with their audience. This method may seem convenient, especially for teams stretched thin or dealing with limited resources, but it is ultimately detrimental.

Imagine this scenario: a brand posts a beautifully crafted image of their product, accompanied by a witty caption that reflects their brand voice. But instead of sticking around to respond to comments or engage in conversations, they vanish, leaving followers hanging. This approach not only undermines the potential for building relationships but also communicates a disinterest in the very community they aim to cultivate. Followers may begin to feel like mere numbers on a screen rather than valued members of a brand’s community.

The Ripple Effect of Engagement

Engagement is more than just replying to comments; it’s about understanding your audience’s needs, interests, and pain points. It’s about creating a dialogue that goes beyond the initial post. Brands that thrive are those that embrace the art of conversation. They ask questions, seek feedback, and genuinely listen to their audience. This two-way interaction fosters loyalty and trust, which are invaluable in today’s competitive market.

When brands actively engage with their community, they receive insights that can inform product development, marketing strategies, and overall brand positioning. A simple question like, “What features would you like to see in our next product?” can yield valuable information that guides future innovations. This level of engagement not only enhances the customer experience but also positions the brand as a thought leader in their industry.

Building a Community: The Long Game

It’s easy to focus on immediate sales and quick wins. However, brands that prioritize community-building reap long-term rewards. A loyal community acts as a brand’s advocates, spreading the word and creating organic buzz. They’re more likely to share content, recommend products, and defend the brand in times of crisis.

Additionally, building a sense of belonging creates emotional ties between the brand and its followers. When consumers feel connected to a brand, they’re more likely to remain loyal even in the face of competition. This emotional connection can translate into higher lifetime value and reduced churn rates.

The Evolution of Social Media Management

As we look towards 2025, the role of a Social Media Manager is increasingly multifaceted. It requires a blend of skills, including copywriting, graphic design, video editing, data tracking, and—most importantly—community management. Brands are beginning to recognize that social media is not merely a broadcast channel but a vibrant ecosystem where relationships are nurtured.

Investing in community management means hiring skilled professionals who understand the nuances of proper engagement and can navigate the complexities of online interactions. It’s about creating a strategy that prioritizes meaningful content and authentic connections over superficial metrics like likes and shares.

From Posting to Connecting

The shift from “posting and ghosting” to active engagement and community building is essential for brands aiming to thrive in 2025 and beyond. As social media professionals, it is our responsibility to care for relationships that go beyond transactions.

Prioritize the power of engagement, listen to our communities, and create content that resonates with our audience. By doing so, we not only enhance our brand’s reputation but also create a loyal following that will champion us in the ever-expanding digital landscape.

Remember, it’s not about how many followers you have but how many of them genuinely feel connected to your brand. Let’s commit to being present, engaging authentically, and building communities that last.

Why Credibility and Consistency Matter in Life and Business

Credibility and consistency aren't just business strategies, they’re a way of living. How you show up in every aspect of your life, both personally and professionally, directly shapes your reputation, your brand, and the relationships you build.

• In Your Personal Life: Being credible and consistent in your relationships builds trust and respect. When your actions align with your words, people know they can rely on you. That personal integrity naturally flows into your professional life, reinforcing your character and influencing how people perceive you.

• In Your Professional Life: Whether you’re leading a team, teaching a skill, or building a company, credibility makes people listen, and consistency makes them stay. Colleagues, clients, and partners want to work with someone who’s not only knowledgeable but dependable. It’s through showing up consistently — in meetings, on projects, and in tough moments — that you earn lasting respect.

• In Person: The way you carry yourself, the energy you bring, and the way you treat people in real life leaves a lasting impression. People remember honesty, kindness, and follow-through. When your in-person presence reflects the same values you project online, it solidifies your authenticity.

• Digitally: Your online presence is often the first impression people get of you or your brand. Posting sporadically, jumping on trends that don’t align with your values, or presenting an image that doesn’t match who you are offline creates disconnect and erodes trust. But by consistently sharing valuable content, engaging with your audience, and staying true to your voice, you build credibility over time — turning followers into a loyal community.

Why This Matters for Your Brand:
Your brand is an extension of you. People don’t just buy products or services; they buy trust, belief, and connection. When you’re credible and consistent across every touchpoint, your market learns they can count on you. They start to see your brand not as a company but as a reliable partner. This trust turns into customer loyalty, word-of-mouth referrals, and long-term growth.

Why This Matters for Relationships:
Whether it’s a customer, a business partner, or a personal connection, relationships thrive on trust. And trust is built through repeated proof that you are who you say you are. When you’re consistent in your values, communication, and actions, you create safe, dependable relationships that withstand challenges and deepen over time.

Living with credibility and consistency (across every facet of life) creates alignment. It means you never have to "switch personas" or remember what version of yourself you showed up as. Instead, you build a rock-solid foundation that fuels every relationship, every opportunity, and every success.

Failure Is Just Feedback—Use It

My big annoying buzz word over the last few weeks is “data” 🧐 and if we have talked I've probably used it more times than I should . . .

Anything that doesn’t work is data. How you use that data will create something that works, it’s a powerful mindset shift that reframes failure, setbacks, and unexpected outcomes as opportunities for learning and innovation.

So here we go

The Core Idea: Failure ≠ Defeat
- "What doesn’t work is data": Every misstep, flawed result, or "failure" is not a dead end, it’s valuable information. Instead of judging it as “bad,” treat it as neutral feedback.

How to Turn "What Doesn’t Work" into Progress
Step 1: Collect the Data
Ask:
- What exactly didn’t work? (Be specific.)
- What variables were in play? (Timing, audience, execution, assumptions.)
- What did I expect vs. what actually happened?

Step 2: Analyze Without Judgment
- Avoid blame or shame. Instead, dissect the data:
- Was the idea flawed, or was the execution poor?
- Did external factors (timing, competition, resources) play a role?
- What patterns or surprises emerged?

Step 3: Iterate Strategically  (very on brand with my life right now)
- Use the data to pivot, refine, or rebuild.
Pivot: If a product feature isn’t resonating, redesign it based on user feedback.
Refine: If a relationship conflict arose, adjust your communication style.
Rebuild: If a business model fails, use the lessons to create a new one.

Step 4: Test Again
- Apply the revised approach and repeat the process. Each cycle gets you closer to “what works.”

Real-World Applications
In Business
- Example: A startup’s app gets low downloads.
- Data: Users find the onboarding process confusing.
- Action: Simplify the idea/product/xyz and test again.

In Personal Growth
- Example: You set a goal to exercise daily but burn out after a week.
- Data: Your routine was too rigid.
- Action: Switch to a flexible schedule with rest days. You're looking for consistency!

Why This Mindset Works
Removes Fear of Failure: When you see setbacks as data, you’re less afraid to take risks.
Accelerates Learning: Each "failure" becomes a lesson, shortening the path to success.
Encourages Creativity: Constraints and unexpected results often lead to breakthroughs.

Key Questions to Ask When Things Don’t Work
- What did I learn about what doesn’t work?
- What assumptions did I make that were proven wrong?
- What small success or hint of progress did emerge?
- How can I use this data to refine my next attempt?

The difference between stagnation and growth lies in how you interpret and use "failures." By treating them as data, you transform dead ends into stepping stones. The goal isn’t to avoid mistakes, it’s to mine them for insights.

Now what was that Thomas Gates quote, quoting Thomas Edison 🙃 🙂

Hello Show Season

With so much noise out there as we are in show season here’s a huge reminder as you and your team are building out content and strategy for 2025. Keep focusing on the genuine connections and building authentic storytelling.

Some things to keep in mind

- Focus on Real Connections, Not Just Going Viral

Going viral is cool for a hot minute, but it doesn't build a brand, please get rid of this idea. It’s not 2020 Tik Tok boom. Instead of chasing trends, focus on creating content that your audience cares about. It’s way better to have a community of 1,000 engaged followers than a million who just scroll past. Build relationships, respond to comments, and keep the conversation going. Trust me, that’s what keeps people coming back.

- Start with Organic Content

When you're getting your footing, lean into organic content. Show what you’re already doing—whether it’s a day out in the field or tips from your latest hunt, new products coming in, opportunities you are offering, xyz. Turn those produced moments and everyday moments into stories that resonate. And don’t shy away from recycling your best posts. Most of your followers didn’t see it the first time, and it’s okay to share it again!

- Get Creative with Multimedia

People want more than just text and photos. Run with videos, podcasts, and live streams to really connect with your audience. Share stories that show the heart of your brand and get people involved. Make it interactive! Ask questions, run polls, or share behind-the-scenes content. The more you engage, the more your audience will stick around. Use what social media is giving you.

- Keep Your Messaging Simple

Clarity is key. A confused mind says ‘NO’. If your audience is confused about what you’re offering, they’re going to bail. Simplify options and be clear about how your products can help them. Don’t overwhelm folks with choices—get straight to the point about what you do and why it matters.

- Build a Team That Brings Different Skills to the Table

Marketing isn’t a one-person show, and trying to do it all yourself is a recipe for burnout. Instead, surround yourself with a diverse team that brings different strengths—whether it's social media, content creation, or analytics. Each person plays a critical role in making your brand shine, and together, you can create a more effective strategy.

By focusing on real relationships and building a solid team, you’ll set your brand up for success in the short and long term.

See y’all at SHOT & Western Hunt 🫡

Let’s Talk Shop . . .

Let’s talk about quality in outdoor and firearms brands as I’ve been sparked with inspiration after talking to a very talented competition pistol shooter. . .

You know how everyone keeps saying "quality over quantity"? Well, I feel like that’s been totally forgotten in the firearms industries lately. It’s frustrating to watch brands flood the market with tons of new products just to keep up with the competition. It makes it hard to appreciate what’s really good out there.

Instead of focusing on making solid, reliable gear/products, it seems like a lot of companies are just trying to pump out more and more stuff. And honestly, that just annoys me. When brands lose sight of their mission and forget what they stand for, they lose the genuine connection with their customers. It’s like they’re just throwing things at the wall to see what sticks, rather than building real loyalty.

I get it—times are tough. The economy is rough, and people are cutting back everywhere. But here’s the thing: when the economy starts to bounce back and people are ready to spend again, will these brands still be connected to their roots? Or will they get distracted by whatever shiny new trend comes along?

This is where brand awareness comes in. Brands need to remind everyone why they’re special. They should focus on sharing their story and the passion that goes into their products. It’s all about letting people know what makes them different and why they should care.

Another thing that can really help is ambassador marketing. Imagine having real fans of the brand—people who love the products and share their experiences with others. These ambassadors can help spread the word and create a community around the brand. It’s way more genuine than just throwing ads out there.

And speaking of community, brands should really focus on managing their interactions with customers. If they take the time to listen to what people are saying and engage with them, it builds trust. When customers feel like they’re part of something bigger and that their opinions matter, they’re much more likely to stick around.

So, I hope brands start to realize that staying true to quality and building a community is what really matters. If they can focus on these things, they’ll not only survive but thrive in the long run. It’s all about bringing back the passion and heart that makes the outdoor and firearms industries so great!

Whats Trending…

The quick pace at which trends change and the unpredictability of how consumers behave make marketing more complicated.

What works today might not work tomorrow, so it’s important for marketers to be flexible and quick to adapt. The risks are greater now; a single mistake can lead to a backlash, especially since social media gives consumers a loud voice. Annoyingly, this pressure often results in unrealistic expectations without providing them the respect or pay that reflects their hard work.

While marketing is definitely tougher and more complex now than it was 15, 30, 40 years ago, it also brings exciting chances for brands that are open to change. The shift towards building more interactive relationships with consumers allows for stronger connections, which can lead to loyalty and trust.

Its so important for companies to recognize the heavy demands placed on those in marketing and to push for fair pay and respect that match the challenges of their jobs.

Total Archery Challenge 2024

Well this has been a wild & crazy 5 days!

The girls take on TOTAL ARCHERY CHALLENGE in BIG SKY, MONTANA

You know, it’s funny how life works sometimes. I remember when I was just starting out determined to RUN, knowing the right people made all the difference. It’s those heartfelt connections and shared moments that often open doors and create opportunities we couldn’t achieve on our own. But once those doors are open, it’s what you know that helps you shine and make the most of those opportunities.

At the end of the day, it’s the people in our lives who truly shape our journey and the knowledge that helps us navigate it. And DAMN HAVE I MET SO MANY THIS LAST YEAR AND A HALF!!!!!!

Imagine a group of women, connecting instantly, connecting through dept, each with a spark of ambition that lights up any room they enter. Their drive for more isn’t just a fleeting desire, but a relentless pursuit fueled by dreams and a fearless spirit. They navigate the challenges of life with a grace and determination that’s both inspiring and unwavering. No matter the obstacles, they stand together, knowing that their collective strength and fearlessness will always propel them forward, breaking barriers and redefining possibilities. Their willingness to give at all times, regardless of their own circumstances, adds a profound depth to their character and bonds them even closer. And these are those women—plus Chelsee behind the lens, capturing every moment with her own unique vision!

Sink or Swim

Navigating the job market after being unemployed for 10 weeks was an intense learning experience. Despite doing everything right—meticulously preparing for interviews, networking tirelessly, and refining my resume, investing in hours of education courses, podcasts and YouTube videos—the world just didn't seem to catch up with my efforts as quickly as I hoped. It was frustrating and disheartening at times, but it taught me even more about patience and persistence.

This journey forced me to confront my fears and step out of my comfort zone once again. I feel like I know nothing different since the age of 10. Each application and interview was a test of my resilience, pushing me to keep going even when things seemed bleak. I learned that facing challenges head-on, with grit and determination, is essential for personal growth. The setbacks and moments of doubt were tough, but they made me stronger and more adaptable once again in my life. In 2015 I knew the direction I wanted to go and did as much as I could over time to get to where I am now. This timeframe has not been easy and even in the last year and half so much has been tested to the fullest extent.

What I ultimately took away from this experience is the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Success isn't always immediate, and sometimes the world takes its time to catch up with your hard work. But by staying resilient, patient, and committed to my goals, I discovered that I could navigate life's uncertainties and come out stronger on the other side once again….even with all that said there is still so much more work ahead and it’s just now time to adjust the sails. As much as I’d wish to live a calm simple life, but for as long as I could remember it’s never been that. With this chaos it adds so much experience and value over time. These are experiences that could never be broken down in a simple resume but will always be apart of a focused and dedicated practical and professional work ethic.

NRAAM 2024

Making it to NRAAM 2024 was a deeply personal experience for me this year.

Just over a year ago, I attended an event after a three-year hiatus from professional or even hobby involvement in the firearms community. In late January 2023, I was offered my old position back, allowing me to reconnect with something I truly loved.

However, at this 2023 event I felt overwhelmed and out of place. I struggled to engage with others, feeling like a stranger in a familiar world. Doubts crept in, questioning if I still belonged in this space. Ultimately, I left early, my confidence extremely broken.

It was a true reality check, I refused to let it define me. I knew I had a vision for my future and the determination to see it through.

I took intentional steps to rebuild my confidence by staying focused in resources like YouTube videos and expanding my network through social media.

A year later, I am proud to reflect on the journey of rediscovering my passion and the intentional actions I took to get back on track. At NRAAM this year, I was amazed at the full circle moment of reconnecting with old acquaintances and making new and big connections.

To those I finally had the opportunity of meeting at the event, please know that our interactions meant the world to me for various reasons.

Attending NRAAM was not just about the event itself, but about reaffirming my identity, capabilities, and the remarkable progress I have made in just one year. While the job front may still pose challenges, the unwavering support and guidance from the people in my network have been invaluable in navigating this journey.

**I also really didn’t document too much 😂 Jamie( IG: MissGrendel) did and she has all the photos

The impact of who is in your corner…

Having a strong support system can have a huge impact on personal growth and self-discovery. Your support network serves as a safe space where you can share your feelings and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, helping you navigate challenges and develop resilience.

Photo by: Taylor Lynn Photography/Oak Terrace Media

The supportive ones offer encouragement and motivation, inspiring you to step out of your comfort zone and take risks that lead to personal growth. Surrounding yourself with different perspectives expands your understanding of the world, sparking new ideas & encouraging personal development.

Your support system should always hold you accountable for your goals, keeping you focused and committed to your journey of self-improvement. By giving valuable feedback, guidance, and insights from those you trust, you can learn from mistakes, make informed decisions, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself.

Ultimately, they create a nurturing environment that encourages self-reflection, shares their strengths with you to overcome challenges, and guides you toward unlocking your full potential.

The wisdom, encouragement, and care of your personal and professional circle play a pivotal role in your path of self-discovery and growth.

This weekend I had probably my biggest responsibilities with a camera in my hand, second shooter for a very important wedding. This was more than pressing a button and filling a space. I was determined to take full advantage of the opportunity and respect such a personal responsibility, keep in mind, I said yes on Wednesday, and the wedding was on Friday. But because of my support, I knew I wouldn’t disappoint or become deadweight and could hold my own.

Thankfully I absolutely didn’t fail at this, but I did accidentally get some shots of the grass and my iso was occasionally too high when working with Flash for the first time but I’d rather fail while being brave than fail at being brave. I’ll make mistakes, learn, and grow. I’m in the game, pushing my limits, exploring my potential, and giving life my all. No matter what, I trust in my judgment, resilience, and strength. I’ll be okay, no matter the outcome. Per usual I learned so much walking away from an amazing opportunity and how, if the chance is given again, I’d do things a little differently.

Content Creators vs Influencers

For the last two weeks my head has been buried in my laptop. From marketing course to far too many notes of random 3 am brain dumps.

Something has always been in my mind within social media marketing, my view on the differences between influencers and content creators, the importance of “micro” influencers, rather than the high follower count, and how paramount it is to vet these individuals for brand collaborations. Companies are increasingly investing in content creators and micro-influencers for their digital marketing.

Influencers wield influence over their audience, leveraging their authority, expertise, or personality to sway opinions and drive actions. Their primary focus lies in building a loyal following to their brand and then influencing purchasing decisions. On the other hand, content creators excel in producing captivating and high-quality content across various platforms, prioritizing creativity, storytelling, and production quality.

When evaluating influencers and content creators for brand partnerships, it is important to consider their relationship with their audience. Influencers possess a dedicated following that trusts their recommendations and opinions, making them powerful advocates for brands but also remember having their primary focus still be their own brand first. They collaborate with brands to promote products or services often blindly, integrating sponsored content seamlessly into their posts to resonate with their audience. Content creators, on the other hand, thrive in creating branded content as part of their creative work but may not have the same level of influence on purchasing decisions.

Metrics and performance evaluation play a crucial role in assessing influencers and content creators. Influencers are measured based on metrics such as reach, engagement rate, conversion rates, and ROI in campaigns. Brands leverage influencers to achieve specific marketing objectives and drive brand awareness, engagement, and conversions. Content creators are evaluated based on metrics related to content quality, creativity, storytelling, and audience engagement, rather than a direct influence on purchasing behavior, however, I have noticed a shift in companies investing more in content creators and micro-influencers because of the quality and value they uphold to the brands they are personally passionate about, their followers may be less but their engagement and audience are very valuable.

When vetting influencers and content creators for social media collaborations, brands should consider their influence, content quality, audience engagement, and alignment with the brand's values and objectives. By understanding the difference between influencers and content creators and their respective roles in digital marketing, brands can make better decisions and create impactful partnerships that resonate with their target audience and drive meaningful results in the competitive landscape of social media marketing.

Photo by: Caliber.Row (Alex Row)

'Tell me and I forget…

'Tell me and I forget,
teach me and I remember,
involve me and I learn.'

Practical learning is where the magic happens. It's in the hands-on experiences, the real-world applications, and the tangible results that we learn, grow, and thrive. Theory lays the foundation, but practical learning builds the structure. What you read, watch, or listen to doesn't mean anything unless you're able to actively engage and work.

Practical learning challenges us, stretches us, and empowers us to become the best version of ourselves. It's not just about what we know, but what we can do with that knowledge.

The knowledge in real-world settings has always been the way I learn the most. Learning isn't just about memorizing facts and figures; it's about actively engaging with the material, experimenting, making mistakes, and learning from those mistakes to grow and evolve.

It's the creators, the innovators, and the problem-solvers who thrive in dynamic, hands-on environments where we can run with an idea and see the direct impact of the efforts.

Photo by: Oak Terrace Media

'But You Only Press a Button . . .'

What I see is every purposeful step and turn. A determined focus prevails within the creative storm, revealing a mental control beneath the calm exterior.

I notice the subtle shifts in light and shadows, adjusting angles to capture each moment perfectly. I watch photographers guide their clients, offering adjustments to build confidence and helping them reveal their true selves. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about authentic connections through each shot.

Each image results from hours of planning and years of experience. The meticulous adjustments to settings and positioning bring the envisioned shots to life, all witnessed from my perspective as I admire the dedication of a friend and business owner.

Taylor’s empathetic interactions create genuine human connections, transcending the task's mechanics.

Photographers and digital content creators do more than take photos; we capture stories, extending them across our platforms. Each piece speaks to the emotions and experiences of the day, hinting at deeper feelings and the session's purpose.

Now comes the intense editing—enhancing colors, and adjusting contrasts to perfect each image. This unseen labor distinguishes true professionals from mere button pressers.

I value the depth of dedication and passion that drives any art form. It’s a reminder that every stunning image is the product of skill, creativity, and profound emotional investment.

Despite nearly 80 job applications and facing rejections, I remain committed to my creative and marketing career to be a part of a team, especially from those who offer more knowledge in this area. The path is tough, often forcing me to choose between passion and practicality. Yet, each challenge brings me closer to where I can thrive. I stay hopeful, continuously learning and adapting, driven by something I never noticed my brain was naturally wired for.

Remember, a stunning photograph is more than a click. It’s art crafted with emotion, expertise, and an indefatigable spirit.

Jumping In: Why 60% Prepared Means Fully Capable

Photo by: Oak Terrace Media

Waiting until you're 100% qualified means you'll be waiting forever. DUH! Cliche, I know....

The digital space changes too quickly, and the best way to keep up is to jump right in & stay consistent in the fundamentals. That's why I live by the rule of aiming for 60% ready for…well anything in my life to be honest. It might sound daring, but here’s why it seems to work: that remaining 40% isn’t laziness or lack of initiative — it's a growth mindset opportunity. It's a chance to learn hands-on, and how I’ve noticed to excel the fastest, to adapt, and to push beyond my current limits. It's how I turn challenges into stepping stones and continue to evolve personally and professionally, leveling up every time. It’s about embracing the learning process, and recognizing that being ready isn't about being perfect, but staying true to the proven methods — it's about being open to new experiences and willing to adapt.

Yes, sometimes I post something that goes hand in hand with personal and professional and immediately think, "Was that too much? Is it dumb? Why am I doing this?” I come across a post that makes me feel embarrassed for even being on here...But these moments are actively putting me in uncomfortable growth. Each step, each shot, each post, each seemingly small decision. "Practice what you preach!" The more I am putting myself out there in uncomfortable situations, and different environments, maybe learning the absolute hard way the more I am learning, the more my mindset shifts.

I won't be one to quickly say I am an expert because I recognize there is always something more I can be doing and learning from.