Passion over Pressure

I used to do photography. I loved it! I never left home without my camera because I thought I might miss the perfect shot or moment to capture. I not only enjoyed it as a hobby, but I pursued it as a second career. I enrolled in classes and seminars that taught me all the technicalities of it. I had mentors and teachers that inspired me and encouraged me. I regularly took photos of all my family and friends and gained clients.

Then there was a shift—a shift within myself. Everyone around me seemed to be new photographers, and there was constant competition I was competing in that made me uncomfortable and insecure. There was judgment all around, including among myself. I couldn't enjoy the beauty of a photo without wanting to know where and how it was taken, at what aperture and resolution, the technique used to edit it, and the lens that made it.

The shift was I didn't feel good enough. I didn't feel worthy of the "photographer" title because there were so many photographers out there better than me, with more equipment and resources. In the oversaturated market I was in, I felt like I did not stand out at all. So finally, I gave in to the unworthy feeling and put my camera on the shelf to rarely be taken off and enjoyed.

Looking back, this is not the only time my insecurities have held me back from doing the things I genuinely love and enjoy. I am my most prominent critic. And I am continually working on loving and respecting myself enough to feel worthy.

Things I have learned since that time:

-There is only one me!

-I have something to offer, even if that is only to one other person.

-I am capable of anything I set my mind & heart on.

-If I enjoy it, I am going to do it.

-I will not let the fear of others' opinions create enough fear in me not to pursue my passions.

How many times have you let pressure over passion control your desires? The question today is, "will you succumb to the pressure or pursue that passion yourself?"

~K

Venice, Italy 2017 Kelly Lynn Sciandra