New Year – New Brand – New Goals

As previously mentioned, every year I choose a goal for myself. Something a little wild, to put me out of my comfort zone a bit, and something to push me to do greater things. I’m not going to lie – 2016 was a YEAR. We all felt it. If the devil had a year dedicated to himself, it was that one. So this year, it’s a time of reflection. Plus, I am entering year number SIX of business, which means I survived past the five year mark that most small businesses fail! Hooray!

Here are the things I’m asking myself, and something other photographers or really any entrepreneur can ask themselves:

What’s worked?
What hasn’t?
What can I do to make my clients even happier?
What can I do to ensure I am taking care of myself?
What are the most stressful parts of my job?
What are the most enjoyable parts?

Analyzing these questions will give insight into business. See if there are any relations to the ‘what hasn’t worked’ and ‘most stressful part’ questions. Are there any for the ‘what’s worked’ and ‘most enjoyable parts’ questions? If so, do your best to come up with a way to resolve any conflicts or issues you feel are impacting your business, while also amplifying what HAS worked and what you enjoy.

Now ask a handful of your close friends and family that see you often these questions:

What are your thoughts on how I run my business? 
How do YOU think I feel with my business?
When have I seemed the most stressed?
When have I seemed the most happiest?

Analyzing what they say since they can pick up on things you may not can also help provide valuable insight into what you’re doing.

Here are the top 3 things I want to do this year:
– One-on-one mentoring sessions
These have been requested so much, and I can’t wait to begin this adventure!

– Shoot with film + create beauty 
I didn’t get to really pour my heart and soul into a styled session this past year, because I never had time, nor did I make time to do so. That’s changing. I’ve always admired those that shoot film, and have wanted to pick up that trusty ol’ pal to restart that journey. I’m going to be combining these two passions to give myself that creative enjoyment I missed out on so much in 2016

– Have personal and business life SEPARATED
This is HUGE. I am such a night owl, so it should be rather simple for me, yet I’ve never forced myself to use nor implemented business hours. It has stressed me out to no end. Every minute of the day, I am thinking about what needs to be done. What could be done. What should be done. What is coming up. Because of that, I’ve never been able to fully be in the moment with things not related to business – examples being: going to a movie, having dinner with friends, spending time with family, etc. I didn’t realize how this was felt by everyone around me until I asked those questions above ^^^. While I love working at night, I need to set aside specific hours without any interruptions to do what I need to do. I need to set daily goals to accomplish that aren’t impossible to complete in one day. By being realistic, I can feel that sense of accomplishment, and not stress and dwell on a to-do list that’s never-ending.

So, yes. This year is about me. It’s about me doing what I feel is best, me rediscovering passion, and me putting myself and my knowledge out there. It IS going to be fantastic, and I can NOT wait to share what’s in store! Especially for my couples 😉 Cheers to a new year!

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