Happy New Year!!!!

A colleague has embarked upon a photography career recently, and she has already received an invitation for her first showing.  Initially she had been beyond excited, but I noticed that in recent days, her confidence level has been diminishing.  When I asked her what was wrong, she asked the million-dollar question that all artists ask, “What if they do not like my work?”

I looked at her and told her that it does not matter if they do not like her work, because if they don’t – it was not meant for them to enjoy. She did not expect that response.  She replied, “Seriously?”  I answered, “Seriously.”

I went on to explain my viewpoint about art.  Art is self-expression, and how can any human being truly critique any art form?  Art comes from within, whether it is poetry, paintings, music, dance, or any other medium. I pointed out that she has to love and believe in her own work before anyone else can, and she has trust that there is an audience for every type of art in the universe.  Of course, the challenge is finding that audience through the process of marketing, but we are part of a boundless ocean of artists, and there is room for each and every one of us to reach our individual goals.

When I asked her to describe some of her photographs and their meanings – her eyes lit up. As she explained the lighting, the subject matter, and how much fun she had taking each photograph, I could see that she was quite passionate about her work. If she could share that same passion with the audience at her showing – I know that they would feel it too.

This applies to all aspects of life.  Many people think that the opinion of others must come first, but that is not true at all.  We have to start with our own way of thinking, by working on self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-awareness.  We cannot seek approval from the rest of the world, if we cannot look within our own hearts and souls, and value the gifts that make all of us so special.

What about weight loss – it can be so easy losing weight for the wrong reasons.  I do not think there is anything wrong with losing weight to look good, if you are trying to look good for you and your own level of comfort and health. However, if someone pressures you to lose weight out of ridicule and judgment – it is neither healthy nor productive to follow any weight loss plans.  

What if they do not like you?  Who are they?  Why does their opinion matter? Can they live your life for you, walk in your shoes, or lose the weight for you? Instead of asking what if the glass is half-empty, why not try asking what if the glass is half-full. Perhaps I sound a bit on the cliché side.  However, a little positive energy goes a long way, in this negative world.  You can change your circumstances by changing your attitude, whether it pertains to a successful weight loss plan, or a victorious photography exhibit.  The key is being confident enough to know that the only thing standing in the path of your personal or professional success is you. Once you step out of your own way – nothing can stop you from reaching for the stars!

“People who want the most approval get the least, and people who need approval the least get the most.“
Wayne Dyer

Until next time – No Defeat … No Limitations!

ANGEL LOGAN

Published Author | Professional Writer

Official site: http://www.wingsofanangel.us

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