Inspired
This weekend reminded me of the importance of listening—really listening—to other people’s stories. I had the opportunity to spend time listening to a friend, Candice last week, who shared her journey and how she arrived at where she is today. Listening to her story was deeply inspiring to me, especially because parts of it mirrored my own.
Like Candace, my education did not follow a straight path. I didn’t finish school right away. It took me years to complete my associate degree, with breaks along the way for family and raising my children. When I finally graduated with my associate degree in photography, I felt incredibly proud. That degree represented more than education—it represented a promise I had made to myself. I set the goal to earn an associate’s degree after graduating from high school. Even though it took longer than I expected, I did it, and that accomplishment still matters deeply to me.
For a long time, I believed that once I knew the technical aspects of photography, I had everything I needed. I thought I knew enough to run a business and didn’t see the value in going further in school. I have felt that way about a bachelor’s degree in photography. My thoughts are that it leans more into art theory than business practicality. But lately, I’ve started to question my own thoughts and if I may be missing out on what I can not know until I actually try. I believe if I were to push myself into a new level of learning, I might look back and realize how much more there was to gain.
Hearing Candace talk about returning to school and earning her master’s degree sparked something in me. It didn’t necessarily make me want to go back for a bachelor’s degree in photography, but maybe another subject around business or leadership.
Lately, I’ve had more quiet time at home. My children are at school or working, my husband is at work, and I find myself wondering how I can better use my time. I don’t feel restless—I feel curious. I want to challenge myself. I want to learn something new. I’ve started thinking about education in a broader sense—public speaking, leadership, teaching, and creating value for others. I facilitated a couple of workshops this year and realized I truly enjoyed that experience. It made me ask myself: how do I share what I’ve learned in a way that supports others?
I’m not naturally a loud or outspoken person. I do my best to observe, listen, and make space for others. I don’t always have strong or immediate opinions, and I don’t feel the need to be the loudest voice. That’s just who I am. But I’m beginning to understand that there is still value in sharing my story—quietly, thoughtfully, and honestly. I want to explore what that looks like and how I can do it in a way that feels authentic to me.
