Hmm where do i even start? 2015 was eventful for us to say the least. This year had brought us a whole lot of ups and downs, but more than anything, a whole lot of growth. I had so many thoughts of just giving up. This year was just really unexpecting after preparing so much after the busy year before this. So I figure I would write a little recap for the year and what I hope 2016 brings with you.
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2015 Highlights:
We travelled. A lot. There were, of course, lots of trips to Ontario and I made sure to experience some of my favourite spots as a kid, with my son. I plan on continuing this as the years progress. And of course, Ireland. Seriously we are so very lucky to have had a chance to go back.
I met some amazing people in the community. Mostly photographers, but some bloggers and the small business owners. There are definitely a few of these people that I see our friendships continuing for years to come.
My business excelled. I found myself booked for 1-2 months ahead of time. I learned to say no and to take on projects who shared a similar theme to my specific art. Clients were plentiful and I could officially call myself a successful Pictou County small business.
New gear, new techniques. I found myself in a groove. My work has been consistent and I love my work, which i had always questioned in the past.
I found inspiration. In grief, in life, in travelling, in other photographers work and blogs. I challenged myself.
I Watched my son THRIVE. W’s year was extraordinary. He was sick less, he overcame most of his TEF/EA issues and we did not need any surgeries this year whatsoever. He is ahead of the game when it comes to weight, height and intelligence. Seeing as though he did not even exist on these charts when we brought him home from the hospital that beautiful May day back in 2013, I consider this my most precious accomplishment this year and in life.
My bond with my husband continuing to grow stronger and stronger. Our house really has become our home these past two years.
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But with highs, come the lows:
I doubted my success and questioned everything. My work, my website, my friendships even.
I felt pressure to do everything right. Was my timeframe ok? Did I say the right things? really, am I doing all of this right?
Mostly, Our loss this year was profound. It affected me deeply and every which way. I wanted to give up. I found little strength in sharing happy stories of others when I was experiencing so much grief. Being social with anyone, including clients, was hard. I found joy in my art and editing, but at a loss for words for people around me.
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What I hope 2016 brings and what I want to gain from the highs and lows:
To keep finding inspiration. Everywhere and anywhere. I am signed up for more classes and I will never ever stop learning and growing. I believe this is so important as an artist.
Participate more so within the community. Find the time. It is so important as a small business to involve yourself within the area you live and work.
Take on less clients and focus more energy into my current clients. This is a biggie. I need to continue to learn to say no and stick with strict schedule. Not only will I have more time for clients, but for family and continuing to learn as well.
More personal projects. Edit personal projects and MAKE time. With these, I can experiment, which is so important in growing.
Blog. In general. About the business and our lives. There’s so much I want to share.
Focusing on family and friends. Really taking time to enjoy myself is important. This year was all work, which isn’t bad but can make anyone a little nutty.
Increasing my involvement in social media. I actually suck at the social media part. but I am going to put my big girl panties on and just go for it! (stay tuned for instagram and such….lol I ay even create one! LOL)
Stop doubting myself. I push others to believe in themselves, so I have to live up to this myself.
Most importantly I need to step back. Take a breath, Relax and Take it all in. Time moves so fast and this year was no exception. My babe will be 3 in a few months and that just blows my mind.
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And with that, That’s a wrap! Thanks for reading and hopefully you will stick around for next year. There will be more highs and i’m sure some lows, but I plan on documenting all of it. 2016 is bound for greatness. I can feel it. Thanks for coming along this journey with me so far. Enjoy the holidays with your littles, as I will be with mine.
Lots of Love,
Morgan
