You Will Make It!

To the people who say you won't make it, all I have to say is... Actually, I have nothing to say, other than: “We'll see. Just watch”.

Do you have something or someone in your past that motivates you? That pushes you to get better and they don't even know it?

I drive by this home on a regular basis. It is the home of the person who almost 18 years ago told me I wouldn't make it in photography.

After assisting with two weddings, he sat me down, looked at the photos that I had taken, and criticized how bad I was. However, when this took place, deep down, something happened.

He told me I would never make it. But, what he did not know, is that was exactly what I needed to hear.

I was a terrible photographer at the time, but dreamed of traveling the world, getting paid to photograph beautiful people and locations with my wife next to me.

His words sent my mind racing, and all I can remember thinking is: “Oh yeah, you think I won't make it, just watch! I'll show you!”.

It was some of the best free motivation that I have ever had! And, just a few days ago, as I drove past the house, all this came rushing back to me.

I do not know what happened to the man who said those words to me. I do not know what he is doing, but I know his business is not around, he went through a divorce, and someone else now lives in the house. But no matter where he is, I do wish him all the best!

Now we fast forward to 18 years later, and I am still photographing, and my work is much, much better (it is always a work in progress).

I have made it this far only through God's grace, the amazing people I've met along the way, and a wife who’s support never waivers when I tell her about another crazy idea I want to try.

So, if you are out there trying to make it, I hope your moment of free motivation comes today! While it will hurt in the moment, it will be something you need to continue your journey when it is the darkest.

It will get dark along the way, and it will be harder than you can imagine. But, the reward of success is also better than you can imagine. I wish you all the best!

If you need help, please know that I am here. I do not claim to know everything, but I can listen. And sometimes, that is what you need the most!