A New Job & Business at 40
My degree is in elementary education – but do many people do a job that has to do with their degree?
I taught first grade for two years before having my first son and becoming a stay-at-home mom. Then, in late 2012, I started my photography business around the time I turned 40. A new chapter.
I didn’t know much about running a business and to be totally honest I didn’t know a ton about photography. But, I had a passion and wanted to start something on my own and my expensive hobby seemed like the right thing. Crazy, right?
A Letter to My Younger Self
There are SO many things I wish I had known. I wish had a mentor from Day 1 telling me what to do and letting me bounce ideas off of! I’ve grown a lot in 7+ years as a photographer and a business woman entrepreneur. And I wish I could tell that woman just starting out a thing or two…or 10.
So, here it goes!
Dear Natasha (late 2012),
As you start this new adventure as an entrepreneur there are a few things you should know.
- Don’t second guess yourself. Go with your gut and follow your heart.
- You are going to make mistakes and that’s OK!
- This one is important – you can’t make everyone happy. Just do your best and handle every situation with grace and please don’t take criticism personally.
- Don’t do sessions you don’t want to do! Focus on the sessions that make you happy and fill your heart!
- It’s ok to say “no”! No to a session or a request. And be true to you.
- Comparison is the thief of joy. Don’t compare yourself to others or their journey. Stay in your own lane!
- Surround yourself with photographers and entrepreneurs that make you grow as a photographer and a business woman.
- You know more than you think you do.
- In-person training is the way to go!!!
- Give yourself grace – in your business and at home.
You are strong. And you can do more than you think you can. Remember that you are smart and motivated and that will take you far.
Make sure to carve out time to sit back and look at your journey. And remember to give yourself a pat on the back now and then – you deserve it.
Celebrate your wins.
Love,
Natasha (2020)
Have you written your younger self a letter? It’s a good practice. Therapy in a way and the best part – it’s FREE! I highly recommend it!
I’d love to know what’s the number one thing you would tell your younger self! Please leave a comment and let me know!
Natasha Sewell is a family and newborn photographer plus a photographer educator and mentor. She captures family’s joyful chaos in the place they are most comfortable – home. Natasha serves Washington, DC and surrounding areas and specializes in maternity, baby, and family photography.
