It’s not every day that a post leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy, but this one did. This story is mine, and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I’m grateful to State Farm for giving me the prompt to write my thoughts down!
If you were to ask me to describe myself during childhood in just a few words, I’d probably say, “Happy but shy.” My shy and quiet nature certainly carried with me into adulthood as well. People may not be as quick to label me as “shy” anymore, but one thing has remained constant – I don’t love to be the center of attention and I rarely take personal risks.
A few years ago, I was discovering my love for photography. I enjoyed doing it for myself, but I lacked confidence in my abilities, and I was extremely uncomfortable with the idea of putting myself out there. I have loved taking photos for as long as I can remember, but venturing into that realm where I could call myself a photographer….that put me far out of my comfort zone.
The difference between taking photos of my own kids and the world around me versus taking pictures for other people was huge in my mind. When I took pictures for other people, something very personal was being put on display. Not only did I have to step out from behind my camera (a very comfortable place to hide!) but I had to allow myself to be ope and vulnerable to critiques.
It was almost to much for me, and I might not have ever found the confidence to give photography a try had it not been for the enthusiastic support of Kristin.
Kristin was not only a good friend, but she provided me with just the right amount of encouragement so that I believed in myself enough to take that leap of faith.
It’s very possible that Kristin’s support and encouragement in my photography are what gave me the confidence to start a blog, which is an even more public, vulnerable, and critiqued platform than photography. She believed in me until I believed in myself.
My little blog may not be changing the world, but the encouragement of one special friend certainly changed me.
Have you had a friend – or a neighbor – or a teacher – or a mentor – who has encouraged you and inspired you with confidence to reach your dreams? I’d love to hear who those people have been in your life!
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Disclosure: Compensation was provided by State Farm via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of State Farm.
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Love your story and thanks for sharing it and everything else on this blog. So glad you had her support and she gave you that extra push. I love your blog and looking at all your lovely photos.
No sadly I can’t say that I have. The only people that have encouraged me and tried to boost my cnofidence over the years is my parents.
I too was quite shy and quiet when I was young but after meeting my hubby and being with him for a few years I’ve came out of my shell and love to talk. There are many times when I think he wishes I would just shut up. LOL
What a great story. I’m so glad you got into blogging, you are great at it. What a great friend. Love that photograph too so I guess you’re good at photography!
It’s nice to have friends, I miss my friends they are all at home. I haven’t had the courage and confidence to make new friends in this new Country yet, thanks for a great post and I sooo need to work on my confidence and venture out more often out of my comfort zone.
That is great. It is always great to have someone give you that support. And that is an awesome picture.
Is so nice to have such wonderful friends!
i’m glad you have kristin too. selfishly, of course. without kristin giving you the confidence, i’d not have met you. and that would be sad.