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A Hump Day Message: Making Self-Care a Priority

4/23/2025

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Never forget how to take care of yourself because others won't forget how to use you.
Unknown
by Skip Cohen

​It's Hump Day, and I try it keep it relatively light, but depending on your state of mind, today's topic could be just a quiet reminder or a critical point to help you focus.

Now and then, I share a point from Lou Mitchell's book, Mastering Positive Thinking. A few days ago, he shared the quote above and then went on to write:

Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. In a world where demands and expectations are constant, and burnout is one of the most prevalent illnesses, it's easy to prioritize others' needs over our own. However, neglecting self-care can leave us vulnerable to being taken advantage of, as people often remember how to use our strengths and resources for their benefit. Learning to say no to preserve yourself is key.

The world is nuts right now. From pissing off Mother Nature to the economy to the political arena, we're flooded with fake news from all sides. On any given day, most of us are fighting off some level of anxiety over the future. With the exception of the weather report, we don't know what to believe. 

At the same time, it's so easy to forget about self-care and help friends and worthy causes, putting our own needs on the back burner. I'm not suggesting anybody become selfish, but being just a little self-centered isn't a bad thing. Caregivers for family members with Alzheimer's learn early on that they can't take care of their loved one if they're not taking care of themselves first. It's no different than a flight attendant speech reminding you that if you're flying with a child, put on your oxygen mask before putting on your kid's.

Lou Mitchell went on to write: Are you taking adequate care of yourself, or are you constantly catering to others' needs? What boundaries can you set to ensure you prioritize your well-being? How can you integrate self-care practices into your daily routine to maintain a healthy balance?

And there's my point - you need to set some boundaries. For me, one area that needs my attention is what I read. I've stopped scrolling through all the bullshit on Facebook. There's one post after another that's fake news, and it's from all sides, as more and more people think their opinion is the only one. Sheila and I have even developed our own technique for watching the news - we pre-record and can get through Lester Holt and David Muir, both 30-minute news broadcasts, in less than 15 minutes!

This doesn't mean we accept the craziness in the world; it's just that our own sanity comes before allowing us to get upset over reports that are yet to be proven true! So, whether it's more sleep, exercise, eating better, setting boundaries on input to your life, or just taking time to smell the roses - you know how to hold focus with you camera, but what about YOU?

Wishing everybody a day when you can focus on what you need most!

​Happy Hump Day!
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Is "Fun" Missing from Running Your Business?

4/11/2025

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When a flower doesn't bloom,
you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower.

Alexander Den Heijer
by Skip Cohen

It's Friday, and I've gotten in the habit of keeping whatever I share relatively light. When I ran across the quote above a few minutes ago, I started thinking about how some of the artists I've worked with over the years are incredibly talented but can't seem to find that special level of passion that makes whatever they're working on fun.

Remember "fun?" It's one of those words that often gets lost under the stress of running a business combined with outside challenges like the economy, politics, taxes, etc. As I've written before, you can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if your own heart isn't in it.

So, if you're feeling a little down before you even start the day, take a little time off. Walk away from your business, whether it's just for an hour or a day or two. Think back to the vision you had of being a professional photographer. What's missing from that original dream? Do you need to expand your skill set? Do you need to bring in a partner/partners? Are you hitting the right demographics for your marketing and promotion? The list of questions can go on and on until you hit that "ah-ha" moment, where it all starts to make sense.  

Here's the bottom line - life is too short to treat today like a dress rehearsal for something bigger and better. You're the only one who can figure out what's going to make you smile and your heart sing. I know it sounds pretty sappy, but the future is up to you. Don't be afraid to get help from people in your network's core. Sometimes, all you need is a little outside help from a close friend, family member, or associate to see what's missing.

​Wishing everybody a terrific weekend ahead! And if I can help figure out how to put fun back in your business, you know where to find me!
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The Secret to Aging: Keeping Curiosity Alive

4/6/2025

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A.I. Images from Adobe Stock
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by Skip Cohen
​
It's Sunday morning, and I always jump the tracks from my usual topics and wander off, usually into new territory that is NEVER in line with business topics.

Last week, I wrote a post just on my Facebook page. It was April 1, and I realized that it had been 16 years since I resigned from Rangefinder Publishing/WPPI and started my own company. The response from friends was remarkable. A few days later, I shared a post about the Alzheimer's event I was involved with in Sarasota. That post resulted in a phone call from an old friend who simply said, "You just don't slow down, do you?"

In the process of deciding what I wanted to share this morning, scrolling through Facebook, there was a quote from Anthony Hopkins:

I am fully aware of my mortality, but at 87 years old, I still wake up every morning with the desire to misbehave. Age is not a barrier when you find passion in what you do. The real secret lies in keeping your curiosity alive, continuing to learn, and not letting the fear of time stop you from enjoying life. Every day is a new opportunity to create, to laugh, and to show that it is never too late to move forward with enthusiasm and joy.

As I've gotten older, my priorities have changed. I've learned to hit the mute button on the "negators" in my life. I've accepted that I creak for ten minutes when I get up every morning. I'm well aware that I sleep better when we eat dinner early, and I finally understand my grandparents, whom I made fun of as a kid for eating at 5:00! My list of growing limitations goes on, but one thing NEVER changes - my passion for the day ahead.

My passion for life is right in line with Anthony Hopkins' comment about curiosity, learning, and not worrying about growing older. But I couldn't do it by myself. It all starts with Sheila's support and, here and there, a kick in my ass reminding me to "stand tall." Then there are two pups, Lucy and Belle, who expand my cheerleading squad. Finally, expanding my support team, there are some amazing friends, most of who are part of this incredible industry I stumbled into so many years ago. 

And here's my point this morning. Aging ain't pretty, and it's not easy, but the greatest lesson I've learned in life is that none of us are alone. We can't stop the clock, but we can slow it down by taking the time to savor every moment and keeping curiosity alive. Taking time to smell the roses, isn't just an expression, but a solid rule to live by.  

Wishing everybody a day ahead that's filled with passion, reflection, and curiosity. Don't waste time worrying about tomorrow and missing today. Take the time to laugh, not just a light chuckle, but one of those from the gut laughs that fuel more laughs and smiles. And when you're giving one of those eleven-second therapeutic hugs to someone you love, think back to a time you two were together that made you both laugh.

"It's never too late to move forward with enthusiasm and joy!"

Happy Sunday...or Monday on the other side of the world.

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Pushing Beyond Expectations for a Stronger Business

4/4/2025

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Risk more than other's think is safe. Care more than others think is wise.
Dream more than others think is practical.
Expect more than others think is realistic.

Claude Bissell
by Skip Cohen

It's Friday, and I've gotten into the routine of sharing my thoughts each week that's based on a great quote I've stumbled across. The quote above is a prime example, and it seems to be how I've aged into my life at this point, although I'm still work in progress.

The quote came out of Lou Mitchell's book on positive thinking. He went on to write some great advice:

Reflect on your current approach to life. Are you playing it safe and adhering to what others consider wise and practical? How can you start taking more risks, caring more deeply, dreaming bigger, and expecting greater outcomes --to live a life that genuinely excites and fulfills you?

Now, let's take that quote and apply it to the business of being a professional photographer and artist. Over the years, I've met so many photographers who play everything safe! To compare it to your skill set, it's the equivalent of always shooting at f8!

Years ago, I heard a great comment about growth..."Growth only happens outside your comfort zone." Well, nothing could be more true than the way too many of you run your business. What seems to happen is like a progressive disease.

It starts when you stop taking risks, even the smallest ones. Before you realize it, you've become a Master of Mediocrity, not caring about maximum quality. After all, you've convinced yourself that most consumers don't know the difference. Then your dreams slow down, and instead of imagining the future, you ponder what went wrong in the past. Last on the list, you've lowered your expectations because you're tired of being disappointed. The entire scenario becomes the ultimate negative self-fulfilling prophecy.

But here's the cool thing about all of this  - nothing has to be forever. The power to change is all with you. Start by thinking back to the vision you had for your career. Next, what does it take to get back on track, or, is there a new track? What do you need to do? Last, put a date on your future...a timeline to grow your business and skill set to what you need to be more competitive live a more fulfilling life.

Everything will start to fall into place...just being in business today is a risk. So, risk, care, dream, and expect more! Stop living an f8 life because there's so much more when you shoot and live wide open!

Wishing everybody a great weekend!
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Are You Living an Authentic Life?

3/28/2025

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Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life.
Steve Jobs
by Skip Cohen

I've gotten in the habit of sharing a quote from one of my favorite motivational books, Mastering Positive Thinking, by Lou Mitchell. These days, it's not that easy to stay positive. I seem to be getting good at compartmentalizing and separating the insanity in the outside world into what I can and can't control.

I'm not saying we're not concerned, frustrated, angry, or astonished by the craziness in this country now; just that life is too short not to be true to ourselves in pursuing my own passions and dreams. It's about authentic living rather than conforming to anyone else's expectations.

Lou Mitchell wrote:

...Authentic living requires courage and self-awareness, enabling you to make choices that reflect your true desires. Remember, your unique journey is valuable and worth pursuing wholeheartedly...Reflect on areas in your life where you may be compromising your authenticity. In some areas are you conforming to others' expectations instead of following your own path? 

It's always worth doing a quick inventory of your dreams and visions. Most of us are miles away from what we thought our lives would be like looking forward to when we were younger. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it does help to look back and ask, "How did I get here?"  

Wishing everybody a terrific weekend and time just to chill and dream!
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Staying Focused on Your Dreams

3/23/2025

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Don't be afraid your life will end; be afraid that it will never begin.
Henry David Thoreau
by Skip Cohen

While I'm always miles away from topics like business and marketing on Sunday mornings, I had a hard time focusing on writing today. The world has turned upside down. It's becoming more and more difficult to stay focused on personal goals, life, and just plain old happiness, without getting sucked down the political rabbit hole, especially in social media. 

When I read the quote above yesterday, what author Lou Mitchell shared after Thoreau's quote really hit home:

Life is about the depth of our experiences, not the length of our days. Thoreau's words remind us that the true tragedy is not death, but living a life that has never truly begun. We get caught up in fears, routines, and the pursuit of security, forgetting to embrace the present and the opportunities it holds. Each day offers a chance to start anew, to step out of our comfort zones, and to live with intention and passion.

...What dreams or experiences have you been putting off? What changes can you make to start truly living, rather than waiting for the perfect moment?

Here's my point - so many of us have hit the pause button on many of our goals and dreams. The rationale is to wait until the "storms pass." Well, there will always be storms, walls to climb, and doors to break down. We're living in a Roseanne Rosanna Danna period...you know, "It's ALWAYS something!"

I'm not trying to minimize the seriousness of current events; I'm just trying to remind myself that nobody gets to stand in the way of my dreams and the things that make me smile, and my heart soar. 

Wishing everybody a day ahead that allows you time to focus on the people who best understand not just your dreams, but your frustrations as well. We're living in bizarre times, but that doesn't mean we have to put how we visualized our life to be on the "back-burner." You know how to hold focus on your camera; now it's time to hold focus on finding happiness.  And the people who get those eleven-second hugs I always write about are the perfect partners to help you keep your aspirations tack-sharp.

On the day following the Thoreau quote, author Lou Mitchell chose another relevant winner:
When everything seems to be going against you,
remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it!

Henry Ford
Happy Sunday...or Monday if you're on the other side of the world.
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Your Decisions Control Your Destiny

3/7/2025

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I am not a product of my circumstances. 
I am a product of my decisions.

Stephen Covey
PictureClick above for more info
by Skip Cohen

A few weeks back, I started sharing a quote each week from what's become one of my favorite motivational books, One Day At a Time by Lou Mitchell. Reading something inspirational first thing in the morning gets the gears in my brain moving in the right direction. The quote above was for today, March 7, and Mitchell went on to write:

Life often throws unexpected challenges our way, but it's our decisions that define us. Stephen Covey's words remind us that we hold the power to shape our own destiny. Rather than being passive victims of circumstance, we can choose how we respond to life's events.

And there it is, my whole point to wrap up the week. It's the decisions we make that lead us closer to our goals or push us farther away. Here's a great example from a few years back during the pandemic:

JP Elario is a remarkable photographer. When the pandemic hit, everybody was a victim of how it changed our lives, especially if you were a business owner and photographer. Well, JP looked at the challenge and created Facetime Portraits. He worked with his bridal clients, and captured stunning engagement portraits using Facetime, combined with his understanding of lighting, posing and composition.  

When most photographers were desperately looking for ways to save their business, JP built a new income stream for engagement photography. His story was later picked up by the 6:00 PM news in Albany, which added to his brand awareness. Facetime Portraits didn't completely replace the lost revenue from photographing weddings, but it did create a new income stream.  At a time when other artists were acting like a deer in your headlights, JP didn't let the panic of the pandemic slow him down. I grabbed a few of JP's images below to make my point.

Too often, we're victims of our own decisions, NOT the unexpected circumstances that arrived on our doorstep.

Wishing everybody a weekend ahead loaded with great decisions and time to reflect on all the things you can do to move closer to your goals.  

Happy Friday!

"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower."
Steve Jobs
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Images above copyright JP Elario. All rights reserved.
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Dreams Are Timeless - They Never Really Die!

2/28/2025

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You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
C.S. Lewis
by Skip Cohen

I try and keep it light on Fridays, although I don't often succeed. But I am going to keep it short. I found the quote above in a book by Lou Mitchell, who went on to write:

Reflect on your own life. Is there a dream you've put off because you thought it was too late? What can you do today to get back on track or set a new goal that excites you? Consider the experiences and knowledge you've gained over the years, and use them as a foundation to build new paths.

All of us had dreams when we were kids. Many of them disappeared as we got older and the quest for achieving them became buried under the stress of what we chose to accept as reality. But the truth is, dreams don't go away. They fade and then get moved to a back burner.

And there's my point - you're never too old to chase another goal or fulfill a dream. The key is not to let time get in the way. Whether there's something you've always wanted to do, a place you always wanted to go, or simply a skill you wish you'd learn, there's time...but you're the only one who can decide the direction of your next adventure.

Wishing everybody a weekend ahead with time to chase your dreams and start a new adventure. Nothing is outside your reach.
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Making Time for What's Most Important

2/21/2025

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"You will never find time for anything. If you want time, you must make it."
Charles Buxton
by Skip Cohen

​I always try and keep it light as we head into the weekend, especially in the "slow season." Here's a thought as we hit the last weekend in February:

A photographer I've known for a fairly long time asked me for some help in determining where his business needs the most attention. I was happy to give him a hand, but he never came back with what he needed me to look at in his business. When I contacted him to see what had happened a few months later, his response was, "I just haven't had the time."

This is a short post today: While we can't stop time or hit a magical rewind button, we do have control of our time, but it doesn't just happen. When there's something we want to do, it's only going to happen if we MAKE the time.

Lou Mitchell, in his book Positive Thinking - One Day at a Time, wrote:

... time is one of our most precious resources, yet it often feels scarce. Waiting to find time for important activities and goals is futile...Reflect on your daily routine. Are there activities you wish you had more time for? How can you adjust your schedule to make time for these priorities? What steps can you take today to start making time for what matters most?

Just two points today: Take a little time and review your priorities. So often, just when we start to get a little momentum on something, we're distracted. We take our foot off the gas and slow down - like a gaper's block driving past an accident on the freeway. 
You can't do big things if you're distracted by little things!
Unknown
Second, by staying overly focused on our cell phones, we're always reachable. Put phones together with email and social media, there's no place we can hide. Too many of us take every call and never say "No," when asked for help. I'm not suggesting you say "No" all the time, just prioritize better. You can't be everything to everybody, but you can find balance. You can be present for the things that matter most.
The concept of always being reachable makes us present nowhere.
Peter Arvai
Wishing everybody a terrific weekend with time for the things that are most important in your life!
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Time...Thanks to the StoryPeople

2/11/2025

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Everything changed the day he figured out
there was exactly enough time for the important things in his life.

The StoryPeople
by Skip Cohen

I know I shared the quote above a few years ago, but when something inspires us, our perspective can change as time goes by. Sheila and I have a collection of StoryPeople art, and this morning, I read the quote above.

This post is for those of you "Chicken Littles" who spend your life worrying about time. You can't slow it down and you can't stop it, but if you get it in the right perspective, the speed that time flies by becomes an asset. I admit, being an old fart helps in the way I look at time today, and here's my point...

I've learned to appreciate my goals and not be restricted by the time needed to accomplish what's important in my life. Over the years, I wasted so much time worrying about what I wanted to accomplish on any given day. I wasted time picking low-hanging fruit, not because it was easy to pick, but because my loftier goals might use up too much time. Life became about the quantity of things I got done, not always the quality!

This is a short post this morning. Stop worrying about time and just focus on the task at hand. I've learned that everything always works out for the better, and while some goals and tasks are more difficult than others, once you accept that you really can have it all, everything falls into place.

​Happy Tuesday!
PS And if you're looking for some great inspiration, thoughts on romance or simply a different perspective on life, check out the StoryPeople's website. (Please note: I do NOT work for them. They are not a client - I just love the way they seem to know exactly what's in my head and how to write it down.)
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Click to visit the StoryPeople website
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How's Your Frame of Mind for the New Year?

1/21/2025

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​"If it weren't for change there'd be no butterflies!"
Unknown Author
by Skip Cohen

​​It's January 21, and I'm betting most of you are still not back in the groove and are running in low gear. There's no sense of urgency. After all, it's the "slow season," and you've rationalized your right to procrastinate just a little longer. Sound familiar?

Most of us go through the same process every year - We think about the previous year, set goals for the new year, and then kick back for as long as we can...just to recharge a little longer. Too often, we think we need to make significant changes in the new year, but the truth is what most businesses need most is more consistency in all aspects of quality - not just what they deliver but how they market, communicate, and interact with their target audience. 

Maybe everything was done right last year, but you need to expand to a broader audience and offer more diverse products/services this year. Perhaps the product line is fine, but you need to find more ways to reach your target audience.

Let's make 2025 the year to maximize potential...
We spend January 1st walking through our lives, room by room,
drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched.
Maybe this year, to balance the list,
we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives...not looking for flaws, but for potential.

Ellen Goodman
​This isn't meant to be a long post. I just want to plant the seed of an idea to think things through before you jump back into expanding and building. What if you changed virtually NOTHING over the next week or two except making a few additions? For example, utilize a few of the ideas shared in my last post about building more strength into your business during the slow season.

Here's my point - every year is a struggle to grow your business. Some years growth is faster than others, but overall it's the same process. Maybe you need to pat yourself on the back and take the time to creatively chill. Recharge your battery while you look for potential areas for growth, diversity, and increased brand awareness. You don't have to be at a standstill, just take the time to think things through.

There's a lot of optimism for the new year, in spite of the horrific challenges Mother Nature is adding to our lives. So enjoy a little optimism and thoughts about making 2025 one of your best years yet.
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Time Waits for No One

1/13/2025

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A.I. image from Adobe Stock

Happiness is a Journey, Not a Destination...

For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life.
But there was always some obstacle in the way.
Something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, 
time still to be served, a debt to be paid.

At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life.
This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness.  Happiness is the way.
So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one.
​

Souza
by Skip Cohen
​
The wisdom above is from a refrigerator magnet that's been on my whiteboard for many years. I know I shared it in a post or two over ten years ago, but it deserves to be shared again.

So many of us waste time looking for happiness, when all along it's right there in front of us. Sometimes, it's hidden under the emotional baggage we all carry around. Most of the time, if you haven't found happiness, you just haven't looked hard enough.

It's January and in most parts of the country it's the "slow season." So, while you're working on your plans for the year ahead, this is the perfect time to think about your journey and make sure it's running on being happy. You can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if your own heart isn't in it.

Wishing everybody a great week ahead.
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Time to Kick Back and Chill?

1/3/2025

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A.I. Image from Adobe Stock
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you!
Anne Lamott 
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by Skip Cohen

We're officially into the "slow season." Normally, I suggest that just because business slows down, that doesn't mean you can. At the same time, everyone needs to recharge their battery, and this weekend is the time.

But, there's an art to kickin' back...you can only enjoy it if you've got a relatively clear head. That means tying up loose ends, reviewing any deadlines you're chasing, and, in summary - getting the monkey off your back!

A clear head sets the tone for relaxing, appreciating your family and friends, and daydreaming a little. What do you want 2025 to look like—not just from a business point of view but also from a personal one? 

Years ago, I gave up on New Year's resolutions. Instead, I find setting a few goals far more productive. A few times, I've even written them down on my calendar and tracked my progress. Rather than set rigid deadlines for completing specific tasks or projects, if it's personal, I just pick times in the future to check on my progress. 

Here's my point on this first Friday of the new year - Now is the time to take a short break and do whatever it takes to make your heart soar! This isn't directly about business but building up your attitude for the future. Remember, as artists, you can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if your heart isn't in it.

So, this is the time to take a break, kick back and chill. Smile more, and spend time with the people you appreciate the most, especially yourself!

Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for.
Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us.

Maya Angelou
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One More Reminder for the Holidays

12/24/2024

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by Skip Cohen

​Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, it's a family time of year and always special. It's a time to make memories with the people who mean the most to you. And here's my reminder: When you're together with older members of your family, DON'T FORGET TO VIDEO THEIR STORIES.

I've written a lot about legacy programs and documenting the stories of older relatives before they're no longer with you. Whether with your phone or camera doesn't make a difference. Take the time to corner those senior members of the family over the holidays.  

Now, take it one step further - if you've got kids in the house - assign them to be the family historians. If they're young, get the camera set up for them - and if they're older, give them some assignments. Stories like, "Sit down with Grandma and Grandpa and ask them how they met." Anything relevant in capturing those beautiful backstories that will disappear when older members of your family pass on.

Wishing everybody a wonderful holiday! Thank you for all your support, friendship, and feedback. It hasn't been the easiest year, but it's been one filled with memories, and as sappy as it sounds, it has been filled with a whole lot of love!

Happy Holidays! 
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When Did Everything Become So Serious?

12/18/2024

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A.I. Images from Adobe Stock
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by Skip Cohen

It's the last Hump Day before the holidays, and time to start to loosen up a little!

​Parts of today's post are from my archives, but what prompted today's topic was a conversation with a reader recently that was simply too serious.  Lately, so many people have become over-focused on issues that just don't matter. I'm not saying you should take business challenges lightly, but too many people need to relax a little.

I have no idea how my brain works when it comes to my "archives," but the expression "that's so funny, I forgot to laugh" popped into my head. It sent me on a quest to YouTube looking for one of my favorite old SNL skits with Gilda Radner and Bill Murray, which I've shared below. The SNL channel on YouTube is jam-packed with the classics and well worth your time whenever you need a chuckle.

Here's my point today - a lot of you need to loosen up. In the photography world, we're coming down to the end of 2024's seasonality, and in the "real world," the major December holidays are a week away. It's time to start to kick back a little, or at least think about it.

Stop being so serious about life and your quest for success. Seriously, what good is working to become a great artist if you're not stopping to smell the roses along the way? What good is working this hard if
you're missing time with family and friends? 

When I think of photographers I admire, Tony Corbell immediately comes to mind. You'll never see him without a smile. He deals with the same stress in his life we all do, but it's rare for anyone to hear him say "NO" to helping another photographer because he's too busy. He couldn't be more focused as an artist, but we love him because he's never let the craft overshadow his love for life.

So, lighten up! Focus on your business and your clients, but remember to focus on yourself, your family, and your friends too. Don't let your sense of humor get buried under the stress of business.

Here's a recipe for success: Laugh more than you worry. Don't lose sight of your goals. Recognize that success isn't just about the bottom line but being happy. Stay in touch with good friends. Accept that you're only one person and can only do so much. Know that everyone makes mistakes. And like Tim McGraw's lyrics of an old song, always stay humble and kind!

​Happy Hump Day! I hope Todd and Lisa make you smile as they did me this morning!

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Over-Thinking a Tough Topic

12/16/2024

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by Skip Cohen

When I wrote my blog yesterday, I was very hesitant before hitting "post." Talking about how we react under the stress of a dying loved one isn't a standard topic. It doesn't matter that it's something we all have to deal with at one time or another; we just don't talk about it.  I was over-thinking the challenge of sharing a remarkable guest post. Even in the silent rules of social media, death, politics, and religion are all topics the experts suggest we stay clear of.  

​When I read Durgawati Dari's original piece, I immediately wanted to share it. Although I know there are hundreds of books and articles on dealing with the death of a loved one, it's just not something I ever thought about, and life doesn't come with an instruction manual.

I made the decision to share the guest post after a long time of thinking about the consequences. Looking back now, I wasted time and energy worrying about what readers might say instead of just trusting my gut and instinct.

Today's post is short, and it's simply a thank you for so many positive comments via email, DMs, and even a couple of phone calls. Death isn't something normally on my mind, but with aging comes the loss of parents, other family members, and friends. In the last few weeks, I've lost several good friends. While I wasn't by their side at the moment they passed, I found Durgawati's post helpful in how I've been thinking about their recent deaths. Here's the link if you missed it.

​One of my favorite quotes is by Alfred Lord Tennyson, "I am a part of all that I have met."  It highlights the fact that each loved one we lose is already a part of us. Take a second and think about somebody you've lost close to you. Yes, they're gone physically, but their influence on your life is ALWAYS there. Think of who you are today and have some fun chasing down the roots for things you love to do, expressions you regularly use, or, if you're a foodie, who introduced you to your favorites.
Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day...
unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.

Saint Diamonds

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Isn't it Time You Gave in to the Magic?

12/11/2024

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A.I. Image from Adobe Stock
by Skip Cohen

It's Hump Day, two weeks before the holidays. For most people it's the busiest time of year. Everyone gets so wrapped up in the holidays, that too many of us miss the magic!

GIVE IN TO THE MAGIC
Give yourself permission to pay more attention to the birds chirping. Eat the marshmallows out of the cereal box without judging yourself. Look for the rainbows after a storm, and then take a picture of them for posterity. Feel the cool breeze on a hot day, and say thank you. Enjoy a glass of wine in the afternoon.

Savor each solitary moment of this life, they are all you have.

I've written a lot about the routine that Sheila and I established many years ago - reading something motivational to each other every morning. The piece above from Cyndie Spiegel, although her definition of "magic" seemed a little light, was the perfect reminder of how much I miss when I allow the craziness of life to set the pace. 

It takes practice to step away from the chaos of business and life, but as a work in progress, I'm proof that it can be done. It all starts with your mindset and the determination not to miss anything that helps create a smile. Just like holding focus with your camera - giving into the magic all around us is about holding focus on our hearts.

Happy Hump Day - make it one to remember!
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One Last Mini-Rant Before the Holidays!

12/9/2024

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"It'll be my luck that when my ship comes in, I'll be at the airport!"
Unknown
by Skip Cohen

​It's Marketing Monday, and it's very close to the last few days to do anything that will impact 2024. Yet many of you still act like the train doesn't leave for weeks, and you have all the time in the world. The reality is that you're just about out of time.

There are still a few things you can do to have an impact on what's left of this year and start a little foundation work on 2025!

  • Business Expenses: Talk with your accountant first to confirm - but until December 31 at midnight, if there are business expenses you need to make that are deductible, NOW is the time to invest. And with gear, while I usually suggest waiting until closeout sales in January, there are some remarkable deals going on right now.
  • Donations: Everyone is always thinking about cash, but what about gear you no longer use? There are so many schools and organizations that need equipment but don't have the budget. Again, check with your accountant to understand what might be tax-deductible.
  • Travel Planning: Are you headed to IUSA or WPPI in 2025? Get your hotel and travel reservations if needed, and start to plan a few lunches or dinners with friends and associates. Once at the convention, it's always hard to pull people together - so look at the schedule now and put a few plans in motion.
  • Holiday Cards: This is the week to get them in the mail. They should NOT be store-bought cards but your own images. On the back, your logo and contact information should be displayed, just like on a Hallmark card.
  • Social Media Updates: Whether it's your website or social media pages, if you have dated material expiring at yearend, then let's get things set up to be up-to-date on January 1!
  • Photojournalism: There's so much going on in every community this time of year...and you're a photographer! It's the perfect time to build your own stash of images to share when you're wearing the hat of being your own content creator. 
  • Community Involvement: From food banks to soup kitchens to Meals on Wheels and everything in between, every nonprofit needs help this time of year. It's not too late for you to help...and while you're there, add a few photographs of you being involved. They're perfect for posts later in the new year, as well as showing support for some of the events in your community.
  • January Events Calendar: One great way to keep involved in your community is to have an events calendar on your website. Being like the old town crier is a role each of you should be playing with the nonprofits in your area. With each event you capture and share, you create an ambassador role for yourself and build a profile that says, "This is my community, and I'm NOT just another retailer!"

Here's my point today - Procrastination is NOT a strategy! You've still got time to tie up a few loose ends and add to your foundation for success in the new year, as well as impact your brand for 2024. But, sit on your ass, and you'll miss the train - it's no fun watching it go by and not knowing when the next one's coming along!
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Focus on Giving Back!

12/3/2024

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A.I. Image from Adobe Stock
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by Skip Cohen

​Sometimes, inspiration shows up in the most unlikely places—like the back of a T-shirt! But it was the perfect sentiment at the Walk to End Alzheimer's last month.

"There is always light if only we're brave enough to see it ...if only we're brave enough to be it."

I wrote about Alzheimer's in a post a few weeks back. Losing my Mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a great-uncle to the horrible disease is a cause near and dear to my heart. It's the foundation for my newest "adventure," working with the Memory Care Alliance to help caregivers dealing with Alzheimer's.

But today's post isn't just about Alzheimer's; it's about finding a non-profit cause you believe in. Between Mother Nature's wrath and politics, the world has become a very scary, at times terrifying place. I know we're not the only ones who watch the news and want to go to bed and pull the covers over our heads!

The one way to beat dealing with those challenges we have no control over is to get involved in something that, by giving back, lifts your spirits and makes a difference. I loved this guy's t-shirt because it says so much in the simplicity of the message - brave enough to see the light and strong enough to help be the light!

It's December and holiday time - every non-profit needs help. Plus, you're looking for your community to be good to you - so you need to be good to your community. You're not just another retailer; one way to stand out even more is to be involved.

​Think about it for just a second - if everybody we know just gave back a little to their favorite non-profit, how much could we all help change the world?

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"Fitting in is Overrated!"

11/25/2024

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YOU ARE NOT FOR EVERYONE
Fitting in is overrated. You are not for everyone, don't strive to be.

Cyndie Spiegel
by Skip Cohen

​With the Thanksgiving holiday coming up this week, it's a short week, but certainly not light on being busy. While there's not a lot of time left for any business to do very much to capture more of 2024's seasonality, there's still a great point to make about your artistic and business philosophy.

In early October, I shared a blog about being comfortable with the word "No." Not everyone is your client, which makes turning some business down necessary when the request is too far outside your goal or even your comfort zone. But I want to share a more profound message in today's post, and it's all packaged in Cyndie Spiegel's quote above.

A few years back, my good buddy, Terry Clark, made a point about success: "The best thing to do to survive and thrive is find what everyone else isn't doing and do that thing." Stop doing what everyone else is doing, and use your creativity and passion for the craft to stand out from the herd!

We all desire to fit in, but when everybody fits in, most activity becomes a commodity! Your goal as an artist and small business owner is to be unique, exceed customer expectations, and make yourself habit-forming!

Don't compromise your goals and aspirations for the sake of being in line with what everybody else is doing!
I thought fitting in was something I had to fix. Now I see it as my superpower!
Maxime Legacé
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