Changing Career Paths

Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.
Warren Buffett

by Skip Cohen

When I read the quote above, I couldn't help but think about our industry. Lou Mitchell went on to write:

The benefits we enjoy are often the result of efforts made by others in the past. This perspective encourages us to consider how our actions can create lasting positive effects for those who come after us, emphasizing the value of foresight and generosity.

We're an industry of trailblazers. People like Don Blair, Monte Zucker and Dean Collins, just to name a few, all blazed a trail for so many of us to follow and learn from. And as each of them passed on, another artist, educator, and trend-setter stepped in, becoming a guiding light for integrity, quality, and new techniques.

Now and then I've met artists who want to change their career path and step into another specialty. But almost always, they have an excuse: it's too late and something they should have done years ago. They "should" on themselves, but the reality is just the opposite -- There's always time to change, grow, and influence.

Remember, growth only happens outside your comfort zone. I remember sitting with Don Blair in the back of the room at a Nick Vedros presentation in Phoenix. Don, already established as one of the most recognized portrait artists in the world, was furiously taking notes. Surprised, I asked, "What are you taking notes about? You know all of this stuff already!"

He shook his head and said, "What this guy is doing is giving me all kinds of ideas on changes I want to make!" He went back to furiously taking more notes.

It's just a short post today and a reminder that your only limitations are the ones you put on yourself. Plus, as sappy as it sounds, this industry is a family with members who help each other and watch each other's backs. 

As I've written before, you can't create images that tug at people's hearts if your own heart isn't in it! So, if you find yourself bored and a touch apathetic, step away from your business and take time to figure out what's missing.

When a bottle of Coke has gone flat, you can't put the fizz back in, but you can toss it and open another bottle! Your career path is no different, and there are so many different "sodas" to choose from.

Happy Hump Day!