Pushing Beyond Expectations for a Stronger Business

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!