The Art of Holding Focus Without Burning Out

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"If you decide to run the ball, just count on fumbling and getting the shit knocked out of you a lot,
but never forget how much fun it is just to run the ball! "
Jimmy Buffett

I missed "Marketing Monday" yesterday. So, welcome to Marketing Tuesday...

The quote above was just too good not to share.  There are too many of you have taken a few hits and forgotten how much fun it is to run the ball!  The "ball" is your business and while it has days loaded with stress, you're still running your own company and getting closer to living your dream...or maybe you're already there.

However, if you're feeling a little weary now and then, it's sure something I can relate to. Best example is that it's well after midnight and I just couldn't sleep. So, I got up and started working. It's not something I recommend, but there are days in every business when you just can't let go.

So, it seems like the perfect time to focus on things you can do to make sure you never forget how much fun it is to "run the ball" and avoid burning out...

• Take a break from the business. Take your camera and get out and shoot for the day.  Go back to your roots and photograph whatever got you excited about imaging in the first place.

• Experiment with your gear. Yesterday's Luminary Corner post from Bob Coates had him stacking extension tubes and shooting in "macro macro"...he just grabbed his gear and headed out hiking in the desert.

• Phone a friend. Okay, I know it seems trite, but last week I had a long call with an old buddy I hadn't talked to in at least two years. There are no words to describe the smile on my face when I hung up the phone.

• Get yourself to a local meeting of photographers. Whether a PPA affiliate or a local camera club, hanging out with people who have the same interests and often some of the same frustrations, can do wonders for your creative spirit.

• Listen to a great podcast. Here's one that a week ago I couldn't have shared. It's the most inspirational interview I've ever done and it's all thanks to Sandy Puc. I've never talked with a photographer who was willing to share so much information about her business and even certain aspects of how it had an impact on her personal life. Just trust me, click on the banner and listen to it.

• Find a Creative Live episode in their archives with a photographer you admire. You've all got your  favorites and Creative Live has had just about every educator in our industry.

You're part of an amazing industry, but it's important to remember you're not alone. Everybody has tough days, challenges that seem impossible to resolve and moments where we just question the path we've chosen. The key is to recognize when you're on the edge and utilize all those resources and friends out there who are willing to help.