A few months ago I had an idea to photograph something every day. I thought it might be neat to have a collection of moments from each day, and also that maybe it would bring my photography hobby closer to my heart. But what’s funny is how photography is just one facet of your life – like you are everywhere all the time and you experience so many different things, but only capture a few shots that represent the day in some way like photography jobs in austin.
So here is the thing: this project has given me clarity in areas where I struggle with self doubt and encouraged me to go after personal goals with more force than ever before.
1. It pushed me to be braver…
I used to be a shy kid. I would go to parties, but never really mingle or try to make new friendships. Photographing something every day has pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me interact with so many different people. Not only am I meeting people, but I am actively seeking out experiences that are different from my norm.
Anywhere you live there is so much going on around you that most people would never know about! By pushing yourself out of your safe zone you can experience some amazing things – like the live performance art festival pictured below.
2. It encouraged me to not wait…
As a writer, the only people I have a chance at ever sharing my work with are the editors of my local papers. But because this project is more about capturing moments than working on a single piece of writing, I can share work without pressure. The same goes for personal projects – I was inspired to sew up one of my skirts yesterday, not because it needed fixing, but because it needed to be done. Also, when you don’t have something to wait for then you go after it like there is no tomorrow.
3. It has made me work on projects…
I used to be an avid knitter. I have several WIPs (works in progress) that I have put on the back burner while my life is busy. But since this project is constant, I work on projects every day, even if it’s just a little bit. And when the project is done and hung up, it doesn’t matter because there is another one right around the corner.
4. It motivated me to share more of myself…
You can’t share everything that you capture, but you want to share a lot of what you get out there in the world. So I have found myself sharing more of myself and being open with people I meet. As a photographer, your work may not always be that visually stimulating so it’s important to share what you are working on – whether it’s architecture, cleaning, cooking, DIY… Being able to do this is a sure sign of confidence and self worth.
And lastly – it’s given me more confidence…
I am naturally shy and find talking to strangers intimidating. But because this project is constant, I am getting better at finding ways to talk to people. It’s funny how much confidence comes from being around other confident people.
5. It’s made my life more productive…
This project isn’t just about photographing something every day. It’s about being on a mission to live a more complete life. So because of this project, I am a better writer, more outgoing, and more in tune with the things I want to accomplish personally and professionally.
6. It’s helped me become more creative…
The act of creating something every day is beyond satisfying! Whether it’s a recipe from your new food blog (maybe like mine !), an outfit that you thought up on the spot, or a photo that seems out of this world – it’s awesome to live in the moment and see what comes next.
7. It deepened my connection with the universe…
I may have lost touch with my spirituality because I haven’t been practicing, but photography has brought it right back to me. Like, you may think you are just going through the motions when you go out that night, but look again and see how many things happen along the way that bring about a feeling of synchronicity or destiny. You could capture a moment like this one below…
8. It has made me become more focused…
Photography is something that I do obsessively. It’s something that I love to do every day. But when you have a lot going on, you may find it hard to make time for the things that really matter. And what really matters is being in the moment and doing those things that you are excited about.
Summary:
This project has been so great for me. If you are looking for a way to make your life more intentional, then consider doing something every day. You can post it on a blog or just keep it to yourself and have it hold you accountable.
