Long Term Goals: Navigating Failure in the Infinite Game
In the realm of visual arts, embracing failure is not just inevitable but essential for long-term success.
Embracing Failure: A Crucial Step in the Artistic Journey
In the world of visual arts, failure is not just a possibility; it is an absolute certainty that every artist will encounter at some point in their journey. This inevitability, however, should not be viewed as a discouragement or a roadblock. Instead, it should be embraced as an integral part of the creative process. Far from being a setback, failure can serve as the most valuable teacher an artist will ever have. It is through the lens of failure that we gain the most profound insights into our work and ourselves. Embracing failure is crucial for growth and long-term success because it pushes us to explore new techniques, challenge our preconceived notions, and ultimately refine our artistic vision. When we fail, we are presented with opportunities to learn critical lessons that shape our artistic journey, helping us to evolve and mature as creators.
I’m not afraid to say that I fail, and I do so often. In the beginning of my photographic career, I failed...a lot. Every step I took was self-directed, and there was no one else to blame for things not working out. Each misstep was a chance to reassess and redirect my efforts, leading me to discover new paths and possibilities. However, I wouldn’t have it any other way because each failure has taught me invaluable lessons. These lessons have not only honed my skills but have also instilled in me a resilience and determination that are essential for any artist striving for excellence. Through failure, I have learned to be patient with myself, to persist despite challenges, and to appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
Lessons Learned from Early Missteps in Photography
My early foray into photography was marked by a significant misstep: believing that the only way to make a living with a camera was through wedding and portrait photography. This narrow view of the industry led me to take a job as an On-Site 'mobile' studio portrait photographer with a national company called United Studios. At the time, I thought this position would be the perfect stepping stone to a successful career, providing me with the stability and experience I needed. However, that decision turned out to be a mistake, as it quickly became apparent that this path was not aligned with my true passion or artistic vision. Despite the initial disappointment, this experience paved the way for some incredible opportunities that I could never have anticipated.
One such opportunity was meeting Brad Carson, a young photographer with a fine art background, whose work and perspective were vastly different from the commercial photography I was engaged in. Through our interactions, I was introduced to the intricate world of black and white darkroom printing, a technique that requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of photographic processes. This exposure was transformative, greatly impacting my understanding of photography and broadening my artistic horizons. It opened my eyes to the endless possibilities within the medium, allowing me to explore new creative avenues and develop a more nuanced appreciation for the art form. This unexpected turn in my journey taught me that sometimes, what seems like a setback can actually be a gateway to growth and discovery.
The Power of Unlikely Teachers and Forgotten Lessons
Sometimes, lessons come from the most unlikely sources, and their impact can be profound and far-reaching. When I was first hired at United Studios, my manager, in an attempt to enhance my skills and make me a more effective salesman, handed me two books. These were not just any books; they were Tony Robbins’ 'Awaken the Giant Within' and 'What to Say When You Talk to Yourself' by Dr. Shad Helmstetter. At the time, I was too arrogant and self-assured to even consider opening them. I dismissed them as irrelevant to my immediate goals and ambitions, believing that my path to success lay elsewhere.
However, years later, after a series of realizations and the acknowledgment that wedding and portrait photography was not the right fit for me, I stumbled upon these books once more. This time, with a more open mind and a willingness to learn, I delved into their pages and discovered the immense value they held. These books, which I had initially scoffed at, turned out to be life-changing. They taught me the importance of self-motivation, the necessity of continued learning, and the power of resilience. Through their teachings, I learned how to harness my inner strength, develop a positive mindset, and persist in the face of challenges. These lessons became instrumental in shaping not only my career but also my personal growth, guiding me toward a more fulfilling and successful artistic journey.
The Infinite Game: Persistence Over Winning
Seth Godin, a remarkable author and former Yahoo marketing leader, has brought widespread attention to the concept of 'The Infinite Game,' a philosophy that has profoundly influenced my perspective. This idea suggests that the ultimate goal is not to achieve a definitive victory but to continue participating, to persist and thrive despite the inevitable setbacks and challenges that life presents. Embracing this mindset has fundamentally transformed my approach to both photography and life itself. It encourages a focus on long-term growth and resilience rather than short-term wins, allowing me to appreciate the ongoing journey rather than fixating on a final destination.
Reflecting on my past, particularly my initial belief that my success would be confined to the realms of portrait and wedding photography, I have come to understand that this narrow view was a significant misstep. However, it was through this failure that I gained invaluable insights into my own identity, my relationships with my family, and the unique artistic style that I have developed over time. Each failure has served as a crucial stepping stone, guiding me toward a deeper understanding of my true passions and capabilities. I have realized that every setback is not an end but rather an opportunity for growth and learning, propelling me further along my path to artistic success.
Books That Transform: Essential Reading for Artists
Books possess an extraordinary ability to reshape our mindset and drive us forward, even during our most challenging times. They serve as beacons of hope and sources of wisdom, offering guidance and inspiration when we feel lost or overwhelmed. Among the myriad of authors who have left an indelible mark on my artistic journey, Seth Godin, Tony Robbins, and Dr. Shad Helmstetter stand out as particularly influential. Their works delve deeply into the themes of persistence, resilience, and self-motivation, providing readers with the tools needed to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. These authors have a unique talent for distilling complex ideas into actionable insights, making their books essential reading for anyone seeking to navigate the often tumultuous path of life and art.
If you find yourself grappling with uncertainty or self-doubt, I cannot stress enough the value of immersing yourself in the writings of these thought leaders. Their insights are not just theoretical musings but practical guides that can illuminate new perspectives and equip you with the strategies necessary to tackle life's infinite challenges. Whether you are an artist striving to find your voice or an individual seeking clarity in your personal journey, the wisdom contained within these pages can be transformative. The only regret you might harbor is not having discovered these invaluable resources sooner, as they have the potential to profoundly alter the course of your life and work.
Vist my Resources and Links page for direct links to an ever growing collection of books that will help you on your journey.
