Saying Yes! Going Beyond Doubts and Uncertainties...

A few years ago, I was just starting out as an independent photographer, working with a mentor who was teaching me the business side of photography.

Barely a week or two into working with him, he called early one morning with an offer for a paid job. He quickly explained the project, what I’d need to do, and when to deliver the images.

I wasn’t experienced in this type of shoot, and I wasn’t even sure how to invoice for it yet.

Doubts and uncertainties rushed through my mind.

But when he asked, “Do you want to do it?”

I just said, “Yes!”

I thought to myself, if he had seen my work on previous shoots and was willing to pass a paying client to me, risking his well-established reputation, then he must have faith in me.

I decided to trust that and rise to the occasion.

Whatever doubts I had, I’d figure it out along the way. Plus, I could always ask my mentor for advice if needed.

So, I took the job.

It wasn’t a thrilling shoot, but I learned a lot from it.

The client was an organization dedicated to community health, promoting diabetes prevention through dietary education. They needed images of a new eye scanning machine they’d donated to a community clinic.

I captured the event, edited the pictures, delivered on time, and got paid.

That small job grew my confidence as a photographer, step by step.

Think back to a time when you were new at something.

You didn’t know much about it but were willing to learn, and eventually, you gained experience.

It’s the same with business—there will always be areas where you’re still learning.

But if you say “yes” to growth opportunities, you’ll gain valuable experience and confidence along the way...

Business Lessons:

1. Trust in Yourself and Others’ Belief in You
   When someone you respect offers you a new challenge, it often reflects their confidence in your abilities. Trust that they see potential in you, even if you don’t yet see it in yourself.

2. Action is the Best Teacher
   You don’t need to know everything before starting; experience is the best teacher. By taking the leap and saying “yes,” you learn as you go, gaining skills and resilience with every new project.

3. Every Win Builds Momentum
   Every project, big or small, is a chance to grow. Completing tasks successfully—even those that seem simple—builds momentum, creating a steady foundation of confidence and skill over time.

Here’s to you having the courage to say yes when opportunity comes knocking!

Lenore