Before focusing full time on photography, I had a job with an appreciation deficit. It can be soul sucking, not to mention emotionally & mentally debilitating. It certainly didn't make me want to be a better employee.
After a recent exchange with an unhappy client, I began to second guess my decisions, my work & myself. When you are creating work for someone, be it photography or spreadsheets, it can feel deeply personal when the work is not received as you intended. I stewed over it for a day (maybe more...) and then I just had to move on. As much as I would love for everyone to love the work that I create for them, it's just not going to happen.
And then today, I received this message from a client: "I love the pictures! Many thanks! We'll call again in the Spring for another photo shoot."
It's short & sweet, but so incredibly encouraging & spirit lifting!
No matter what type of work you do or what daily situation you find yourself in, remember to show appreciation to people. It's simple & can have a huge impact and best of all, it takes very little effort. Selfishly, it can also feel amazing to let people know that you think they are great. Go figure.
So...
I'm thankful for my family, friends and ALL of my amazing clients. You are awesome!