Growing up, at some point, we're taught that life is about contributing to society in a positive manner, whether you become noted in the 'history books' as a public figure or just as a layman. For the most part we're all figuring it out as we go along, and in every humans ultimate life's goal is to live a purposeful life, well, at least for most of us. The epitome of that is managing to do so AND also loving what you do. For many, this seems to be impossible, and they end up settling for whatever line of work they qualify for after years of tertiary education, or others drift through life surviving on the minimum and seemingly content with their lives.
I'm blessed to have been thrown into the deep end when it came to a career choice, because if it were up to me alone, I would have finished my matric, gotten a degree in psychology, started a practice and lived a content and 'simple' life. God had other plans for me though, and I thank my mother and little sister for pushing me in this direction, although I was reluctant to begin with, I now undoubtedly love what I do.
The model-biz has it's down side but the majority of my 14 year experience has been filled with some amazing milestones personally and professionally. I've had the privilege to document my life in pictures taken by some well renowned South African and a few international photographers, and the memories behind each picture are priceless moments in time. Some days were difficult, but as a professional, ones personal issues should never reflect in your images, but those hard days are made easier by a compassionate and understanding crew.
For the number of times I can count of having a bad experience on a shoot, is far outweighed by the numerous times I've had the most fun working on amazing campaigns and with amazing people. Locally, we 'Amazonians' love Fashion Week season and the other fashion shows as well, just because of the environment we get to enjoy to catch up and hang out with each other as colleagues. Many true friendships have developed, many a dramatic moment has occurred backstage, and the energy remains the same, fun and a time to catch up on the latest buzz in the Model Biz.
Most of us are blessed to be in a line of occupation that we truly enjoy and love, but for most, enjoying their work environment seems impossible. I've found that not all of us may get to do what we love for a living, and that we do what needs to be done to provide a decent life for ourselves and loved ones, but I also realized that happiness should not be determined by our circumstances. True happiness comes from within, and can only be controlled by us. Know what makes you happy, and never let anyone or anything take your joy, because for the most part, joy comes from appreciating what you have, whether big or small, always be grateful for your blessings. You're blessed to even have a job, so why waste energy on slacking and complaining about how difficult your job is, when you can change your mindset positively, and enjoy a fulfilling career.
So wherever you're at in life, whatever situation you face, remember this quote; "Energy flows, where attention goes."- Somebody Smart
"As a man thinketh, so is he." So stay positive in your thinking, always search for that silver lining in your cloud, and remain ridiculously optimistic, you'd be surprised how an attitude of gratitude can get you through each day!
