Is It Time for You to Loosen Up a Little?

Many years ago, just a few years after my start in this industry, I heard a motivational speaker talk about life. Ed Foreman said,

“Life is primarily for laughing, loving, and living. It ain’t just for whining, worrying, and working!”

My adaptation: Life is for laughing, loving, and living, not bitching, moaning, and complaining.

No matter which statement you like best, many of you need to simply loosen up. In the photography world, we’re just ahead of spring seasonality and tax season. You can kick back just a little, but not very much. While revenue is usually down in the first quarter of the year, the work you should be doing on building a solid foundation for 2026 is not.

But let’s start with the basics: Stop being so serious about life and your quest for success. What good is working to become a great artist if you’re not stopping to smell the roses along the way? What good is working this hard if you’re missing time with family and friends? 

When I think of photographers I admire, Tony Corbell immediately comes to mind. You’ll never see him without a smile. He deals with the same stress in his life that we all do, but it’s rare for anyone to hear him say “NO” to helping another photographer because he’s too busy. He couldn’t be more focused as an artist, but we love him because he’s never let the craft overshadow his love for life.

So, lighten up! Focus on your business and your clients, but remember to focus on yourself, your family, and your friends too. Don’t let your sense of humor get buried under the stress of business.

Here’s a recipe for success: Laugh more than you worry. Don’t lose sight of your goals. Recognize that success isn’t just about the bottom line but also about being happy. Stay in touch with good friends. Accept that you’re only one person and can only do so much. Know that everyone makes mistakes. And like Tim McGraw’s lyrics of an old song, always stay humble and kind!