Let them tell you no...

In my quest to live my best life i am often aware that it isn't what i do that often sabotages my efforts toward success -  it's what i don't do.

I often get stuck in my head.  A million little possibilities buzzing around...even more questions...

Over coffee one morning while visiting with a friend in Connecticut my life was forever changed.  Seriously.  I know it sounds dramatic but really...

For some reason or another we were talking about age, when I realized we were not only in the same age bracket but we were kinda the same age (give or take a few years) yet she was light years ahead me career-wise.  You think i'm successful?  Nooooo.   Kinda disbelievingly (i'm not a fan of false modesty)  definitely stunned I replied, "Uh, yeah you are" and i want to know how.  What's your secret? 

Let them tell you no...

She told me that while teaching at Haveford College a mentor of hers mentioned an opportunity at Yale University she thought would be perfect for her professionally.  Skeptical at best my friends response was anything but confident.  Sensing her uncertainty her mentor said, " Let them tell you no."

Huh?  What?!  My skin tingled.   Recognition...wisdom.  Oh, i love it when we come into contact...

Life is ripe with opportunities.  Your job is not to know which ones are good for you...your job is to go after as many opportunities available to you and let them tell you no.  No is not bad it's a sign to go in another direction.  Yes, is permission to continue... 

Fast forward about 8 years... my friend Katie told me that DCCAH, FotoWeek DC and DC Counts were partnering to promote the 2010 Census through local photography competition DC Photo Census and i should apply.  Me?!  No!  What?!


Let them tell you no...

Just do it B.  What's the harm? 

Let them tell you no...

I selected 1 photograph.  Ordered a print.  Filled out the paperwork.  Let the envelope sit on my kitchen counter for several days.  Drove to the DCCAH office and personally submitted my application packet (March 30, 2010 @ 4:59pm EST) and....waited.

Check out the final product...I was selected!  

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In my quest to live my best life i am often aware that it isn't what i do that often sabotages my efforts toward success -  it's what i don't do.   Don't let yourself psyche yourself out.  Walk, trust, believe and


Let them tell you no...

Until next time...