Hey Friends!
So I hesitated a bit posting this blog entry.
I’ve always kept my new years resolutions to myself in fear that I won’t keep them and everyone would know that I failed. But a few months ago, I wrote an entry that was an open letter to every creative. In it, I wrote, “Don’t let fear be your fuel. Let passion be your power.” and suddenly felt very hypocritical about not wanting to talk about my resolutions!
2015 was definitely a difficult year both personally and business-wise. And while it was filled with a lot of negatives, I’m definitely thankful for the life lessons I’ve learned. Shout out to my amazing girlfriend, Niki for being so patient, kind and encouraging and also to my loving and supportive family. So instead of looking at 2015 in a bad light, I’m choosing to be okay with it and use 2016 as a blank slate. A new beginning.
In 2016, I’m not going to stay silent or go with the flow or continue to compare myself to my peers. “Justin Critz Photography” is just that. It’s MY business. It’s MY art. I am ready to take hold of 2016 as if it’s a paint brush that’s customized to fit into my hands. While I believe that creating something unique and true to yourself is important, I also have learned that this can’t be done alone. I spent most of 2015 hiding in the shadows of my fear. But, I’ve come to realize that I’m not the only one with these fears.
So what is my word for 2016?
Connection.
Toward the tail end of 2015, I was invited to join “The Rising Tide Society” by the super talented/inspiring Jenna Joseph.
I was super nervous, but excited to meet other creatives. It was such a breath of fresh air meeting so many people from my area doing the same thing as me. What’s even more amazing is that fact that these fellow creatives are dedicated to building each other up. Not once have I felt like I’ve been judged or looked down upon or felt like I was in a competition. I’m so excited to create stronger bonds and friendships with these like minded individuals. I know that I’ll be able to take each and every word of encouragement and wisdom and use it to better my business. God is so good and I’m thrilled to see what He’s going to do this year! “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17.
2016, BRING IT.
This is amazing Justin! I loved the part that you said about continuing to create for yourself and not comparing your art to other peoples’ work. It’s something I struggle with, and I think a lot of us creatives do! I’m always telling myself to focus on my goals and inspirations instead of comparison, because I easily get sidetracked. It’s really encouraging to read your post, because it’s so relatable!
It also means so much to know you’re enjoying being a part of Rising Tide Society’s community, and that we’re all lifting others up in Temecula. It warms my heart to read this!
Thank you for sharing! I love your blog!