“Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” — John Lennon
I used to think I had it all figured out. After graduating from university with an arts degree and a major in history, I envisioned myself diving headfirst into a world of research, museums, or perhaps teaching. But as life often does, it nudged me in a completely different direction. What started as a hobby - taking photos of friends and family - began to take on a life of its own. I found myself drawn more and more to the creative process, the way photography allowed me to tell stories, capture emotions, and create something tangible from fleeting moments.
This journal post is for anyone who’s ever felt like they were wandering off the path they thought they’d follow, only to discover something even more fulfilling along the way. It’s about embracing the unexpected twists in your journey, finding your own unique voice, and realizing that the plan you had might not be the one you were meant to follow.
After years of studying history, I thought I’d end up curating exhibitions or working in archives. I loved diving into the past, piecing together stories, and understanding how our lives are shaped by those who came before us. But as much as I enjoyed the academic side of history, I realized I craved something more hands-on and creative.
It was during this time of uncertainty that I started experimenting with photography. It began as a way to document my life; snapping pictures of the people and places I loved, experimenting with light and shadow, capturing the moments that felt significant to me. I never imagined it would become more than a hobby. But with each click of the shutter, I felt a spark that I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I wasn’t just documenting history anymore; I was creating it.
When I decided to take the leap and pursue photography professionally, I didn’t have a clear plan. There was no business model, no marketing strategy; just a passion for capturing life’s little details and a desire to share that with others. Looking back, those early days were a chaotic mix of excitement and fear, of trying to navigate the business world while staying true to my creative instincts.
But here’s the thing about starting something new: you don’t have to have it all figured out. It’s okay to stumble, to change direction, to realize that what you thought would work doesn’t quite fit. Every misstep is a lesson, every unexpected turn an opportunity to refine your vision. There were countless times I questioned whether I was on the right path, whether I should have stuck with a more “traditional” career. But each time, I reminded myself that life is about growth and change, and that figuring things out as you go is part of the process.
As I delved deeper into photography, I began to realize how much my background in history influenced my approach. I wasn’t just interested in capturing pretty pictures; I wanted to tell stories. I wanted my images to convey a sense of time and place, to connect the past and present, and to evoke emotions that went beyond the surface.
I began to see my photography as a way to merge my love of history with my creative side. Each photo became a mini narrative; a fleeting moment captured forever, a story preserved in light and shadow. Just as I had once pieced together historical narratives from documents and artifacts, I now pieced together visual stories from the people and places around me. It was a revelation that shifted how I viewed my work and gave me a sense of purpose beyond just taking pictures.
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that there’s no such thing as the “perfect plan.” Whether you’re starting a business, pursuing a new creative passion, or simply trying to figure out what’s next, life rarely goes the way you expect. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay; it’s where the magic happens.
I used to worry that I was supposed to have everything figured out by a certain age, that I should have a clear path laid out in front of me. But the truth is, life is full of twists and turns, and often the best experiences are the ones you never planned for. I’ve learned to embrace the uncertainty, to let go of the pressure to have all the answers, and to trust that the path I’m on is the right one for me, even if it’s not the one I initially envisioned.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that success isn’t about having it all figured out from the start. It’s about being open to new possibilities, willing to take risks, and brave enough to pursue what makes you happy; even if it doesn’t make sense on paper. Whether you’re just starting out in a new field or are years into a career and looking for a change, remember that your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
Every day is a chance to learn something new, to grow a little more, and to get closer to finding what truly fulfills you. Don’t be afraid to take the scenic route, to explore different interests, and to discover what lights you up inside. Because ultimately, life is about the journey, not the destination.
As I continue to grow and evolve in my photography career, I’m excited to keep exploring new creative avenues and to see where this journey takes me. I want to push myself to try new things, to continue merging my love of history and storytelling with my photography, and to connect with people who are also navigating the twists and turns of life.
Whether you’re a fellow creative, a small business owner, or someone who’s just trying to figure out what’s next, I hope my story resonates with you. Here’s to embracing the unknown, finding joy in the process, and creating a life that feels true to who you are.
If there’s anything I want you to take away from this, it’s that it’s okay to not have all the answers. It’s okay to be figuring things out as you go. Because in those moments of uncertainty and exploration, you might just find something beautiful, something unexpected, something that feels like coming home. So keep going, keep exploring, and remember that sometimes the best stories are the ones you never saw coming.
