When I graduated from college, I thought I'm finally done learning (at least formally). I've been out of college for almost 18 years. I have a career, a business and a family. I thought my time had passed to consider furthering my education. And as I grow as person, a woman, a mother, a wife and a career woman I realized that education is still available to me and I still have a right to it. It's still something I can use and apply to my life. As I get older, I've noticed that who I was 20 years ago, is not entirely who I am today. It's like when people say, "that was a lifetime ago" I really feel that now. So why would I sit by and do the same things today I did back then. Those choices may had served me then, but now I am someone different, I am older, wiser, I have new passions and desires. Life is no longer this long life that I have endless time to figure it all out. Life becomes increasingly precious as I get older, wasting my time on things that no longer serve me or fill my cup doesn't seem wise or practical. And I understand that I have responsibilities to my family and myself to make money and support others. I'm not going to drop everything and go live in a cabin in the middle of the woods (although that does sound nice sometimes). But what I am going to do is go back to college.
Beginning this fall I will be going back to school for a graphic and web design certification. It's not a degree program, and I really like that because its all relevant courses. I don't need to take any classes outside of the concentration. And it is still something that will provide me with a foundation of knowledge to enhance my business and I've always loved graphic design and its something I'd like to excel at. It will benefit my photography business in many ways, from my website to my marketing and editing skills. It may also open other doors that I have my eyes on. 😊
Over the course of the next year or so, I'll be very busy and I'm excited for this kind of busy. It may mean that I won't have as many openings available for client sessions, but I will do my best to keep as many open as possible. I'm truly fortunate to have the opportunity to go back to school and I want to thank my husband and my kids for supporting my decision. I know that they may have to step in and help me out when things get overwhelming and I truly appreciate them for that. I also want to thank you my clients, friends and family for all your support as well.
I'll leave you with a few quotes that inspire me...
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” - Mahatma Gandhi
“What we learn with pleasure we never forget.” -Alfred Mercier
"You can be anything or anyone you want to be." - J.K. Rowling