“Everyone has faith to start, but do you have faith to know when to stop?”
If you would have told 10-year-old Blessing that she would be starting her own photography business instead of becoming a doctor like she had always dreamed, she would have told you that you were lying. Yet, life has a funny way of taking unexpected turns, leading us down paths we never imagined because guess who just became a full-time photographer ?!?! This babe! 🙋🏾♀️
So how did I go from getting a psychology pre-med degree to embracing the world of photography and becoming a full-time photographer? Well, get a chair and grab a cup of tea because today, we’re having a heartfelt conversation on my unplanned journey, the moments of self-discovery, and the joy that comes from letting go of the expectations I had set for myself.
As a child, I adored children and was obsessed with all the doctor shows. Becoming a doctor was my ultimate dream. A dream that I held onto tightly, believing that it was the path that would bring me fulfillment and purpose. So, in college, choosing the premed path was a no-brainer. But as semesters passed and classes intensified, I began questioning whether this path was truly for me. I slowly realized my infatuation outweighed the reality. It wasn’t until my last year in college that the truth hit💡—I loved the idealized version of being a doctor more than the actual journey.
So, where do you go from there? All my life, I had built my identity around the idea of becoming a doctor. It was ingrained in me. I knew the blueprint like the back of my hand. There was never any doubt or confusion about the next steps. But as I faced the reality that this path might not be my true calling, it sent me spiraling into a major identity crisis, questioning who I really was and what I genuinely wanted to do with my life. Everything about my life and who I thought I was felt so unsteady, and I began to embark on a journey of self-discovery, searching for the answers that would bring clarity to my uncertain path.
After completing my degree, I settled into a 9-5 job that seemed stable and socially acceptable. However, deep down, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there had to be more to life than this. I would go to work every day, knowing I had so much more potential than this that was waiting to be tapped into.
In the midst of this inner struggle, photography emerged as my saving grace. It started as a hobby, but soon capturing moments and building my business began to excite me. Gradually, I realized that photography was more than just a hobby—it was my passion, my calling.
With a growing desire to pursue photography full-time, I faced a scary decision – whether to continue on the familiar path or take a leap of faith into the unknown. Thankfully, I found myself in a season of life where major responsibilities were minimal, allowing me the freedom to explore new possibilities. So I have decided to take that leap of faith and give my photography business my all, knowing that this journey won’t be easy, but it is essential for my personal growth and fulfillment.
Every step on this journey has been filled with both excitement and fear. There are still several moments when I pause and realize, ‘Wow, Blessing, you’re really doing this.’😳 The fear of failure often creeps in, but I’ve come to embrace it. I’ve learned that taking risks and pushing beyond our comfort zones is the only way to truly grow and discover our potential.
Through it all, I have found peace through my faith. I believe that God has a purpose for each of us, and sometimes that purpose may lead us on unexpected detours. I may not have everything completely figured out, but I trust that God has me covered, guiding my path every step of the way and making it all work out for my good. Rather than getting overwhelmed by thoughts of the future, I focus on the present, taking things one step at a time, one moment at a time. (Romans 8:28; Psalm 32:8)
This journey has taught me that even if I encounter failures or setbacks, I can find peace knowing I gave it my all. I am not left with the lingering regret of ‘what if.’ Instead, I embrace the belief that every experience, both success, and failure, contributes to my growth and ultimately shapes my purpose.
So, to anyone who may be standing at a crossroads, uncertain about the future, I encourage you to believe in yourself and have faith in God. Trust that the path will unfold as it’s meant to. Remember, in your moments of doubt and confusion, you are never alone. The Holy Spirit is there, ready to guide and help you on your journey (John 14:26). Surrender your worries and uncertainties to God, and allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate your path. Take it one step at a time, knowing that each step brings you closer to discovering your true calling.
Life has a way of surprising us, leading us down unexpected paths that ultimately define who we are. My journey from a psychology pre-med student to a full-time photographer has been a testament to the power of letting go, embracing change, and following the path that God has set before me. It hasn’t been easy, but every step has been worth it. I encourage you to seek God’s guidance, reflect on your own path, and have faith in God as you let go of what no longer serves you. Shut out all the thoughts of feeling stupid or worrying about what other people may think. Remember, with God, all things are possible, and it’s never too late to pursue your true passions/calling and create a life that brings you immense joy and fulfillment.
With all that being said, I wish you the very best! Oh, and click here to book a photoshoot…or three. 😂