Everyone has a dream. Everyone has something that they hope for and work towards. Everyone at one time or another has had something they yearned and wished for. I know I have! But I’ve also become discouraged, impatient, and lost sight while working towards a dream. I’m sure many of you have experienced this as well.
For example, when I was six or seven years old I remember seeing videos of amazing concert pianists and wanting to play music like them! I told my mom I wanted to play and I was soon signed up for piano lessons. I found out that piano is a LOT of work! I didn’t enjoy practicing and often got frustrated with myself. I played for about six years and ended up quitting. Looking back, I can see that my problem was I expected myself to become like those concert pianists in just a few months! I wanted to go from a beginner to a pro without working and practicing and sacrificing time. And now I wish I would’ve stuck with it and gained a new talent.
When I was in 8th grade I discovered I really enjoyed photography. I took some classes, practiced on friends, and was always trying to think of creative, fun things to try. I dreamed of owning my own photography business! The problem was I didn’t have my own camera and cameras are expensive. When I turned sixteen, I got my first job working at a fast food company. I didn’t like it but my goal to earn enough to buy a camera kept me motivated.
Fast forward a couple years, I graduated high school, attended college as a photography major, and served an LDS mission. Through all these stages, I was still too short in time and money to get a camera. When I returned, I got engaged to my high school sweetheart and told him how I still dreamed of being a photographer. He was very encouraging and supportive. He told me he thought I had talent and should go for it! I knew I wanted to try and decided that I would eventually get a camera. Someday.
A few months later my fiance surprised me with my very own camera!!!! I couldn’t believe it! I was unbelievably excited!! He said he knew how much it meant to me. And something I’ll never forget that he said was, “I believe in you.” That one simple statement was enough to make me go after my long sought dream! Having someone you care about so much have that much faith and belief in you will change your whole world!
I currently have my own business and it has been so fun! My now husband is my assistant and we love working together. But I still have those days where I am self doubting, frustrated, or impatient. I expect myself to be perfect and get upset when I’m not. Owning a business is a lot of work! It takes a lot of time, energy, money, and hard work to keep it running. My amazing husband has been my support through it all. He encourages me everyday and is always willing to help.
I never thought that starting my own business would teach me so much about hard work and dedication. I’ve learned that I don’t have to be perfect! I will be learning new things for a long time. And that like a concert pianist, I won’t become an expert overnight. I’ve learned to be patient with myself. I’ve learned that one person believing in you is enough to keep you going. And I’m so grateful to be having these experiences!
To follow Cassie’s photography journey, check out her website at: cassieglazierphotography.com