I know – it’s hard. It’s hard when you start to worry about what other people might think. It’s hard to convince yourself to share something without knowing the final outcome. Right now, you might be talking yourself out of sharing your heart with someone and I want to urge you to push through and share anyway. Sharing will look a little different for everyone. For some, that may mean calling your friend and venting about something that you’re going through. For others, it may be writing a blog post or sharing news on social media. It may mean getting a group of friends together to talk about a big step you’re taking in your business. I don’t know what your big “thing” is, but when the time is right, I think you should share.

Now I’m not encouraging anyone to “over-share” or to share with the wrong people. Maybe all of your Facebook friends don’t need to see a photo of every meal you eat. Maybe your best friend’s cousin’s boyfriend doesn’t care about the next step you’re taking in your business. But think about the awesome impact you could have if you share the right things with the right people. A couple weeks ago, I participated in a Periscope birth photography challenge. If you’ve ever “scoped,” you know how nerve-wracking it can be to push that “broadcast” button. But I did it – every day for two weeks. And after those two weeks, I felt great! I felt more confident. I felt like I had a “tribe” of women who were cheering me on. I’m so happy I decided to share my business goals and my passion for birth photography.

Since then, I’ve had multiple people leave me notes on social media or send me texts telling me how excited they are for my new business venture. I even had a photographer friend ask me for advice on shooting her first birth! It’s been so encouraging and has really solidified my desire to pursue birth photography.

Last fall I stepped out of my comfort zone and decided to facilitate a little Bible study on a Sunday during a photography workshop I was attending. I was SO nervous to lead even just this little session, but it was oh so good! I don’t know if I’ve ever been more happy that I stepped out of my “comfort zone.” Our little group got together, read some scripture, and sang praise songs on top of a mountain. It was so wonderful and I’ll never forget that moment. I don’t think I’ve ever felt closer to God and His creation.

All this to say it’s totally worth it to “step into your fear.” I’d love to hear about a time you stepped into your fear or something you’re thinking about doing. Leave a comment below or email me at lauren@laurenjollyphotography.com so I can encourage you in your journey!

I hope you all have an incredible Tuesday!