I love photography. Really, really love photography.

Decades ago, when I hated my job and needed to do something else, I walked into my therapist’s office and announced, “That’s it. I was never supposed to be in the corporate world. I am supposed to be an artist. I’ll become a photographer!” (It’s the only art I had confidence that I could maybe do, and, again, I love photography.)

My therapist suggested I become a consultant instead, and the rest of that is history. And I’m happy and lucky to say that I also adore the leadership consulting and executive coaching work I get to do.

But I love photography.

For some reason, I only really let myself break out my camera when I’m traveling, as if there’s not a lot of amazing things to photograph closer to home…I suppose that’s something I can look at and shift, since walking around with a camera would probably bring me even more joy…

That all said, one of the cool things about photography is how much shifts based on which lens you use. I do love switching lenses (or at least switching the focus from the multi-focus lens I now have) to see things differently and to find the best shot.

Then I realized I could maybe apply this logic – and this fun – to my life as well.

I’m certain there are situations, people, experiences, etc. that I’m viewing from a stuck lens, and I’m certain that when I manage to switch lenses (or at least to switch focus), things will probably, at least sometimes, look better.

I’ll find my best shot.

The only challenge is, those mental lenses can be harder to switch, not to mention to even notice in the first place.

I’m working on it.

I’m reminding myself that we (I) always have lenses and that we (I) can choose them consciously or by default. There is nothing – literally nothing – in life that is not seen through a lens, and I am determined and excited to be even more intentional about mine.

I do know that awareness is the first step, and acceptance is the second. And I do know that I’m looking forward to new sights, new shots, and new lenses.

And new ease, joy, and happiness from those lenses.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, and please share this post with others if it resonates with you!

Photo by Alyssa Sieb on nappy