| I was always a late bloomer. Some might have said I was slow. But slow I wasn’t, nor am I slow today. Growing up most of my teachers knew this about me. They would tell my parents that I was capable, smart even, but I simply just didn’t “try” or apply myself. My grades were atrocious. The truth is, I was naive, clueless and ignorant in many ways. I was clueless and scared to death. This all changed eventually and I kicked into high gear when I turned 31. For most of my 20’s I pursued knowledge. I had eagerly attended business building events and read many, many self help and business book. I knew deep in my heart there was something in these events and books. I couldn’t apply it yet until, unbeknownst to me at the time, I faced my inner demons, my shadow so to speak, and sobered up. Which I did when I turned 31. I learned to dance. (Here’s a Ten Minute video where I tell this story at a local TedTalk style event) This changed everything in my life. Looking back I connect the many dots. Here’s a short list of some of the characteristics about me: –Zen. I was clueless. As in, duh…. but that’s me. This characteristic is still a part of my identity. But now it’s evolved to being an asset. Some think I am still ‘on the moon.’ Truth is, I am often in a Zen like state, taking things in. Storing what’s valuable, waiting, like the tortoise. One of my super powers is the recognition that playing the long game, taking it all “one day at a time” pays off in the end. It’s a marathon. Not a sprint to the finish. –Immunity to criticism. When someone attacks me I don’t give a sh*t. I learned this back in the 90’s when my photography business started to skyrocket. This is a valuable characteristic and essential to anyone in business. And it applies to self-criticism. -Late bloomer. Yup, that’s me. I am not a slow learner. I am in fact a late bloomer. This may come across as a negative thing, but it’s not. Why? Read the previous item again. It doesn’t bother me. I am in good company. History is loaded with successful late bloomers. Hopefully I can keep on learning until my last days here. It’s my plan. Learning from others is one of the best ways to expand, grow, be inspired and learn. This is why I organized a meeting tonight with two of my favorite photographic artists, Thomas Dodd and Brian Demint. REPLAY IS HERE |
Robert N. Provencher – Your Master Coach Marketer
“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”