It still shocks me sometimes when a woman steps into my studio for her photo shoot, and I hear the words “I have always wanted to do some thing like this but never had the courage” – and when I ask why the reply is usually something like “I just thought I am not (pretty, deserving, beautiful, skinny you insert the word)…enough”.

And I always think well done you – you finally put your hand up! I remind them they are deserving & good on you for taking the first step.

The transformation I see in her from apologizing for everything when she arrives to floating out uplifted when she leaves is just incredible. You see I have no mirrors in the studio, so once a woman is in my studio – she is putty in my hands. This vulnerability is not something to be exploited, but rather I know I can elevate her to feeling more than enough – simply amazing.

It is incredible to watch and be a part of.

Of course a makeover and photoshoot may not be the answer for many of you, but I encourage you to revive your favourite parts of yourself & embrace who you are.

Do the things that bring you joy – fill your tank so you can give & take the many exchanges of life – but please do not give more than you can take, otherwise you may find yourself depleted.

I challenge you to look objectively on how much you achieve every single day. Think about everything that you can squeeze into one day. It alarms me that most women still feel the need to do more, be more, give more.

Give more to YOU.

Don’t be afraid to reward yourself with a massage, a pedi & mani (always more fun with a group of girls), get your hair done, go dancing, buy nice fitting clothes that make you feel good, go for long lunches and mini break with your besties. This stuff makes you feel good and ultimately fuels the tank and feeds the soul.

These are all activities that once upon a time I would have thought were too selfish, and I know they are all external, but you know what, these are things I do for myself, that make me feel good. Make me feel rewarded for all my hard work, and are a little special time out just for me.

Now I find ways to fill my days with simple activities that fill my tank and fill me with joy 🙂