Some portraits don’t just remind you what things looked like. They remind you what they felt like. This portrait of me was taken by the amazing Stephanie of @belliniportraits 5 years ago. I was about 3 years into owning my studio and just stepping into myself as an artist. Business had taken off fast and we were beginning to celebrate many successes, but it was a HARD time. I was working 60+ hours a week at times and not taking care of myself. I was constantly worried about money and business, taking every job I could, while growing more and more guilty for sacrificing time away from what was most important: my family. In this portrait I can see the gorgeous light surrounding me, yet I was looking away. I remember what the Christmas season as a photographer felt like then. Stress, pressure, overwhelm, exhaustion, not enough time, not enough energy. I was not enough. I had a pinched nerve in my back and my right arm would transition between feelings of pain to numbness from all of the editing. Thankfully, I have passed through that season of my life. I have learned the importance of balance and self-compassion that no one else can give you. No person or circumstance can give that to you. If you’re thinking “if I only had xxx (more help, a supportive spouse, more clients, more money, more time, more sleep) I could have balance”, hit pause. You must create it for yourself. That is what we are talking about in today’s Mini Masterclass on Facebook Live at 2pm EST (link in profile). I have watched so many struggle this Holiday season and I want to help you! Join me today to hear my story and some of the changes I made to overcome that time in my business journey. Maybe it will help you make 2017 a better year. Maybe it will just make today a better day. And please, tell me about your experience this busy season in the comments below. What are you struggling with? See you today at 2! Love and blessings! xo ~ Heidi #photographerrising #minimasterclass #hugaphotographer #balance