Smoke filled Flames to Pivot and Prosperity
A article about creativity and resilience, written from Jenn’s 2023 PechaKucha Talk.
Glass Half-Full
As a career photographer and entrepreneur who’s always embraced a fluid, self-directed life. I’m identify as an eternal optimist, viewing every challenge as an opportunity. However, four years ago, my perspective on achieving goals was far simpler, reliant on just a few steps. Today, I want to share how that outlook evolved dramatically through a series of professional challenges and opportunities.
Launching Thriv: A Lesson in Humility and Hard Work
My journey into expanding my professional horizons began with the launch of Thriv, a creative business community aimed at nurturing others’ talents. Envisioning myself as a fearless leader, I was determined to prove the skeptics wrong — particularly one skeptic who was myself. Despite already succeeding in one area, I was questioned: Why start something new? This phase turned into the most grueling work period of my life. I invested in coaches, marketing strategists, web designers, and even a podcast producer. The effort was immense, involving countless workshops, blogs, and live sessions.
Despite the energy poured into creating and giving, the return was painfully absent. I felt like I was feeding a fire with endless enthusiasm, hoping to create a beacon for others. Instead, all I got was smoke — a thick cloud of imposter syndrome that obscured my vision and success.
Facing Burnout: The Pivot Back to Photography
The resources dwindled, and fatigue took over, leading to severe burnout. Frustrated and disillusioned, I doused the last sparks of Thriv with what little energy I had left and redirected my focus entirely back to my photography business. This shift was necessary to recover both emotionally and financially from the energy I had poured into Thriv.
2020: A Year of Unprecedented Challenges and Opportunities
Then came 2020, a year marked by global fear and uncertainty. The familiar feelings of dread were overwhelming, but this time, retreat wasn’t an option. As we all faced lockdowns, I contemplated my next move — whether to leave Baton Rouge or stick it out. Before making a decision, an unexpected opportunity arrived that would redefine my career.
The Front Porch Project: A Pivot to Community Impact
Inspired by a project initiated by a photographer in Massachusetts, the Front Porch Project involved photographing families from their curbside, encouraging them to donate to local businesses and charities in lieu of payment. This project wasn't just a career pivot; it was a community lifeline.
Engagement and Impact: I mobilized my network, calling on all connections to bring this project to life. The response was overwhelming, not just from families but from photographers and business owners alike.
Economic Contribution: Together with 40 other photographers across Louisiana, we injected an estimated $1.28 million back into our local economy, photographing around 900 families and 300 businesses — more than I had in the previous eight years combined.
Reflections on Growth and Gratitude
The success of the Front Porch Project taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, community strength, and the power of a well-timed pivot. This initiative not only multiplied my livelihood but also reinforced the vital role of small businesses in our community, during a pandemic and beyond.
A Good Silver Lining
This experience has allowed me to revisit my original mission with Thriv, approaching it with a fresh perspective and a renewed fire. The challenges of 2020, while daunting, brought unparalleled growth and satisfaction, reaffirming my commitment to being a creative force in the community.
Embracing the Silver Lining
As we move forward, I am reminded of the importance of adaptability and the sweet, savory joys of creative fulfillment. Saying "yes" to the Front Porch Project not only provided focus during a tumultuous time but also brought my efforts full circle, enhancing my mission to empower and inspire.
During this, what I like to call a “craptastic” 💩, time in my life, I relied heavily on my foundation and Thriv tools to keep me focused and making the next best decision for me and my livelihood. on doing what I do best, holding my values close, and prioritizing as each day started over with uncertainty of what our future holds!
Lean in Exercises: Mind(Re)Set Series
Transform Your Life Through Creativity
Embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary and propels you into a world of endless innovation and creativity. The Lean In Exercises aren't just a set of tasks; they're a transformative experience designed to unlock the creative genius within you. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking to infuse creativity into your daily life, or aspiring to turn your side hustle into a full-time passion, these exercises are your blueprint to a more fulfilled, creative existence.
