Using Only One Step.  I did and it was definitely scary but I have no regrets at all.

Disclaimer:  This is not an easy or simple step.  But in the end it is so worth it!

I'm not sure if you have heard of it but there is a popular video game series called "Assassins Creed".  Your role in the game it to play an assassin and take out the bad guys, whomever they be.  There is one "specialty" move your character can make to get out of a jam and escape.  It is called "The Leap of Faith".  How it works is, you go to the top of the highest building you can climb and you literally leap off the top of that building and into a hay wagon below landing of course unharmed.  That is their "Leap of Faith".

While my leap was not that extreme or potentially deadly, it was still pretty scary.

Sixteen years ago I was burned out in my job and I badly needed a change.  So I took my leap, leaving behind a 17-year banking career as a business analyst to restore antique cars with my dad and to expand on my photography. 

(I didn't realize until I started writing this story how long it has been!  I'm getting old! hahaha)

We worked hard at it together for about 9 years.  We finished restoring a Model A, a Model T Truck, a 1950's model tractor, a 1964 Buick Riviera (pictured above) and started on a 1957 Chevy Pickup (cab pictured below).  I learned so much about car restoration and just life in general from my Dad during this time and for that I am forever grateful.

Unfortunately, the owner of the 57 Truck was in over his head not realizing how much of an investment car restoration actually is so he couldn't pay us.

To give a little background, when folks would ask Dad how much it's going to cost to restore a car Dad always tells them the same thing. 

"I don't know."

It's impossible to give an accurate estimate on how much it's going to cost because it's no telling what we will need to do or will find when we get going on it.  Parts, labor, sanding equipment, primer, paint among a host of other things all has be taken into consideration.  

So not getting paid was a wrinkle in my plans for which I was not prepared. So for obvious financial reasons I had to find a paying job. That's when I happened upon The Uttermost Company, and I've been loving every moment of it for the past eight years.  I work there 5 days a week from 8-4:30 or 5:30.  And of course I'm still doing the photography I love on the side. 

Quitting my banking job taught me the importance of adaptability and following my passions. I've done my best to bring that same spirit into my photography.

So, why am I sharing this with you? Well, life is an unpredictable journey, and sometimes the unexpected can lead to the most incredible discoveries. Embrace change, pursue your passions, and remember that even a detour can lead to your true calling. 

Whether it's exploring fresh opportunities in your own life or just trying a new pose during one of our sessions remember that the road less traveled often leads to the most beautiful destinations.

I'm curious - think back to some pivotal moments in your life.  What unplanned moments have made you say "Well, that didn't go as planned."  

What was your "Leap of Faith"???  Or what will it be?

Let me know in the comment section below!! 

Jonathan

Mess E Photos

P.S. Feel free to reach out to me anytime with your questions, comments or if you just want to chat about life. I'm here for you!

Text or Call Me! (540-793-0798)

Email Me! (jonathan@mess-e-photos.com)