Could somebody please tell me where October went? Last month went by so fast! Maybe because I’ve been keeping busy with photography sessions! From outdoor family photo shoots and business brand images to welcoming new babies to the studio and starting up holiday sessions–Oh, and birthday celebrations for two of my own babies (who are not so little anymore.) October is one of my busiest months! And I have a feeling November is going to fly by just as quickly. I wouldn’t have it any other way though. Photographing and editing is what I love to do. There’s nothing like knowing you’re helping people to capture memories to last a lifetime and more!

That said, I also feel like it’s extra important to put effort into staying centered during busy season. As a photographer, this is crucial for staying on top of my business commitments, but it’s not just for photographers. Here are some of the ways I’m staying centered that work well for everybody!

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Exercise — I’m not the best at this, but it really does help me to feel better about life. Even if it’s just a few minutes, get your baby in their stroller or your dog on the leash and step outside to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful autumn colors!

Get Prepared — We all know the holidays are just around the corner…and somehow they manage to sneak up on us anyway! I’m trying to make a daily checklist to make sure I get everything done. Whatever you have to do–buy gifts, schedule your holiday photos in time to get cards out, figure out a schedule for your kids while they’re home from school–writing it down helps you to stay on top of it. (And that feeling of checking things off is great too!)

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Ask for Help — I’ve decided that anything I don’t absolutely need to do myself (like shooting and editing) can be outsourced to somebody else. You don’t have to run your own business to outsource. Take a look at that list and see if there are things somebody else can handle–and then let them!

Give Yourself Grace — This can sometimes be the hardest thing to do, especially for moms. We have such high expectations of ourselves. Just remember to be gentle with yourself too. It’s okay to make mistakes, to need some space, and to be imperfect. We’re all doing the best we can–and doing your personal best is the highest expectation you should have!

staying centered during busy season, Houston Texas photographer

Whatever busy season of life you’re in, I hope you’ll take time to stay centered during busy season, give and receive love, and look at your life with gratitude!

Lots of Love,

Shannon