Life, photography and commitment

William Hutchison Murray: “Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. I have learned a deep respect for one of Goethe's couplets: ‘
Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it!’”

Anyone who seriously intends to have a life that rises above mediocrity has got to commit to excellence; there is no other way. Focus, discipline and relentless, sustained effort are the lifeblood of a life well lived, intentions made manifest and the sense of accomplishment and contentment that comes with goals and dreams brought to life.

Photography is like that, too.

Achieving excellence in any endeavor, in any facet of life is never easy; it is not something that everyone is willing to commit to and stick to. Researchers at Scranton University found that 98% of people live and ultimately die without realizing their dreams. Living a life of unfulfilled dreams, the vast majority of people are steeped in varying degrees of discord, lack, frustration and sadness. If that is not tragic, what is?

Don’t settle for less, whether it’s in life or in your photography.

Don’t be a member of the 98% club. Hellen Keller once famously said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” We owe it to ourselves, our loved ones and to the world to be a two percenter.