July 2022 marks 10 years that I’ve been a full-time creative. In May 2012, I was pulled into a meeting with my manager and HR and was told that I was going to be let go and that my last day would be in July. At the time I wasn’t shocked. I kept thinking “what took y’all so long?” I was constantly distracted and I wasn’t been putting much effort into my projects anymore. All my energy and attention were focused on being a better photographer and building my business. If I told you I wasn’t a little shook and uncomfortable, I’d be lying. Anye and I had been married for about a year at that point and neither of us had a “real job”. We weren’t struggling but we had no real plan for this bump in the road. But something in me felt like this was the right thing for us. Fast forward one year later, as a creative, I more than doubled the salary I was making from my 9-5. This proved to me that the perceived setback was just a setup for a blessing. A blessing that still gives today. A blessing for which I thank God. My advice for people who have a 9-5 along with a side hustle, is: It’s impossible to serve two Masters. What I mean is, that it’s difficult to operate at your highest level when you can’t go all in on your passion. I only realized this after I was laid off. One day you’ll receive a sign. Please respond accordingly. 🥂 to 10 years! To my love @anyedwain thank you for never wavering and always believing in what we could build together. You continue to pour into me. Our entire catalog is what it is because of you. Thank you. Special shoutouts to @_matt.ellis for ALWAYS holding me down. I LOVE YOU BRO! @teesthatgirl @pcdadiva @mrz_educated @khadeeniam @iamdevale @sobitartphotography @alakijastudios y’all are the realest. I’m forever in your debt. Cheers to everyone who believed. Here’s to the next 10 🙏🏾