Noted down this quote during a talk at a conference, it really stood out for me. Such a simple statement but a lot of us don’t really believe it. Making a difference in someone’s life doesn’t just mean giving money, we can help by giving encouragement, time, teaching, forgiving and above all, by showing some love. Think about the area you live in, the community around there, the schools you studied as a child – don’t you want to go back, share your story and possibly influence someone to better their lives? Invest a bit of time. I keep seeing tweets from people complaining about giving and not getting anything back. Selfless giving is purely about giving and expecting nothing in return. I’ll end with this quote with a line from my 14 year old cousin: Generosity is the cure to our fragile world filled with greed, ignorance and foolishness.
He’s a genius.
follow YIN on twitter
It’s been a while since my last one eh? The quote is from the book I’m currently reading on how quick the marketing/advertising landscape changes due to the digital age. No one cares for who you are or how good you are, if you have an idea/vision, just go do da ting; build a team and make it happen. Playing sitting duck as if you’re entitled the end result isn’t going to get you anywhere. That’s what I’m trying to do right now, letting my imagination and curiosity fuel the next few months. No point looking back and seeing who’s gaining on you, just focus on your purpose and how you’re going to get there. More on the reverse.
follow YIN on twitter
While we love to complain and moan about what’s not going well in our lives i.e. I keep moaning that I cannot find a job. It’s good to bare in mind that the more energy we put into self pity the less time we spend trying to do something about our circumstances and incite change. How can I expect to get a job if I have given up looking for one, it’s just not going to happen. If you play your cards right then maybe you’ll have good fortune.
Yin – Going to invade this post, I agree with what DJB is saying, minus the maybe. I honestly believe success is dependent on effort and you create your own luck as it is preparation meeting opportunity. Talent can take you far but what use is talent without passion and perseverance? Get on with life.
follow DJB on twitter
Recently I asked a few friends about their sources of inspiration and at least 80% of them responded with ‘people’. I’m a firm believer that one person’s story will inspire another to improve his own. On Bank Holiday, I was due to meet a friend at 11am to photograph her for a magazine feature (you’ll see the results soon) but foolishly, I was up till 3am and didn’t end up getting up till the time I had to meet her. Left my home in 15 mins but only to be stuck on the Central Line for 30 mins before eventually hoping out at Bethnal Green for a cab. Yes, I hopped in a cab in LONDON. Must have thought this was NYC or something – ended up costing me £27 to get to Soho Square. I didn’t regret it because the cab driver shared his story with me; about when he spent 22 years in the army, fighting in many wars and units. More on the reverse.
follow YIN on twitter
I’ve had a debate on this topic with a plethora of people in the past few weeks. I recently asked my cousin where he’s from and he responded with ‘I’m British‘. Not British INDIAN – I maybe born here and also not be the most ‘indian’ of Indians (read this old post of mine before you continue) but that doesn’t mean I still know where I’m from and how much my ancestors, grandparents and parents have strived to get us here. Some of my friends are for the whole ‘I’m British’ talk, I just can’t. Don’t get me wrong, I love England and don’t see myself going back to the motherland to live for at least a few decades. I just won’t disregard my heritage & culture like that, more on the reverse.
follow YIN on twitter
Came across this quote on Twitter yesterday via @JoshOshoMusic. I couldn’t agree more, reality check for me as I’ve spent a little too much recently. Must learn to transfer money into my savings account as soon as I get paid from work/freelance. Short term materialistic wants will be ruled out that way, you always have a choice. In the end, those choices will define who you are and your path. Keep focus on the end goal as reaching that will be truly satisfying – impulse purchases for self satisfaction is only short term. Sacrifices have to be made! Read our interview with NY-based photographer Andre Wagner – his words will inspire you this morning. Enjoy – have a great week!
If you want the hi-res version of the image above, click here. I used a photograph that I snapped inside a Church in Rome.
follow me on twitter
You will never be able to progress in life if you can’t accept constructive criticism. BAM, There I said it. Time and time again, I’ve been put in my place by my friends who tell me where I’m going wrong whether it’s with my photography, the site or another aspect of my life. It’s always nice when someone gives you real talk; everyone loves compliments but only handful can appreciate constructive criticism. It makes all of us uncomfortable, who likes to be wrong? Ha. When someone can give you real talk, be thankful. That friend’s honesty is to be appreciated as that little piece of advice can make you a better person. So much better than an ego-boosting compliment! you might end up releasing awful work. Iron sharpens iron, people. Think about it.
‘Just because a person of influence says what your doing is good. It does not mean its good. Some people don’t want to hurt feelings.’ – Marcus Troy
follow me on twitter
