The other day when Weston (my brother) and I were working, he asked “How do you avoid getting burnt out from all of this?” My answer: It’s hard and honestly I’m currently going through a season of it…

We’re officially halfway through 2021…WHAT. How is that even possible? There were definitely months this year that felt like they were dragging on and we had so much time ahead of us but the fact that we’re already into summer is wild (and a little scary).

I felt like now would be a good time to do a quick check-in on my progress with my word of the year “Prioritize” because I’m finally (sort of) slowing down and starting to be able to focus on the big plans I have set for this year.

I chose the word “Prioritize” because I wanted to find my balance after a really tough 2020. Already 2021 has put me to the test. I’ve had some really awesome moments but I’ve also constantly been put in uncomfortable positions and have been thinking about making hard decisions about what I want in my life and in my business…after all the beauty of being your own boss is even though you work your ass off, you get to decide what you want to keep doing and what you want to cut, right?

Really I’m writing this post as a mental check for myself because my update is…I haven’t been prioritizing as well as I’d hoped. 

To give myself a little grace, yes, I’ve had one of the busiest years I’ve ever had. It’s obviously a huge blessing but it’s also taking a lot of extra work to try to turn this ship in the direction I see myself going for the next few years. But it’s not an excuse not to keep pushing myself because there are a lot of people with obstacles and I’ve faced bigger challenges than this! It’s just new and I’m feeling a little overwhelmed.

(Ps. If you find yourself in a season where you’re comparing and saying “If I can just get to [insert next step], it’ll be easier”, just know everything has its pros and cons so do your best to enjoy the journey!)

Like with most things, I’ve had ups and downs. Some days I’m able to check off everything on my to-do list, go to the gym, eat a healthy meal, and spend time with friends. Some days I feel like I’m running around with my head cut off trying to meet deadlines. The important thing is to take a step back and evaluate how to achieve more of a balance in all of that. 

These next two months are going to be BIG for me –– personally and professionally.

I have two more weddings (until we pick back up in August) and a few sessions so I can hopefully fit some beach weekends in!!! I’ll be welcoming a new addition to my family in the form of a fluffy puppy (is this what I’m most excited about? Probably). 

I am going to the Creative At Heart conference and I’m SO looking forward to having that refresher and seeing friends I haven’t seen in over a year. I really think an inspirational reminder of “this is why I’m doing this” is exactly what I need to feel energized and creative again. I’m gearing up for a huge shift in my business and starting off with some awesome beta clients AND Dakota Hersey Photography is getting a brand new look. I haven’t shared a ton about this because honestly it seemed so far away and now it’s happening! 

It’s a lot and I’ve honestly been kind of stressed out about organizing and fitting it all in…all while also wanting to enjoy my summer and go to the beach with my friends. Every time that I’ve felt “wow I love this so much” or been really frustrated with my situation, PRIORITIZE has flashed in my head. Focus on what’s most important!!! I’m looking forward to some time to really sit down and plan so I can be set up for success for the rest of the year.

Now for a quick, REALISTIC check-in on my specific 2021 goals…

1. Run half marathon – Haven’t started training officially, LOL. The race is in December but I have been going to the gym consistently! I’m loving my Peloton rides so much I will be sad when that’s not my main form of cardio. I did learn last year that if you start training too early you run the risk of burning out your body so I’m waiting until it’s not too hot to start.
2. Try more new recipes – I haven’t done this as much because we’ve been eating pretty lean throughout the week and then going out on the weekends…sooo, probably should get started on that. I still feel good in the kitchen though and when Hellofresh accidentally leaves out the spice blend I’ve been proud of my ability to make up my own!!!
3. Learn Procreate – Nope. No time, no motivation….this is starting to be a theme!!!
4. 2021 Yearbook – I haven’t been nearly as good about taking photos and videos as I did last year, and I also feel like we haven’t done as much (everyone’s been working). I do catch myself and will definitely do better in the second half, especially since we have thing going on!
5. Keep up blogging + video – I have been doing consistent catch-up with blogging sessions and always posting my weddings. I’m working on a plan to get the video aspect of my business back up and running, along with shifting to more educational and personal content. This post is the start of that!
6. Hit my financial milestones – Working steadily on these! 
7. The last one is a secret but it’s a big one… – Main priority right now!!! 

So here’s to setting goals, realizing they can be hard to keep up with, and constantly doing check-ins with ourselves to make sure we’re staying on track. We aren’t always perfect but it’s just about PROGRESS. Keep your burn out in check and keep yourself inspired!!! Thank you for supporting me always!