In all honesty, I find myself at a loss for words, uncertain of where or how to begin expressing the tumultuous journey that has been 2023. As I reflect on the past year, three words—struggle, difficulty, frustration—easily encapsulate the experience. Please forgive me if this blog post comes across as harsh; it simply mirrors the depth of my emotions. Picture this: climbing a set of stairs only to be ruthlessly kicked back down to the bottom, repeatedly. It feels like an endless cycle, leaving me unsure of my direction and dreading what lies ahead. Sometimes, I'm ready to pack my bags and disappear into the horizon, bidding farewell to social media's facade and the relentless demands of sustaining an online presence.
This isn't intended to host a grand pity party, yet conveying this struggle is proving to be an uphill battle. I resonate with those businesses on Facebook desperately pleading for attention, fearing that if things don't change, the doors may close forever. "If it were easy, everyone would be doing it," they say. I understand that sentiment all too well, but there comes a point where moral support must translate into financial backing, even in the smallest of ways. Heartfelt emojis and well wishes on social media don't keep the lights on or pay the bills.
I've poured my heart out, dedicating years to learning and honing my craft, consuming endless podcasts, blogs, and YouTube videos, not for a six-figure income, but to genuinely help others. However, the cost of providing assistance is often overlooked. I'm drained, both financially and emotionally. It seems many friendships have been formed solely on the exchange of free knowledge.
So here I am, reluctantly making a plea. I need help—there, I said it. I'm not asking for hundreds of dollars; below are simple ways to offer support:
Contribute $5.00 or $10.00 occasionally to support my Facebook and YouTube endeavors.
Enroll in a new class in 2024.
Book an online or in-person lesson.
Purchase one of the new t-shirt designs I'll soon release.
Consider buying a print or greeting cards.
Perhaps you have an idea that could assist me that I haven't considered.
Book a photography session with me.
Purchase any remaining 2024 calendars.
If you send me a question to answer, consider reimbursing me via Venmo.
Moreover, sharing my Facebook posts and engaging with them would mean the world to me. If you choose to share, please don't simply hit the share button—add a few lines expressing your thoughts.
Here's the reality: if things don't slightly improve in 2024, I might have to close this chapter and ride into the sunset. I empathize more than ever with the plight of small businesses struggling against online giants. Sadly, my reserves are running dry. Thoughts of calling it quits haunt me daily.
Once again, I don't intend for this to be a plea for pity, but rather an attempt to communicate the stark reality. A heartfelt thank you to all who've supported me along this journey! I earnestly desire for things to turn around. Without your support, keeping the lights on becomes an insurmountable challenge. I hope this post doesn't burden you with guilt—it's merely an acknowledgment that the struggle is, indeed, real. Thank you!