I am NOT a reader. I used to be, as a kid. I loved to read and could finish a book in a day. But after college and nursing school, I was definitely tapped out on reading. My fiancé is an avid reader. He’s always suggesting books to me and I’m thinking, Ok, but can’t you just summarize it for me? I honestly couldn’t tell you in confidence when the last time was that I actually finished a book. Sure, I have started dozens, but I rarely finish them. It has been at least ten years since I finished a book and I wanna say that it was The Five People You Meet in Heaven.

Last night, I closed a finished book. What is happening? Two months ago, I was bragging about getting through five pages of a book. I guess I’ve just gotten used to consuming information quickly, through a podcast, audiobook, or video. I’m not great at sitting still to begin with, and I’m always stressing about all the things I need to do. But this book (on marketing) felt like work, so it gave me an excuse to step away from the computer and still do something productive. I don’t know if it was the book itself or just feeling like I’m ready to take the next step in my business and need more tools to do that. Either way, I’m elated that I actually finished a book. (Can you tell?)

In the past year, I’ve purchased several books: The Handmaids Tale, The Body Keeps the Score, Atomic Habits, books on architecture and real estate, a book on running a successful photography business, a book on social media following (which I’m terrible at), and a couple books on marketing. One of those books got the honor of being read cover-to-cover. I think I made it no more than ten pages into the other books.

Maybe it was just chance that I picked up that book when I finally had enough capacity to retain more information and implement it. It’s been so hard for me to feel comfortable reading because I feel so overwhelmed with tasks and responsibilities. But maybe I’m finally finding some solid balance in my life. When I first went full-time, I was still trying to find balance between household tasks, childcare stuff, time with Garrott, work, and a social life. Now, I feel like everything is in perfect orbit. I don’t know how I did that, but my best guess is that it’s happening naturally because I’m finally content with my career and life path.

Despite still working 48-56 hours a week, I feel in control. I can dictate when things are done and what things can wait. If I’m sick (which is a lot – thanks, kid), I can take some time to rest instead of having to call in and feel guilty. If my son has a school thing, I can usually be there. If someone needs a last minute family session, I can squeeze them in for a morning spot.

Yes, I’m still editing for about twenty hours a week, marketing for about 6, meeting with clients for about 4, managing books for about 6, and shooting between 5 and 15 hours a week. But it’s that flexibility that keeps the engine well-oiled. I can spend a full day on books or an hour a day.

So, the fact that I finished a book just emphasizes the fact that I am on the right track and I’m thrilled about that.

Recommend a book for me to read next!