We had the good fortune of connecting with Spenser Chambers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Spenser, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’ll admit, I became quite obsessed with growing my photography business and had zero boundaries when it came to my personal life. I think so much of our self worth is tied to our careers. I wanted to feel that I was good enough and constantly felt the need to strive for more. To do more. To be the absolute best I could possibly be. I think this mindset is beautiful and super motivating however it can also be damaging. I worked myself into the ground this past year. I felt like I missed out on friends, family, and wasn’t able to show up for myself like I wanted to. As I continue to grow in my business, I’ve learned that what I value most is time. Money, numbers, and quantity of sessions don’t equal success. Setting boundaries so that there is designated work hours and family/personal time is must! Having a smaller number of clients and serving them well versus saying yes to everyone and feeling as if I’m barely getting by has helped. I’ve learned that creativity dwindles under stress. Making time for myself and my family allows me to show up as the best creative me.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I love getting to meet new people and building relationships. I love to laugh and have fun and I hope that it reflects into my sessions as well. I love making women feel beautiful and couples feel connected. These are the things that are important to me.
I have grown so much as an artist over these last 5 years and I am so excited for what the future holds for me and my business. Getting to this point was not easy. I lost sleep and a lot of my sanity trying to evolve and learn as much as I can as fast as I can. I struggled with comparison, self doubt, and work life balance. This past year I made the decision to leave my job in the medical field as a respiratory therapist. As busy as I’ve been, I have no idea how I would of been able to balance both. Some lessons I’ve learned is that it is possible to show up as a mom AND run a business, boundaries are necessary, self care comes first, and to stay in your own lane. Everyone progresses differently and no one is you. You are your own superpower.
I want the world to know that it’s possible to live in your dreams but also to not fall into the hustle hard mantra. It’s great to work hard towards a goal or a dream but never forget about your mental and physical health. Have passion and love for all you strive for, the universe will answer.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a good one! I would definately take them sight seeing and hiking through Rocky Mountain National Park and of course hit up the Barrel Brewery in Estes Park on the way back. There are so many fun little spots for food and drink in the highlands area near Denver. I would say food at La Loma and drinks at a cute little speakeasy called Williams and Graham. To top it off, stargazing and sunset watching in Golden.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I feel encouraged by the many books I’ve read and podcasts I listen to.
Books
Atomic Habits- James Clear
You are a Badass- Jen Sincero
Everything is Figureouttable- Marie Forleo
Girl Wash your Face- Rachel Hollis
Podcasts
Goal Digger- Jenna Kutcher
The Legal Paige
Breakthrough Brand -Elizabeth McCravy
The Brendon Show
Build Your Tribe
The Dean Graziosi Show
I also have some very beautiful people in my life who have really shaped me into a better version of myself. I give so much praise to my therapist because mental health is super important and at the top of my priority list. My photographer friends in the community are so supportive and encouraging. My husband for being a rockstar with our girls and pulling me through those tough times. I am also so darn grateful for being a part of the peloton crew. I make sure fitness is a huge part of my life. It allows me to decompress and also prove to myself that I am capable of hard things!
I give so much gratitude to all of my amazing clients for supporting my business and bringing my dreams to life.
Website: www.spenserchambersphotography.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spenser_c_photography/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spenserchambersphotography
Image Credits
Spenser Chambers Photography