Say you can, you will…..say you can’t…you won’t.
Is it that simple? Hmmmm, maybe not quite. But this has worked for me, time and time again.
Throughout my creative journey I have always believed I ‘could’, even before I began, and it has served me well over the years.
If you simply believe that you CAN, you really CAN do amazing things in an extraordinary way.
In my twenties I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up, so I got married and had two kids by the time I was 23. The one thing I knew for sure was that I wanted kids, so it was an easy decision to make. In time, after the baby stage was over, I came back to the question, ‘what am I going to do with my life?’
A few years later I decided I wanted to paint. I simply started painting…dove right in. I never did take a painting class; I just kind of faked it, til I made it. I had no idea where that painting would take me! The more I did, the more in love with the process I became. I started calling myself an artist early on. I think that belief, that clear intention, laid the groundwork for my future and allowed me to build a career with my art. Honestly, if you were a stranger looking in you would have thought, is she crazy… she’s really not that good! But yet with great intentions, I made it happen. I managed to create a career around my art, a career that has helped support our family, a career doing something I love.
When I discovered photography I never once thought I couldn’t do it. I just did it…forging ahead…learning as I went. When i finally decided to learn photoshop I dove in with both feet….simply believing I could.
Just the other day someone asked me: ‘but how do you know how to do all this stuff?’ And I simply answered ‘Easy, I never doubt that I can, and I learn as I go.’
All the knowledge and inspiration we could ever need is at our fingertips; right in front of our eyes in just seconds. We don’t even have to leave home. There really are no excuses.
I’ve watched my children struggle to find direction in their lives. Their biggest obstacle is a ‘can’t do’ attitude, but I know one day they will discover that they really can. And for that, I can not wait!
Whatever you want in life, you can do it…. It may take hard work…there may be mountains to climb, obstacles to move….but it’s completely doable. First you must believe you can.
Are you struggling with your photography? Do you think you can’t take pretty pictures, or you can’t get out of automatic mode, or you can’t learn how to use the big, bad photoshop?
You are right! As long as you feel that way….it will never happen. You gotta switch your thinking…..
Now’s the time, my friends…. It’s almost 2012….. are you IN? Are you READY? Can you do it? Whatever it may be…..You can… I can… We can!!
Today I am giving away a spot in my new eCourse, Beyond Layers, a year of art full inspiration. 52 weeks of encouragement, motivation and inspiration……centered around, but so much more than photoshop……
I’m so excited to share this with the world. I’d love for you to be a part of it.
To enter please share with us your ‘I can’ statement for 2012.
In 2012…. I can…..
What is it you’ve been wanting to do? State it here…. and believe you can with all your heart.
I will be right here, cheering you on!
*****
For more information about the Beyond Layers eCourse, click HERE. The give away winner will be announced at the bottom of this post on Saturday, December 31st at 12:00pm.
Thank you for such a beautiful and inspiring post! I CAN live and love with my whole heart and I CAN capture moments that make people smile and move them to tears. I CAN use my photography as a force for good and help people. I can and I WILL!
Kim, thankyou for sharing your inspiring thoughts, someone very close to me told me I would not make a career out of my photography, which is kind of upsetting because it tells me that they dont really believe in me. I am not sure that it will happen in 2012 but i do know it will eventually happen & that in 2012 I CAN make big strides to get there, I BELIEVE that I will because i found my passion & i LOVE it, It is just a matter of time, this journey I am on will lead me there. I would LOVE beyond layers to be part of my journey x
Great post, I'm with you, I have achieved things in life following the same path… In 2012 I can change the things I don't like and push towards the ones I love, and this will nvolve learning much of the "evil" :-)! photoshop and enjoying my photography!
Your story is always such an inspiration Kim. In 2012 – I'm hoping I 'can be brave' in everything I do!
I can be a photographer. I have a self made art and photography study plan set for the upcoming year and your post inspired me even more to follow that path. Thanks for your words.
You are an inspiring mama! I often feel like I am the reason I am not moving forward with my photography. So…In 2012 I CAN improve my photography with more practice. I CAN stop being so shy and get out there with other people to learn from them. I CAN really wholeheartedly use Photoshop for my processing and learn more about it.
Thank you so much!
Like many people who create in whatever way I have reached a "doubting phase"……..I'm so critical of the images I produce, I need to get back my "I CAN".
Your post today is such an inspiration, I have already learnt so much from you that I'm sure that in 2012 "I CAN" and" I WILL"
I am in Kim! I signed up for your course and I am soon excited!
In 2012 I can make things happen.
Thanks Kim for everything you have done, can't wait to make things happen in 2012.
(miss you xxxx)
I CAN add more loyal clients in 2012!!
Thank you for that very timely post! I've been struggling with the "i can'ts" all day yesterday.
Sara
http://iamtheonewiththecamera.blogspot.com/
Thank you for your inspiring post, I just bookmarked it. In the past, I had always invisioned I could do anything I set my mind to. Biologist, check. SCUBA Instructor, check. Island dweller, check. Teacher, check. Traveller with students, check. Mom, check check. Pause. I hit a roadblock where all I could be was mom. Time for growth. Time for change. Now I really want to work on my photography, so I set up a blog with monthly themes and I am going to post a picture a day and I am starting with Black and White images. I will need your post this year, so thank you. Join me on my journey to becoming better photographer. Happiest of New Years to you.
http://pictureaday2012.blogspot.com/
I CAN do everything I need to be happy! Thank you for this post. It came at an amazing time (the Universe got my attention)!!!!
That is just what I needed to hear as I go into 2012. I'm just beginning to learn photography and I've got to tell you it makes my heart and mind soar. I'm so happy when I'm outdoors shooting and capturing the beauty around me yet I know that I'm going to have to be more determined to get out of my comfort zone , face some fears and get more disciplined to take me where I want to be. But you are so right, I CAN DO IT. Thanks for your inspiration.
some people wait for guidance and permission to do things. that's never been an issue for me. i can, i may, i shall, i will! i love trying anything and everything!
In 2012 I can become a wedding photographer who will make her brides swoon!
I'm inspired and mad at myself. I started 2011 with just this 'can do' attitude and a resolve to take my photography to the next level. And I lost my way. I got disappointed. I got frustrated. But, thanks to your post, I am now re-inspired.
I'm going to put your blog in my reader … I know I'm going to like it here!
Whether you believe you can or you can't, you are right.
I was raised by grandparents who instilled in me a hardcore "can-do" attitude-so much so that at 5 years old, I was repelling off gym equipment. It never occured to me that I couldn't.
My life mantra has always been "Anything is possible." and because of that, I've crossed alot of very cool stuff off my life's to-do list.
2011 was the year I discovered photography. It's been a year of enormous artistic growth for me. I can't wait to see what 2012 brings!
I am so inspired by your positive outlook. In 2012 I would like to be braver, take risks and find my path. I'd also like to learn to let go of the negativity. I CAN let go of the negativity. I NEED to be happy.
I CAN develop HDR skill in 2013!
I CAN expand my business, offer a new line of drawings…I CAN be fearless.
ok, ok, mrs. klassen … i know you were speaking to me when you said that i 'can' get out of automatic mode … : ) … and i will and can carry your completely encouraging words with me to strive to do it!
thanks, thanks … love you to the moon … always!
xxoo
pg
Live every day to it's fullest and dwell on the positive instead of the negative! I am positive I can continue learning every aspect of photography and just get better.
Gah, I LOVE Shutter Sisters…and I LOVE this post!
My oldest son often gets so frustrated when he "can't" do something, and I am often times trying to explain to him that if he says he can't, he can't, but if he says he can, he can and will. However, how is it that I fail to remember these words of wisdom for myself?
So, in 2012 I will love myself and respect myself and expect to respected in return.
In 2012 I will make the changes needed, in my photography business, to produce the images that *I* love…not the images that are trendy.
In 2012 I will communicate my vision.
THANK yOU!!
After many, many years of not picking up a camera my husband bought me a new one last year for Christmas. I know this is what I'm supposed to do. I feel it in my being. However, that little voice tells me I can't, I'm too old to try, there are so many others that are better, on and on and on. At 46 I'm just learning to tell that voice to shut up. I can do it and I will. There's no reason to not at least try. Thank you Kim for all your encouragement and lessons. You've inspired me and so many others to just do it.
In 2012…. I can…..be the authentic me I want to be… the me that is deep down inside, sheltered from the world…the me that yearns to come out and spread her wings and fly….the me that is true to herself in every moment…the me that craves creativity…the me who is optimistic to a fault…..the me who is positive and bright…. the me that is 'Suzy Sunshine' not 'Debbie Downer'…. the me that has been repressed by circumstances internal and external who wants to emerge into the light…. as my most authentic self…. This is the year I can and will be ME!
growing up my mom always said there is no such word as "can't ". that was a great lesson from her….thanks for your inspiration always!
Your post is encouraging! My "I Can" statement for this next year:
I can can go confidently in the direction of of my dreams and live the life I've imagined.
This began for me in 2011 and I am so excited about 2012~
I CAN and WILL learn Small Auto repairs!! I got divorced in 2002 and have learned home repairs and im convinced I can do some of my own repairs. I WILL LEARN HOW TO!! my son works on cars a lot but I wanna take a class. I want someone to teach me what im looking at,tho since the divorce I know a LOT more about cars!! I want to be able to to do MORE on my own!!! Being able to do my own home repairs empowers me and I wanna feel that way with my car too!!!
Woo hoo . . . just what I needed to hear Kim xxxx
I can believe in myself and take steps forward to make the necessary changes to do what I want with my life. I can be brave in the face of the fears I have of not being enough.
After 43 years of trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up, I have found that I knew deep down what it was my entire life. Photography has always been a part of me. I had to rediscover it, go digital, find myself in each shot. I also went back to school. I used to be a writer in my youth. It took me years to find that love again and expand on it. No matter how hard I try to fit into a certain mold, my creative mind keeps pulling me out. Not sure why I've been fighting it for so long — I wouldn't want to make it too easy on myself right? So this year, right now, I claim my creative half of my brain. I call myself artist and writer. I will, this year 2012 honor the talents the Creator put inside me. Thanks for sharing your story and your art with all of us. Happy New Year!
I'm already registered for the 2012 journey…so I CAN begin to do the things I dream about with my photography…. I realized I am what stands in my own way and must make the time because no one else can do that part for me. Thank you for inspiring me!
lovely post! I CAN be the best Stephanie I can possibly be – I can be anything I want to be when I "grow up"!
I CAN learn to shoot in manual mode and learn to use the Lensbaby lens I just ordered! If I can't shoot manual the lens won't work on my camera… I CAN do it!!
Kim, you are so inspiring!
I can finish school and get my diploma! I can make my dreams come true! I can live fully every day! I can trust everything will work out!
In 2012 . . . I can pack away ANYand ALL self-doubt with the rest of the Christmas decorations and this time next year be wowed by my accomplishments.
I can find a new place to live. I can. I can find the time and find the place and pack the boxes and I can move. I can stop blaming the "not doing" on the lack of space. I can find a place I can afford. I can make it mine. I can find it.
Whew!!! Just writing those words out loud helped!!!!
I CAN create, be successful at and contribute to our family expenses doing what I love through my photography, my creative arts and my writing. What I CAN NOT do is wait one more year to fulfill these dreams.
I CAN get out of bed in the morning! I CAN fight depression and win with my camera by my side.
So much inspiration this morning. Thank you.
I am looking so forward to 2012. I CAN take my love for photographing others to a new level. I am looking so forward to the journey.
I CAN allow my crafting to evolve into my art without needing to justify it. I Can wait for it to evolve as the demands of my motherhood may often come first. I CAN trust that the desire that burns in my heart to create is from God and I can be patient and look to Him to bring it about and give me direction. 🙂 (Kind of fun to put it down in words)
I can achieve my dreams, even when I dream big!
I CAN win the course. Is that selfish? Maybe, but my initial thought was 'Why post, I won't win'. So let's start it here and now. I CAN WIN THIS PRISE. and I CAN become a better photographer. And I can be happier!! Love you Kim. Thanks!
In 2012 I can commit. "Commit" is my word for this next year. I'm not forcing myself to start something new, not setting a deadline to finish projects. I'm simply fully committing to whatever and however I choose to spend my time. And photography is at the top of that list!
In 2012 I CAN focus on one thing at a time, not overcommit myself, improve my health, my photography skills, and enjoy my creativity.
I CAN do more. I CAN give back. I CAN share. My love of photography has brought me to the point that I need to do more to give back and share with others so that they to can catch the photo vision and move past their comfort zone. I CAN be a work in progress one day at a time on this.
I CAN put more of an effort towards my personal goals, not letting everything else push them to the bottom. I made progress in 2011, but believe in 2012 I CAN do beter.
Also good to hear I'm not the only one in the same situation.
I can… grow more.
In 2012 I can change jobs to one which nourishes my soul, not just my bank account.
Kim, thank you so much for your inspiration and for this opportunity. How marvelous it would be to have this mentorship!!! I had been listless and melancholy….dealing with an empty nest and what to do with myself. I needed direction and a new focus. I have worked 2-3 jobs most of my life. I never thought much about it. I just did what had to be done. We were finally in a position for me to work from home when my husband bought me my first Canon DSLR. It has been exhilarating! It's like I am brand new! My philosophy is "It's hard to grumble when you're grateful!!!" If I am fortunate enough to be chosen I assure you that I will give it my whole heart 🙂 ♥ Thanks again.
Goal for 2012 is to finish all my online courses:) Would love to add this one too.
I can challenge myself in 2012
Thanks for the challenge, Kim. One thing I've learned in my life is that when I know what I want and I put my mind to it, I CAN do it. I CAN achieve what I set out to do. Right now the goal is to find a full-time job. In the meantime, I'm having a grand time pursing my photography and will have an Etsy shop set up soon!!
I love this…thank you! I CAN move forward, I CAN succeed, I CAN take the first step in the right direction. I WILL!
Thank you Kim. I know as a artist I can & will grow in 2012. I will explore new ways to stretch and grow as a artist.
Thank you for your inspiration!! You are amazing!
i CAN document 2012…i can write about it, photograph it, meditate on it, and enjoy the journey. day by day.
I'm on the brink of 50! Yet I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! I felt like a newbie at a lot of things durning the 49th year of my life… it's never too late!!! So I know I can continue to build my photography business & be successful in 2012 😀 Thanks Kim for always inspiring ♥
I agree 100%. If you think you can, it will happen. Thanks for the reminder!
In 2012 – I CAN continue my journey with my bald head held high and laughter in my soul – I will turn my story into a book to inspire others!!!!
I CAN attend Shutter Sisters Camp in 2012 – Please let there be one!!
You ROCK Kim – as I have said many times – love you textures and your stories!! you are one amazing woman
Thanks for such beautifully illustrated inspiration!
In 2012, I CAN explore new directions with my photography as a career.
I can make it happen.
I can still be a loving caring mom and wife and NOT lose sight of me. Thanks, Kim, for the encouragement. I've already signed up and can't wait for the class!!
I can learn to sew and make wonderful art with my paints, words and photographic images.
What an inspiring story! I am a believer in the "can do" attitude. I took my first ballet class ever at age 23, and I've worked my way up to the advanced class. I've even performed on stage!
In 2012, I can become a photographer!
In 2012, I CAN take photos in Raw & learn to process them in Photoshop!
Wow, such an inspiring post.
We fill ourselves with doubt, don't we. Thank you for reminding me to shed that doubt away.
My I Can for 2012 – complete my first marathon!
Thank you for this incredible post. For the inspiration. For the reminder that. . . yes, I can.
I just had my third baby, making our family complete. I long to stay home full time rather than working two days like I have been doing. In the back of my mind the thought has been "can I make my passions (photography, writing, women's issues) a career that allows me to stay home?" This post gives me courage and changes my statement. . . "I CAN make my passions into a career that allows me to stay home. I CAN."
Thank you.
You are always an inspiration, Kim! In 2012 I can learn to let go of my perfectionism…
I can enjoy going to work every day and feeling energetic, creative, embraced, safe, healthy, respected and valued.
I can be ahppy wherever I am. I can take amazing photos to uplift others. I can find new wonderful friends in all locations.
Peace…Nancy Lennon
I can figure out what I want to do with my life…one step at a time.
Everyone said I CAN'T….all the ones close to me said this over and over again…Day by Day I am proving I CAN ….keeping score I am ahead in the things that THEY said I CAN'T. I'm winning this battle not to prove them wrong, just to prove I'm worth the fight.
Thank You.
Kim, you are such a genuine and inspirational person. In 2012, I CAN and will create beautful images with my camera.
I CAN believe in me! I CAN achieve my dreams! I CAN win a seat in this class!
Inspiring as always Kim. You are right. My favorite story as a child was the "Little Engine That Could", of course I didn't get the message at that time but it is so true. If you think you can you CAN. I can………………..let go of self doubt and start looking for ways to make my way as an artist, and do it proudly. Thank you for a great year and I am looking forward to the next year of Kim Klassen inspiration!!
I CAN become more than just my daughter's Mom. I CAN have my OWN identity again!
I *can* learn to use my Nikon D3100 :~)
Thank you! I love this idea …
In 2012, I can be more patient with children.
In 2012, I can run a half marathon.
In 2012, I can be a painter.
In 2012, I can be brave.
In 2012, I can do the things that make me happy.
I CAN find peace and happiness in solitude.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ailovesthis/6589038089/
In 2012, I CAN use my Photoshop instead of being afraid of it. I get so overwhelmed. I CAN tackle that fear. Thanks for the encouragement.
I can be happy this year.
2012 is going to be the year that I CAN. I have in the past, and I know I can do it again. This has been a tough and very sorrowful year and I have closed myself down. I lost my beautiful 45-year-old sister to an aneurysm, then my faithful 10-year-old dog had to be put down, and just this very month by beautiful horse EZ was taken from me by colic. Never think that horses are not therapy animals, because she saved me many of times from just crawling in bed and giving up. There is nothing as special as getting on a horse and flying through the pastures, it is Godlike. I had been an avid photographer in my 20's, and something has drawn me back. I have been following Kim Klassan, Florabella, and found your beautiful website. All the inspiration is drawing me in. After EZ passed, I went out and bought a new Nikon on a whim. Been engrossed in the websites and all the beauty within, and I think that I am ready for a new beginning. So, YES I CAN year 2012. You are my new challenge. Creativity here I come…..
Thank you so much Kim for this post. I needed it today. in 2012 I can overcome my challenges and little voices inside my head to JUST DO IT! I feel I have already overcome some by simply picking up the camera at the beginning of the year and allowing myself to go forward and take pictures, each and every day. Now I look back and I feel proud as I did it, yay! Happy New Year to you!
Thank you, Kim. You are light and love. In 2012, I CAN spread my creative wings. I CAN take flight on my creative dreams. I CAN be on the journey.
"You gotta switch your thinking". How true.
I CAN inspire others, I CAN give of myself fully, I CAN learn to see my worth.
…and I WILL.
I CAN — become the woman, wife, mother, friend, photographer, artist — that GOD has called me to be. All I have to do is get out of my own way and move forward.
Thank you, Kim, for your always-encouraging posts. You inspire us in many creative ways, but even more so, you inspire us to be real ~ with ourselves ~ and with the world around us.
New Year's Blessings on you, my friend <3
My intention for 2012 is to increase my level of attention to the present, so my "can" is: I can be more engaged in every moment! Seeing the moment fully and capturing it via photography, in addition to increasing some other positive habits (more yoga, more meditation) will help serve this intention!
Wow! Just the kick in the butt I needed 🙂 I have so much change coming my way in 2012…. having a positive attitude is certainly only going to help! I would love to win this prize – I am in the midst of deciding where my photography will take me and how far I can/want to go with it… I am starting to feel like "I can have it all – family life, work life and a personal life!" Thanks for the inspiration!!
There are lots of I CAN's for 2012 for me…I turned 40 in late 2011 so I have decided on some things that I WILL DO because I CAN DO it!! I can take my photography business to the next level by having the willpower and the belief in myself to do so…my husband has helped me a lot with that realization-I love him for all the support! I CAN be a better friend and CAN get in touch with the friends I haven't spoken to in quite a while. I CAN encourage my children to be risk-takers..I CAN be the best grandmother that I CAN be, since we will be grandparents in April….
Thanks again for the encouragement to say to myself that I CAN do this!
I CAN continue to create and build my world in 2012 around just that word: CREATE. I CAN do it. Thank you Kim for being such an inspiring person.
Hey Kim, thanks so much. This is a great time to reflect and then let go of some things to go forward. So my 'I Can' decrees are:- I can get past my stuff, my hurts, my bruises,and my grief and live a happy and generous and prosperous life.
I can move past my limitations and the labels that I have been placed on me by others and by myself. I can live an overcoming life not being defined by my failures and my weaknesses but being defined by who God says I am and who He created me to be.
I can grow, give, arise and smile.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
I can be me and that is good!
Blessings and love
Suzanne
Thank you for your inspiring website and words. I just discovered photography and love my DSLR – its such a new and exciting world. This is the year I will turn off the "auto" feature and explore the results through the lens. I can learn to adapt and grow! Thanks for offering your course and chance to win.
After being inspired by the blogs I follow, I CAN and will start my photography blog January 1,2012.
I CAN (and will) celebrate the little wins and dream big. One little win is mastering off camera lighting and one big dream is getting my photography business off the ground. Look out 2012, it's going to be a good year.
Oh, thank you Kim! Your post is an inspitation! I've always belived that quote and find myself to be my own worst enemy. For 2012 I can step out of my comfort zone, I will step out of my comfort zone! I will stretch my wings and see how far I fly!
oh yes I can is right!!!! i'm SO excited for the Beyond Layers to start…have the perfect journal, colorful pens and dreams aplenty!!! This class came at the perfect time Kim…..You are the PERFECT person to teach this…yIPPEE!!
I can become healthier this year.
Phillipians 4:13 " I CAN do all things through Christ who gives me strength." When I've come to the end of who I am & what I can do in and of myself, HE is there. When I feel that I can't move one foot in front of the other, His strength carries me through. When my fleshly understanding fails, He is there with the wisdom. The "ALL" means all. The things….whatever they are……they are never too big, too hard, too far, or too wide for Him. "And He who began a GOOD WORK in you will be faithful to complete it!" Love to you. Strength to you. And most of all, PEACE to you, KIM,
in the midst of the storm. Praying all these things for you right now!
Thanks so much for inspiration and encouragement. I am amazed at how your stories of success, failure, renewal, trials, and challenges with your son are so similar to my own. Thanks for sharing your heart and talent.
I am a full time artist – with a camera in one hand and paint brush in the other.
In 2012 I can take my art and photography to the next level. I can grow and expand in skill and knowledge. in 2012 I can find my niche, my voice, and my audience. In 2012 I can acquire the skills and technology needed to create art and photography that will leave a legacy. In 2012 I can and will find successful gallery representation.
With All My Art!
I can believe in myself!
I can learn how to expertly use my camera.
I've always known I CAN do whatever I want, I just didn't know what I wanted to do. This year I realized I WANT to do photography, and I did! For 2012 I CAN live life with my whole heart and put my whole self into my art. I CAN commit my year learning all that I can take in. Thank you for your inspiring words – they are ones to live by.
I CAN live 2012 immersed in a spirit of gratitude, i.e., thanksgiving and grace, Eucharisteo, even when the mystery of God's goodness fails the logic of man.
this would be a great experience for me!
Because of life circumstances, I have not picked up my camera in the past 6 months. However, participating in your Photoshop Essentials course, using textures, viewing the members creations and reading your posts ignited a spark in me…the desire the take photos again.
Then, my daughter wrote Santa a letter and copied me. I am sharing a portion of what she wrote: "Make it so that my mother find her self-confidence. I know it can't be given as a gift, but would you please give her the courage to find her way back to being self-confident and get out shooting again."
I've been journaling every morning since Christmas Eve and the following is what I wrote this morning.
"It's up to me to continue. It's up to me to live in gratitude. But, most importantly, I can appreciate my self and my giftedness. I must focus on my dreams and aspirations and use my own settings to capture the beauty of all that presents itself to me. I CAN do it! I know I can do it!"
I can emerge beyond what I am today.
Beautiful post, thank you for the inspiration. I CAN believe, I CAN live an intentional life, I CAN be an artist. I know I CAN!
In 2012, I can dedicate time and energy to my passion because it is worth it!!!
Thanks for this, Kim. Your can-do attitude is wonderful and I'm hoping it will rub off on me. I know it can!
oh kim, you gave me the words i needed to hear today, for 2012, I can FOCUS. That's it. I can focus on the projects that matter the most & get them done. And I can get paid to travel ; ) xoxoxo
I can count on myself.
Kim, what an inspiring post for those of us who sometimes wallow too long in I CAN'T instead of fighting for what we know WE CAN do. In 2012 I CAN move to the next level in both my photography and creative writing. With the help of women like you and the other members of Shutter Sisters and Big Picture Classes I have regained confidence in my photography skills and know that I CAN create beautiful art that will help me, but most importantly will bring a smile to the faces of those who view it. I CAN move beyond the many obstacles I place in my path and this year I CAN make a positive change in my life.
Thank you all for inspiring such a CAN DO attitude in us all! Happy Holidays, wishing you all a CAN DO 2012!
Great reminders! So many things I know I should do, but I'm going to commit to this statement: I can take care of my busy toddler and still make time for my art and writing! It is possible. I know it is.
I can and will improve my photography!
I CAN call myself a photographer this year, and I CAN start sharing my art with other people this year.
In 2012 . . . I can find peace — to be comfortable in my own skin and be confident that I CAN DO IT!
Thanks for your words of inspiration.
I've spent a large part of my life not just saying "I can't", but being afraid to even try. Then six years ago I lost a dear friend to cancer – she was just 53, the age I am now. When Sue died, it woke something in me – a 'what am I waiting for' kind of feeling. No more "I can't" for me. I can (and did) do that photography day I'd always dreamed of, I can (and do) share my photos with the world, I am learning PS (thanks to you, Kim), I can draw (and will get back to it in 2012!) My steps have been small ones, but each one I take makes the next one easier.
In 2012 I CAN be more creative, I CAN improve my photography, I CAN sell my pictures………..I CAN do anything I wish to!
In 2012 I will show my kids it really OK to chance after your dreams with hard work. Thanks so much for amazing chance.
I am inspired! Great timely post. I am ready to take my photography further this year.
I CAN be happy with all that I have and accept whatever comes my way. If it's negative I CAN overcome it and find a way through – my life WILL be better this year…
And a lot of that is due to you Kim, for sharing what you have been through and shining your light into our hearts. I am so grateful to have found you and learned so much with you already! I'd LOVE a spot in your class!
Thank you and a happy New Year! =)
I decided to give myself a break and forgive myself (or at least try) for past transgressions. I made a coffre-des-affirmations (chest of affirmations) – you can find the details on my blog at the url above.
Happy New Year, Kim. I hope it's filled with love, joy, peace and creativity!
I know I can because I have, many times over, succeeded at challenges where initially and often in progress I doubted I would make it to the end. But determination, one foot in front of the other, really does win the day, and the triumph, however simple or stupendous, fuels the "I can" attitude for the next challenge.
I am taking your quote: Whatever you want in life, you can do it…. It may take hard work…there may be mountains to climb, obstacles to move….but it's completely doable. First you must believe you can. This will be my 2012 words to live by – I love to read your blog and try to do all the free classes that you offer – I have learnt a lot from you. Can not subscribe to your beyond layers class – for me it will mean $52 x R8.20 for the class – but i can still follow your blog and learn from you. thanks for all the inspiration. Happy New Year to your and your family. hugs
I can put myself first in the matter of treasuring myself. I often tell myself I can't take time for myself because someone else needs help more, primarily my kids and the struggles we face with them. I know I can take my camera off auto mode. I also know I can complete a 5k in 2012 .
I can stop crying over what I don't have and start smiling over – yes, "over"…I like the thought of hovering over the beauty in my life – what I do have. I never thought of my camera as the way up before, but…
Thank you for the inspiration. I can take time for something I enjoy and not feel guilty. Here,s to 2012!
in 2012 i can believe in myself and accomplish the things that i am afraid to want out loud.
I love this post and it resonates with me so much. I am very much a learn-as-I-go person and tend to dive in but at the same time, I have hesitated to call myself a Photographer because I do not have a full-time photography business and sort of felt like I have not earned the title. My can do for 2012: I can call myself a Photographer and I can be confident in my work. We will see what happens!
I can make my dreams come true.
I am so looking forward to the New Year…This is the year I am going to change my life and I Can.
I CAN let go of self doubt and accomplish things I never thought were possible.
I can see my work as others see it & gain the confidence to grow my business into my full-time job.
I CAN learn my camera and get out of AUTO MODE! I can, I can, I can!! Now, where's that manual? (Thanks for the giveaway, very generous!!)
A beautiful and inspirational post. You class sounds wonderful. In 2012 I can become more focused and live life with intention. I can become a better photographer, make time to be creative and take better care of myself. Thank you for the chance to win!
I CAN get in shape this year. It might not sound like it's related to photography, but I could take selfies that I'm that much more proud of and climb the highest mountains to get the best views.
Hi Kim!
What an amazing post! Excited for this chance to win a spot in your new class! Thanks for this wonderful opportunity.
For 2012 I can be FEARLESS !! That may just be my word for the year!
🙂
I CAN lose weight and get fit
I am creative and I CAN make art
I CAN do a great job shooting my friends wedding this year
I CAN recover from a broken heart. I CAN move forward with my life and learn how to live a full life with my two beautiful daughters. I CAN have an amazing 2012 and acknowledge that 2011 was full of hurt but that I am stronger for it.
A few months ago, I was asked to speak on flower photography at a local garden club, hoping that my stage fright would not keep me from speaking without getting completely aphasic. I seemed to completely lose all train of thought and was thankful it was over. The garden club ladies were very nice , but I know that it will happen again and again, so for 2012, I CAN learn to talk in front of an audience. And I will accomplish this by joining a speakers club!
I hope this isn't a duplicate comment. I couldn't find my original.
I CAN gain confidence in my ability to make beautiful photos!!
In 2012 I can grow to be a better photographer, mother and wife. I can find contentment and calm in my life and can be thankful for all I have. I can unleash the untapped potential I have yet to discover! Thank you for the inspiration!
Dear Kim….so very much my inspiration. Now I know I can!
In 2012, I CAN…I WILL…put myself at the top of the heap for at least some part of each day. I too have seen my children stuggle. Illness makes it difficult for them to really learn the full lessons that life offers. I feel and know your inner worries, although mine are not the same. All in all, the holidays were full of good times with friends and family, and I'm grateful for that.
You always inspire, Kim! I CAN start a blog this year to launch myself into the creative universe. I CAN put myself out there through my artwork and photos. And I CAN get braver with my use of Photoshop. Appreciate you to the ends of the earth and beyond!
I Can~ make time to create and get the other things done. I Can~ be a great Mom and fit everything in!
Kim, you are truly my inspiration! I find great strength in your positivity…your generousity… and your spirit! thanks you for that. I can, in 2012 rise ABOVE all that continually knocks me down and tries to drag my joy away. I can become the artist God has designed me to be. I can encourage others and be a positive influence on them so that they too have the hope and courage to carry on with the person they are meant to be. I CAN at my age and WILL be me. 🙂 Thank you for the daily reminders and the encouragement Kim! Blessings to you and yours….
dianna
Happy New Year to you Kim! Thanks so much for your 12 Days of Textures, and for offering a free class to a lucky winner… You are an inspiration with your realistic approach to life's roadbocks. I can totally relate to the photoshop learning curve, but I continue to learn something each day. My statement for the year is that I CAN teach my special education students something that will serve them for life, self- advocacy:) Hugs- Barb
Hi Kim,
As always, thank you so much for being so inspiring, thank you for being so honest. It helps me learn valuable life lessons.
This post is so inspiring to me. I am someone who always says I can't. I guess it is time to change that.
I am very excited to be a part of the Beyond layers, I signed up almost immediately.Can't wait for the new year 🙂
I can TRY! Seriously, I can try to do colored pencils and … So… Much… More!
I CAN learn PSE10… I CAN learn how to use the fabulous accumulation of Kim Klassen layers/textures and brushes that I've been buying for the last 2 years… and I CAN become more proficient with my photography which will than enhance my vintage jewelry redesign business.
I CAN grow in my love for Jesus, my husband and daughter and be a light to those that He puts in my life through my every day life journey and my art career as a jewelry designer.
Thank you Kim for another beautifully inspiring post, for being so real and for the challenge to do more of the "I CAN" vs. the "I CAN'T". Need to be of that attitude for 2012. One step at a time!
Gretchen
I can live my life with an open heart and let that inspire my art
I CAN – do the 365 project in 2012!
I am a little intimidated by this daunting task, especially since I don't do ANYTHING everyday. However, the idea of self discipline coupled with learning more about photography is exciting. The course is a perfect complement to my goal since it lasts a whole year and I would like to learn about post processing as well. Thanks for your blog. I love it.