“Who I am is so much more than what I do.”
It took me a long time to truly understand this. For years, I just saw myself as a 'videographer,' someone who produced content for clients and nothing more. I boxed myself into that identity, believing it defined the scope of my career and my worth.
But as I’ve grown, I’ve learned something. Videography doesn't have to be the entirety of my identity or career. Yes, it’s my core skillset and my main focus, but there are more things that I love. I’m enjoy photography, interested in directing, and began my career with video editing which I do a lot of. Filmmaking and storytelling is my passion and there are lots of skillsets to be learned in that avenue. I’ve had a fascination with business, which makes sense, since I’ve always had the mindset of building something of my own where I have full control and ownership.
You might relate to this too. It doesn’t matter what field you’re in - you are more than your title, more than your job. We all have talents and interests that deserve to be explored and enjoyed.
Be a Light
And this ties into something else I’ve learned about myself - connection. It’s not just about what we do but how we interact with others.
I just got back from a work trip in Indiana, where I was on a shoot with a client named Kayla and a few members of my team. I’ve worked with Kayla on three other previous projects, so she’s seen more sides to me as the time has rolled along. At the end of the week, after a long but successful shoot, I sat down in the lobby with Kayla and my team. She asked, “Alright Blake, I need to hear more! You haven’t been too deep on this trip, and I want to know what’s going on.”
Over the past few years, I’ve learned to embrace vulnerability in my conversations. I wasn’t always this way, but I’ve realized that the deeper, more meaningful interactions talking about real struggles, whether personal or professional - are the ones that truly fill me up. I’ve found that mixing open conversations with humor and storytelling creates a space for connection, something that is often rare in our busy, career focused lives. But once I started being genuinely curious and truly listening to people, the impact became clear. These moments of vulnerability have strengthened bonds in ways I never expected.
That night, after another good conversation, Kayla said something that stuck with me.
“Your superpower is your vulnerability and the way you connect with others. It’s impactful.”
The next day at the airport, one of my team members added, “You’re such a light. I hope no one ever dims it.”
That kind of encouragement is rare, and hearing it was fulfilling because being intentional about connecting with others is something I’ve worked hard on. It’s easy to get lost in the day to day grind, but those moments of true connection are what matter most.
The truth is, connection both in our personal lives and in our careers, is essential. In a world that often rushes, we need more people who genuinely care, who take the time to listen to those around them.
So, here’s my challenge to you: This week, take a moment to reach out to a coworker or friend. Ask them how they’re really doing, and take the time to listen. You never know the impact can have on them, and on you.
Remember, who we are goes far beyond what we do.
Creator Mention
Speaking of vulnerability, here’s a creator shoutout. This one goes to Sam Newton, a filmmaker that I’ve followed for the past few years. The film down below resonated with me over the last few weeks as someone who loves travel and film. Enjoy!
As always, have a great day. Go out there and tell a good story.
Best,
Blake