Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lauren Connolly. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lauren, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I struggled with finding my purpose for a long time. In high school, I had a deep love for both art and science, particularly biology. However, I resisted pursuing a science degree because many of the math-related subjects did not interest me. In hindsight, I now realize that this was my ADHD rearing its head, making it challenging to engage with topics that didn’t captivate me immediately.
Initially, I decided to explore graphic design in college. However, the idea of creating art based on others’ specifications felt stifling, and I quickly fell into a creative block that lasted for quite some time. Seeking a different path, I took a part-time job as a guest service employee at an aquarium. This job unexpectedly opened doors for me. I quickly moved up the ranks, taking on roles such as overnight coordinator and promotions coordinator. In these positions, I was able to merge my passion for animals with my creative skills.
After a few years working on the floor and as a dry-side presenter for dive shows, I developed a strong desire to dive myself. I wanted to be in the water with the sharks, not just talking about them from the sidelines. I earned my open water certification and, when a paid diver was leaving her role, she encouraged me to apply for the position. I got the job and spent several years as a paid diver. However, over time, I became wrapped up in the hustle culture. I found myself focusing more on fixing equipment and teaching new divers—tasks that did not ignite my passion.
Towards the end of my career at the aquarium, I attended a class on Interpretation at the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. This experience rekindled my love for educating the public about animals. But then, the pandemic hit, and I left my job. During this period, I spent a significant amount of time in nature with my camera and watercolors, which proved to be very healing. I had not realized how much not following my passion and chasing this other dream almost literally ruined my life. This immersion in nature led me to create a business called Wild Development Studios, which combines wildlife art and outdoor adventures to inspire others to explore the natural world.
The journey to building Wild Development Studios took about four years. It involved experimenting with photography, watercolor painting, and several company names. I even started a podcast along the way. Eventually, I found a way to combine all my passions—art, nature, and education—into a meaningful venture that inspires others as well.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Lauren Connolly is the founder of Wild Developments Studio and is on a mission to inspire people to connect with nature through visual arts and storytelling by creating unique ways to get outside.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s too easy to become consumed by the never-ending rush of tasks. Amid this whirlwind, we often forget our profound connection with the natural world. Spending time outdoors offers a sanctuary from the chaos, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of presence in the moment.
However, with the demands of modern life, finding the time to immerse ourselves in nature can be a challenge. This is where visual arts serve as a crucial bridge, allowing us to reconnect with the tranquility and beauty of the outdoors, even when we’re stuck indoors. Wild Developments Studio recognizes the importance of this connection and uses visual arts to cultivate it further. By offering a variety of artistic experiences, Wild Developments Studio empowers individuals to tap into their creativity and reconnect with the natural world. Wild Developments Podcast extends this mission by using storytelling to inspire listeners to embrace outdoor adventures and provide valuable tips and tricks for their journey.
Lauren Connolly is a multidisciplinary artist, merging her passions for art and biology nurtured since childhood. She honed her skills in watercolor and photography while pursuing a Maritime Studies degree. Certified as an Interpretive Guide, Naturalist, and S.C.U.B.A. Instructor, Lauren spent over a decade and a half at a corporation, organizing Conservation Trips, before co-founding JL Aerial Views (JLAV) with her husband, John. Under JLAV, she directs Wild Developments Studio, producing vibrant wildlife art and hosting the Wild Developments Podcast, inspiring nature connection through storytelling. Based in Greater Cincinnati, Lauren likes to hike, bike, kayak, and dive with her family. Her artwork can be found on ETSY @WildDevelopmentsStudio and on her website www.WildDevelopmentsStudio.com
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey were resilience, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning. Each of these played a critical role in shaping my path and ultimately helped me find my purpose.
Resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward despite challenges. Throughout my journey, I faced numerous obstacles, from struggling with ADHD to feeling creatively blocked in college and navigating the ups and downs of various job roles. Resilience helped me persevere through these tough times. My advice for developing resilience is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Do not be afraid to fail. Each failure is a stepping stone to success, providing valuable lessons that contribute to personal growth. Cultivate a mindset that views challenges as opportunities rather than roadblocks, and remember that persistence pays off in the long run.
Adaptability
Adaptability is the ability to adjust to new situations and environments with ease. My career path took several unexpected turns, from graphic design to working at an aquarium, and finally to building my own business. Being adaptable allowed me to thrive in diverse roles and discover what truly resonated with me. For those early in their journey, I recommend making decisions and acting on them without fear. Waiting around and wishing you did something will only lead to regret. You won’t know if you like something until you try it. Embrace new experiences with an open mind, and be willing to pivot when necessary. Each experience, whether positive or negative, teaches you something valuable about yourself and helps you grow.
Passion for Continuous Learning
A passion for continuous learning involves a deep curiosity and a desire to keep expanding your knowledge and skills. Throughout my career, I sought out opportunities to learn, whether it was getting my diving certification, attending an Interpretation class, or experimenting with photography and watercolor painting. This thirst for knowledge kept me engaged and helped me discover new passions. For those just starting out, I advise having patience in your journey and trying to enjoy it along the way. Your job is just that—a job. While it’s important to be dedicated and work hard, remember that you can and will be replaced at work, but you cannot be replaced at home. Prioritize your well-being and personal interests outside of work. Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself if your current path no longer aligns with your passions and values.
Practical Tips for Developing These Qualities
Embrace Failure and Learn from It: Don’t shy away from taking risks. Each failure is a learning experience. Reflect on what went wrong and how you can improve next time.
Take Action and Make Decisions: Don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis. Make a decision, act on it, and learn from the outcome. Even if it doesn’t work out, you’ll gain valuable insights.
Seek Continuous Improvement: Always look for ways to improve your skills and knowledge. Take courses, read books, attend workshops, and stay curious. The more you learn, the more equipped you are to adapt to new opportunities.
Balance Work and Personal Life: Remember that your job is just one part of your life. Make time for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of work. This balance is crucial for long-term happiness and well-being.
Be Open to Change: Don’t be afraid to pivot if you realize that your current path isn’t fulfilling. Reinvent yourself as needed and stay true to your evolving passions and interests.
By focusing on these qualities and applying these practical tips, you can navigate your journey with greater confidence and find a path that truly resonates with you.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One book that has played a crucial role in my development is “Will to Wild” by Shelby Stanger. This book resonated deeply with me and my personal journey, providing numerous valuable insights that have shaped my path and perspective.
Impactful Nuggets of Wisdom from “Will to Wild”
Embrace the Unknown:
Shelby Stanger emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. This resonated with me because much of my journey involved venturing into uncharted territory, whether it was shifting from graphic design to working at an aquarium or diving into the world of wildlife art. Embracing the unknown can be daunting, but it is often where the most growth and discovery occur.
Find Your Wild:
The book encourages readers to find their own “wild,” which means discovering what makes you feel most alive and connected to the world. For me, this was a reminder to pursue my passion for nature and wildlife, which eventually led to the creation of Wild Development Studios. Finding your wild is about tapping into what truly excites and motivates you, and integrating that into your life and work.
Persistence Pays Off:
Stanger’s stories of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges reminded me of the importance of persistence. Throughout my journey, there were many moments of doubt and difficulty. However, pushing through these tough times and staying committed to my goals was essential for growth and success. The book reinforced the idea that persistence, even when the path is unclear, ultimately leads to meaningful outcomes.
Connection to Nature:
A significant theme in “Will to Wild” is the profound connection between humans and nature. This theme deeply resonated with me, as spending time in nature with my camera and watercolors was incredibly healing during a challenging period in my life. The book validated my belief in the therapeutic power of nature and inspired me to share this connection with others through my work.
Authenticity and Passion:
Stanger advocates for living authentically and pursuing your passions wholeheartedly. This message struck a chord with me, particularly during times when I felt pressured to conform to conventional career paths. Her encouragement to stay true to oneself and follow one’s passions reaffirmed my decision to build a business that reflects my love for wildlife, art, and education.
How “Will to Wild” Resonated with My Personal Journey
“Will to Wild” resonated with me on multiple levels. It mirrored my own experiences of seeking purpose and fulfillment through unconventional paths. The book’s emphasis on resilience, the courage to embrace uncertainty, and the importance of connecting with nature all echoed my journey from graphic design to working at an aquarium and eventually founding Wild Development Studios. It reinforced the notion that following one’s passion, even when it seems impractical or challenging, can lead to a deeply satisfying and impactful life.
In summary, “Will to Wild” by Shelby Stanger has been a guiding light in my development, offering wisdom that aligns with my experiences and aspirations. It serves as a powerful reminder to embrace the unknown, persist through challenges, and stay true to one’s passions and connection to nature.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wilddevelopmentsstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilddevelopmentsstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurenConnollyPhotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-connolly-1abb072aa/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wilddevelopmentsstudio
Image Credits
They are my photographs
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
