We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rob Wessels . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rob below.
Hi Rob, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
“If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the outcome of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained, you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” – The Art of War
This quote from Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” has been something I’ve adopted over time. It may seem rudimentary and simple, but I believe it holds a lot of wisdom. Confidence, for me, in many situations, comes down to the amount of preparation I’ve put into understanding what is expected of me.
For example, in my work as a self-taught photographer, I have no formal education in capturing or processing photos or video. However, I have built confidence in my skill set by dedicating more time to learning this craft than what would have been expected in any school. On a weekly basis, I am committed to continuing my education in the history of fine art photography and cinematography, as well as staying updated on the latest technology.
Moreover, I am actively engaged in shooting photos and videos on a regular basis, both for work and my personal pursuits. When working on paid projects, my responsibility lies in delivering what is asked of me. However, when shooting for myself, I have the freedom to test equipment and techniques. On several occasions, I have independently explored new approaches and ended up using specific techniques or lenses during paid projects. This has given me the freedom to observe and optimize what is present in front of me, and it has become the ultimate source of confidence.
The second part of the above quote emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself. Without self-awareness, one is destined to fail in every battle. I believe that identifying one’s strengths and weaknesses is powerful. Understanding one’s beliefs and gaining a sense of purpose in what one does can be transformative. At my best, I strive to pursue my highest potential and discover my true identity, aligning it with my greater purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Passionate about capturing the beauty of the outdoors, I am a versatile freelance photographer and videographer. With a wealth of experience operating in diverse locations and challenging conditions, I bring a unique perspective to my work. Whether I’m shooting in the wild or in a controlled studio environment, I excel in delivering exceptional results.
My expertise extends beyond capturing stunning visuals. I have a strong background in conducting interviews and producing content for various social media platforms and advertising campaigns. This has allowed me to develop a keen understanding of marketing strategies and brand identity, enabling me to create impactful content that resonates with audiences.
Adaptability and efficiency are the cornerstones of my work ethic. I take pride in my ability to quickly adapt to new situations, ensuring that I consistently produce high-quality work with minimal errors. I thrive both as part of a collaborative team, collaborating with other passionate creatives, as well as working independently to deliver outstanding results.
Always looking for new challenges and new experiences…
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Discernment is crucial in today’s world where a vast amount of easily accessible information exists, alongside numerous individuals posing on social media. It is vital to identify trusted sources of information. Interestingly, some of the most skilled and accomplished photographers I know do not boast the largest social media followings. Following a popular YouTube channel might simply lead to becoming a clone of its creator, rather than aligning with the preferences of brands or companies. While there is a wealth of valuable information available, there is equally, if not more, misleading or false information. This reminds me of another favorite quote of mine: “Those who can’t, teach.”
Now, let’s discuss the concept of “busting ass.” Although I genuinely enjoy what I do, working for 12 hours with a camera while navigating a 200-mile bike race in rain and mud is still demanding work. Nonetheless, I approach it with dedication and commitment. During such a day, the notion of being “tired” ceases to exist. I perceive each challenge as an opportunity to excel, and by the end of the day, I can sleep knowing that I gave it my all—this feeling of accomplishment is truly one of life’s greatest rewards.
Lastly, I would like to emphasize the importance of honesty. It may seem like a simple principle, but it is occasionally overlooked.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
In terms of friendship, my friends Matt and John have been incredibly supportive, and it’s not simply because they provide me with answers. They ask thought-provoking questions and are unafraid to challenge my perspectives. True support doesn’t always mean agreeing with someone; it involves offering honest and constructive feedback. I hold them in high regard based on the actions I observe in their lives. Whether it’s their inclination to question reality and our perceptions of it or their ability to make sound business decisions, they display qualities worthy of admiration. They invest time in learning and listening, and they genuinely care.
Additionally, I want to acknowledge the strength of my mother(s). These remarkable women consistently exemplify what it means to love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rdubcreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rdubcreative/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-wessels/
Image Credits
Wiggolly Dantas Sara Price Anza Borrego State park Griffin Easter
