My post I want to share is simply about finding your passion and living it to the fullest.
I've always had a love and passion for Hair, Makeup, Fashion but after High School, went to College and then ended up working in Corporate America because it was safe and of course has security to it: guaranteed paycheck, vacation/sick time, health benefits, 401k savings and of course the ultimate dream to climb up the Corporate ladder. The problem was, I wasn't happy.
I sat in a cubicle, staring at a computer and dealing with an Industry that did absolutely nothing for me except keep me "secure" in having a nice paycheck every 2 weeks. I maintained that until I turned 34yrs old when the Bank I worked for downsized and eliminated my position. At that time the choice was transfer into another position within the company, post my resume and find another corporate job or dare I say, do what makes me happy.
The day before my 35th birthday was my first day of Cosmetology School with the Ohio Academy Paul Mitchell Partner School in Columbus Ohio. It literally changed my LIFE for SO much better! Granted I was the oldest student (the average age was 22) however it was an amazing experience and learning journey! Great Staff and an amazing Owner and Director (NeCole Cumberlander) made my transition into pursuing my ultimate passion an opportunity I am beyond thankful to have pursued.
Everything happens for a reason and in the time it is supposed to happen. Who is to say that if I had started my Career in Hair and Makeup years prior or right after High School or College that I would achieve what I have today as well as have a respect and true appreciation and drive for what I do! Because my start was later in life, what I do and work for, I put my true heart into and I feel it truly plays it's part in the opportunities and success I have obtained to date. From working on an independent film set, being part of the Hair Team for 2 Network tv Shows, community involvement in donating my services, working every Season for New York, LA, Miami Fashion Week as Lead Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist, having my work published in various Magazines and my ultimate pride in having my own Salon space. There are other achievements that you are more than welcome to check out on my website www.brianchawkins.com.
My point in this post before I can go further about trends, tips, etc for Hair and/or Makeup is no matter what it is, find your true joy and passion and pursue it! People have asked me how do I know what my passion is or what I like?: when you're at the bookstore, what types of magazine(s) and books are you drawn to?; in your spare time what do you find yourself doing for yourself?; what type of tv shows are you watching?; we all have a joy and passion that fulfills us- the challenge is the fear of exposing and enjoying our inner joy and passion. We are raised, taught and engrained throughout life what we "should" do in order to live and survive but we are rarely encouraged to live in what makes us truly happy.
Yes, we all need the comfort and security of an income and health care benefits and savings and stock plans, and, and, and......but what all is it worth if at the end of the day you look back on your day or you think of the day ahead with disdain and disappointment because you have to go to work.(?) I look forward to each day I have in my Career of Hair and Makeup and don't consider it work because it fulfills me- whether with my Salon Clients, backstage at a Shoot or Fashion Show or even better, when I can give back to my community with my talent and skill and provide to someone who hasn't given to themselves- it's a wonderful thing!
Thanks for stopping by and yes you will see more things related to Hair and Makeup in future posts but for now I just wanted to say to my fellow Industry folks, what an AMAZING Career we have- don't take it for granted the difference and change you make in someones life by what you do to their Hair and/or Makeup- it's a gift that they look to receive from you! If you're not in the Industry of Hair and/or Makeup- find what fulfills you! Life is always about choices- live without regret in anything you do!
Love what you do and love the life you live!
Brian C. Hawkins
