TEHLOR TAKAHATA
Welcome to the Grind
This project has been a constant journey of stepping outside of my comfort zone. Being a field photographer used to taking portraits on location, I chose to go against everything I already knew to challenge myself to a whole different world of studio lights, flash, shutter drag, and a whole lot of patience. The shutter drag in these photos represents that progress is built over time and nothing truly worthwhile comes quick or easy. Each motion reveals hard work and commitment, while different colors show that everyone has a different journey, even if their stories may look alike.
This project was inspired by my own personal growth where I’ve realized that many of the success principles learned from fitness are the same principles to be successful in anything in life. My growth journey has been my biggest struggle but has become my greatest blessing. I’m extremely grateful to see how much I’ve moved forward in areas such as my attitude, mindset, leadership, relationships, and character. I’ve learned to do this by forming unbreakable relationships with people who can guide me in the direction I want to go. These relationships are some of the most important to me and this project is a dedication to everything I have learned from them so far. They’ve taught me that true success, similar to fitness, requires a willingness to try new things, a self discipline, a growth mindset, an expansion of your capacity, a perseverance every time you fall, and an unshakeable spirit where you understand that each fall is absolutely essential to your breakthrough.
I have learned that true success definitely takes time and might be slow at first, but eventually pays off when you stay consistent and persistent. I’ve learned to push myself physically, mentally, and emotionally to do the right thing even when I don’t feel like it. I’ve learned to not let anything take me out or tell me what I cannot do, and gained courage to go against the grain along the way. I’ve learned that growth may be uncomfortable but if you truly want the results you do it anyway, even when it’s challenging or inconvenient- expect the journey to be that way. True success takes growth and growth takes a lot of effort; learn to embrace that.
But above all, I’ve learned that the greatest victory is realizing that success is not necessarily about what you get from it, but who you become in pursuit of it. That journey is what life is all about.
Welcome to the grind.
Instagram: @tehlortakahata
