One Small Step
Small Steps
Have you ever paused to notice how much power and insight can be found in freezing a single moment in time? Photography has been one of the most profound tools for me, not only as a way to connect with the present moment but also as a practice of cultivating wonder and awe. Each time I return to an image, I discover new layers of meaning and details I missed in the moment. The act of looking back offers a fresh perspective and reveals how my body, mind, and spirit shape my experience of the world in that particular moment.
This season has invited me to slow down and embrace the gifts of dormancy. By surrendering to weeks of “forced” stillness, I’ve been able to see more clearly what’s before me and what’s within me. One powerful realization struck me: I was expending so much energy ruminating on a grand vision that it became paralyzing. The sheer scale of it overwhelmed me, leading to self-sabotage. But then, I remembered—great journeys are made up of small, intentional steps. Nothing more is required than showing up, taking one small action, and releasing expectations for a specific outcome. The true adventure lies in trusting the process and knowing that wherever it leads will be exactly where I’m meant to be.
This blog post is my first small step. One picture (okay, two—I do have a tendency to be a little “extra” 😜) and one reflection. I was inspired by Pattie Alvarez of Good Soul Yoga and The Good Soul Podcast, who amazed me with her ability to write a blog post every single day. When I asked her how she managed it, she simply said, “It’s only three paragraphs. I can find the time each day to sit and write three paragraphs.” That perspective felt liberating. For me, even three paragraphs seemed like a stretch, so I decided to start with one picture a week. Maybe this will evolve into a daily practice, or maybe it will remain a weekly ritual. Either way, this is my first step in consistently sharing my art. One step, here and now, trusting that whatever comes next will be just right.
What small step is waiting for you? I’d love to hear about it. Reach out and share—let’s celebrate those first steps together!
* Love Big. Laugh Loud. Hug Hard. Write On.
* For those of you whom have shared my journey for a while, you will remember this tag line from my photography website ( https://danielleangellphotography.zenfolio.com/ ). It is in honor of and in remembrance of a dear student and profound teacher who taught me the importance of filling each day with things that matter most. Your lessons are still with me, Tessa!
