The main thing holding you back in YOU!
We just saw a wave of exciting tech announcements — the iPhone 17, the new Canon C50, and plenty more rolling out this September. And while all of that is amazing, here’s the truth: none of it matters if you don’t start telling your story.
Too often, we hold ourselves back because we’re waiting for the perfect setup. The best lights. The next upgrade. A professional editor. The dream studio. We tell ourselves: “When I have x then I’ll start.” But here’s the problem — if you wait for perfect, you’ll never begin.
The real power isn’t in your gear. It’s in your story.
Every creator you admire started somewhere. They didn’t launch with cinematic cameras and flawless production. They started simple. They started with what they had. And then they grew.
I remember my early days in social media — heading into the mountains with nothing but an iPhone 4, posting little square photos on Instagram. I didn’t have a camera. I didn’t have an audience. I didn’t even consider myself a photographer. I just shared what I loved and connected with people. Over time, consistency built skill, connection, and eventually opportunities.
If you want to move forward, the most important step is the first one: start
Here are 3 things that might be holding you back — and how to push past them:
Waiting for the right gear or skill— Don’t. You already have what you need. Start with your phone. Start with what’s in your hand today. You can scale up as you go. You will grow in your abilities with time. You will get better on all fronts! Don’t worry if you’re not perfect. We are all work in progress.
Tell your story — Your story matters. Like will always attract like. These apps are designed to connect you with those interested in the same things. So what do you share? Share the things you’d talk about over coffee with a friend. Share what excites you. Share what you’re learning. Tips could be “this is the hardest lesson I ever learned’ or “Things I would do differently if I could do it all again’. Connection begins with you!
Information overload— Social media is full of tips and tricks, but too much can leave you paralyzed. Everyone has a different take and we have saved folders of countless posts. Take small pieces of advice, but don’t forget the most important thing: be yourself. Define your style and just commit to one thing!!! And make sure that you are your most authentic self because if you don’t, you will continually get knocked around with insecurities and doubts questioning your approach.
You don’t know where you’ll be in five years. But I can tell you this: you won’t get there by watching and waiting.
So, here’s my encouragement for you this week: whatever your goal, dream, or vision is don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Don’t compare it. Just Start.
BUCKET LIST TRAVEL
Two Capes Lookout, Oregon.
Add Two Capes Lookout to your destination list. These mirrored cabins and domes are located near Pacific City along the Oregon Coast and are the perfect getaway. Just steps from the ocean, enjoy coastal views in this amazing glamping environment.You can read my blog here all about Two Capes and book your stay. They even gave me a code to get you 20% off your booking.
Use code bakken20 (all lowercase) on booking from now until end of September with stays from now until the end of 2025
INTRODUCING MENTORSHIP
I’m excited to share that I’ve launched two brand-new mentorship offers this week — designed to help you gain clarity, build momentum, and step fully into your potential as a creator. These are for those who are ready to invest in themselves.
Clarity Call
Need direction around your brand or business? Start here. This 90-minute deep dive with me will give you the insight, strategy, and next steps you need to move forward with confidence. I will dream with you, elevate your thinking and and help you get clarity around your next steps for your brand, business and social media goals.
The 10K Connected Creator
This is my biggest and boldest program yet!! A 10-week one-on-one mentorship built to help you scale from side hustle to full-time creator. Together, we’ll design the roadmap to grow your business to $10K+ months, create opportunities, and connect you with the right people to accelerate your journey.
Over the years, I’ve built businesses, networks, and partnerships from the ground up. What started as a dream and hustle has become my full-time career- and now I’m ready to help YOU do the same.
I believe everyone has a superpower. You may not even see yours yet. As you lean into this, I can help turn you into a 10K a month connected creator. The connection matters because this is one of the greatest assets to your success.
If you’re serious about turning your passion into profit, the time is now. Let’s make that side hustle your full time job!
Check out the mentorship details here.
Thank you again to everyone following the Way Forward journey. We are a growing community.
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Have the best week and remember, start with what you have! Here is a picture to brighten your day. Go get em!
Two Jack Lake, Banff Alberta.