Networking & Interview Clothes

This is my favorite coffee cup.  I’m on cup number 2 and considering #3 but it’s also getting late in the day.  Today is one of those days I wish I had a coffee IV, just hook it up and I’ll be good to go 😀

I’m not sleeping very well.  I have super weird random dreams based on the anxiety I’m feeling right now about everything.

My subconscious dream mind is not even trying to be subtle.  Falling into water, not drowning but just struggling to keep afloat has been a common theme, as well as having to choose between different directions with a map full of random squiggles (that one was fun).  Last night was lots of walking around a prison trying to make sure I was walking confidently, no slouching shoulders, head up, don’t let anyone see you’re afraid.  I don’t need a professional dream interpreter for any of those but hopefully tonight will be the night I get some real sleep or maybe at least sleep in tomorrow.

Last night I actually made last minute plans to go downtown to ArtWalk.  It’s a local event where they close off the streets and downtown businesses display local artwork.  My friend and stylist Michael invited me down to his salon to meet a local photographer who is currently displaying work in his shop.

She’s one of the most prominent photographers in the area so I was very excited to talk with her about her work.  The photographer, Alison, said she would check out my Facebook page so I hope she likes my work and even has some feedback for me.  I know people make livings creating art but I also know it can be challenging especially for a photographer who’s not doing studio photography (weddings, portraits, etc.) so it’s nice to meet someone who is so successful doing landscapes and nature work.

Also, I brought Michael a greeting card with an image he liked and he wants to sell my greeting cards in his salon!  I never asked him because I didn’t want to impose on our friendship but I appreciate his help.  I’m not selling any at the other place so maybe I’ll have better luck at the salon.

My other accomplishment yesterday, despite almost having a complete emotional breakdown at the mall, was finding an interview outfit.

I went to the mall with an outfit in my head and had to adjust based on what was available, which sent my brain into panic mode.  I sought outside opinions, most of which were positive then one person asked if the blazer closed because “it looks more professional if it closes” and out of all the comments saying how good it looked, how professional I looked,  my mind latched onto that comment.  I wasn’t sure if I wanted to share a pic but I think if you write about something for 2 paragraphs you might as well include a visual.  

I think it’s professional, appropriate, still looks nice, and also still has a touch of personality instead of being all black clothes.  They’re neutral pieces I can mix and match with other items plus everything is comfortable and fits well, except the pants that are too long because every other woman is at least 5’7″ tall so pants have to be made super long 🙄

I’m getting them hemmed on Monday, could do it myself but would rather pay $20 to make sure they’re done right. *Bonus* The pants were a size smaller than I usually wear.  Yay!!**

I’m putting so much pressure on myself to make sure everything is perfect (even though I realize perfect is not always possible) for this interview I’m walking around in this state of nerves, anxiety, and stress.  Living where it feels like I’m almost always on the edge of lashing out in anger or bursting into tears or both….

I’m also still struggling with a bit of inner turmoil about pursuing photography v. pursuing a more traditional career path.  I’m passionate about both but know if I get this job I want it will eat up all of my time and it will be more challenging to pursue photography especially in the beginning.  I guess the best thing I can do is just wait and see what happens.

Hope you guys are enjoying your weekend!  I’m resigned to my office doing interview prep but still finding things that make me happy for my 100 Happy Days Challenge.  Yesterday it was these balloons in the sun at Artwalk  😀