Legacy Lessons That Open Doors
“I met Alissa at a really large New York City event. She was the only person I connected with once the event was over. I saw her work and showed her a brochure of mine. I knew it was time to get a professional headshot. I went to her NJ studio and wow; she was truly a professional in every aspect.” This was what Mark Brownstein shared about his photoshoot.
“My father taught me the importance of a good handshake, a strong work ethic, and thanking people for what they do. Whenever I get a client or I am working with someone, I always acknowledge people who help me and thank them, including those who do business with me. Even though I lost my dad tragically when I was 14, I’ve carried his lessons with me, sharing them with my kids, nephews, and nieces. I think his passing shaped my life – I had to provide for my family and work hard.
The other life-changing event was moving back east after 12 years on the West Coast. I’ve always believed ‘if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere’ – as the song says. This is where I belong.
Speaking of belonging, it is important to be part of a community that you can count on in times of need. If you don’t have one, find one. It can be a local non-profit, a religious group, or a sports activity. I feel like we’re all interdependent. COVID amplified that.
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to invest deeply in relationships. Learn how to listen. I say that people need to use their two ears and one mouth in the same proportion. Listen well and be kind. You never know how small acts of kindness could open doors for you – or help you open the door for someone else. Something as simple as connecting with one or two people at a networking event you may have been dreading could turn things around. If you show up, you can really make a difference for yourself and others. Sometimes, you might walk past a door of opportunity without opening it. And sometimes you’ll open the wrong door, but if you don’t show up and look for those opportunities, they won't come.
I had lost 25lbs, and I knew it was time to get a professional picture. The marketing people I work with kept asking me for one. We tried various methods on our own, but I felt like it was truly time to get a professional headshot, which I’ve never had.
I was so amazed at the experience. I knew I was in good hands. People consistently mention how incredible my photo is. I’m really proud of it and so glad I did it.”
What doors have you opened recently, for yourself or others?