We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kara Swenson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kara below.
Hi Kara, thanks for joining us today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
I think success has a different definition for everyone. It can’t be quantified or compared. Society will tell us that success means a powerful job title and lots of money. I’d argue success means living a peaceful and content life doing what you love. That can look like SO many different things.
Whether success is defined by money (a measurable thing) or a feeling of happiness (immeasurable), it isn’t an easy. journey Happiness takes work. As does building a fortune. Or moving up in your career.
The great thing about being human though, is that we get to pivot and change directions as often as necessary. If our definition of success changes, so can we.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
As a child who grew up proudly playing in mud in the ever-raining state of Washington, I always dreamed of living near mountains equally as epic as The Cascades, but also less wet…
Enter, mind-numbingly beautiful (and less wet) Colorado.
My husband, 4 furries and I moved to the Boulder area in 2016. It’s been a love affair ever since. Every time I look out our window and see the mountains I call home, it’s a beautiful reminder that dreams big and small do come true. I am so thankful to be here.
I’ve been an avid hiker for as long as I can remember. When we settled in Colorado, I instantly began exploring every trail I could get my boots on.
I believe a little google search, a map, and a dash of courage will lead you on the most unforgettable adventures.
Somewhere along the way I started documenting my adventures on social media. Sharing photos and stories of solo hikes. And my audience grew. As my following grew, so did the opportunities that come with it. I now get paid to travel, as a photographer and creator. My specialty is documenting and photographing lesser known areas and off the beaten path places.
It’s pretty incredible what can happen if you start documenting and sharing your journey.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Like many of us, the pandemic threw my career for a tailspin. I went from being a personal trainer one day to working full-time online in social media the next.
I never imagined myself working on a computer. In fact, I had always avoided technology. But suddenly I found myself on the computer all day. It was a hard adjustment. I missed people interaction and feeling fulfilled after a long day of work.
Fast forward 3 years, I now manage social media accounts for multiple clients. My husband and I’ve bought a second business. I have time and location freedom. I still work on the computer, but my time is my own. And that means more than anything.
Pivoting is not always easy. But looking back, it sure is worth it.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Creativity is the most underrated form of intelligence. My mom used to say, “A truly creative mind never gets bored.” And I believe that to be true.
Whether it’s writing, photography, dancing, music… there are limitless ways to express our souls. Once you learn to harness your creative super powers and share them with the world, you’re unstoppable. Nothing is more empowering than showing your art to the world and having it be appreciated.
Creativity is subjective. If one person doesn’t understand your vision, the next most likely will. Never let anyone damper your creative process. It’s a huge and IMPORTANT part of who we are.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wanderfullywild.com
- Instagram: @kara_wandering