Over the last three years my interest and passion for photography has grown and transformed as I explore different forms of creativity and a focus on producing content that inspires and creates connection. Social media and the Internet in general seem to create a double edge sword. By that I mean that there are so many wonderful things to be exposed to, to learn of and from, and to connect to on the Internet, but there are also traps we can fall into of self-doubt, comparison, and disconnect that can be experienced through social media. Theodore Roosevelt said that “comparison is the thief of joy,” and his words could not be more applicable today.
When there is a focus on self, living wholeheartedly, being present, and being authentic, social media is a force for goodness and connection. To me, community and connection is what we all truly desire. The use of social media is one way to bring people together, to inspire one another, and to come along side when we struggle.
Most recently I have been focusing on cultivating my Instagram feed (@kellygboylan), creating a writing style and voice that fits my personality and heart through my blog (stayrootedlove.com), working with friends and community members on photography projects, and getting out and about either in Sacramento or beyond to explore and challenge myself with the content I am producing. I have also been working with City Scout magazine as a new photographer to build my skills and abilities.
I graduated from Sacramento State with a Bachelors Degree in Family Studies, and a minor in Counseling in December of 2012. I am currently enrolled in the Child Development Masters program at Sacramento State. Within my graduate program I have been focusing in on adolescent development. In particular, I am interested in adolescent girls’ self-esteem and body confidence. My thesis is looking at adolescent girls’ self-esteem, and how it may be bolstered by a regular yoga practice. Outside of the extensive reading and research I have done for my thesis, I also love to read books about adolescent development, feminism, and how we as adults/mentors/leaders can help raise confident young women within the constantly changing and demanding culture young girls grow up in today.
My passion is to work with adolescent girls in a way that uplifts and encourages them. Adolescence is a time of change and growth and turbulence. My desire is to help equip girls with the tools they need to be confident in themselves, brave in their endeavors, and passionate about life. With so much pressure from social media and our society, I believe it is vital that girls learn they are perfect as they are-unique in all of their facets.