We recently had the chance to connect with Payten Lee and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Payten, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Around the holidays last year, we got a puppy and he is the most incredible bundle of fun. He’s very smart too. It’s the best feeling when your pets greet you when you first get back home.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
When people ask what I do- I’m not sure why, but I find that to be a bit of a difficult question. I do a bit of everything. It originally started as odd art photography- related jobs but I’ve really branched off into catalogue modeling work. I’ve done a few appearances in podcasts, commercials, and some art magazines.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
I would say that the culture in which I was raised really instilled a majority of my attitude towards hard work in general. I’m from a small farm town in the Midwest where people still get up early to milk their cows before school. I learned a lot from observing my parents as a child as well. I’ve had so many days where I’m stuck working for sixteen, eighteen hours at a time and my thoughts always turn to my father and how he would never complain about his job.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
Failing shouldn’t change your mind- it should make you more persistent.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
I honestly think that technology is advancing too quickly. There are certain aspects about it that are fantastic, like the monumental innovations in medicine. But I think our society, especially in terms of socialization, will experience some very severe consequences in the future.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
At this point I believe that I have very few regrets. This is something that I ask myself often, then I try to do it. I try not to pass up any big opportunities just because I’m worried about some parts of it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @paytenleeee
Image Credits
Joseph Kellner, Brandon Yeoman, @lybimages, @traveling_h_photography
