Daily Inspiration: Meet Jeffery Lawson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffery Lawson

Jeffery, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Paths We Walk: Becoming a Pioneer

Life is a journey, and each phase—filled with struggles, heartbreak, and change—offers essential lessons in self-discovery. By embracing a pioneering spirit, we can transform setbacks into opportunities that lead us closer to our true selves. Let’s walk you through some of those phases.


Era 1:
 Throughout my life, I’ve come to understand that adversity is a key factor in personal growth. My early experiences with
abuse, violence, and bullying taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the importance of compassion for others.


Era 2:
 In my 20s, I pursued my interests in photography and design while working locally. I made the decision to leave college and work in a screen printing shop, embracing a creative lifestyle by producing merchandise for metal bands. However, I faced a significant setback when a long-term relationship ended. This heartbreak became a pivotal moment, prompting me to make the important choice to join the military. During my time in the military, I encountered further challenges and unfairness, which deepened my understanding of resilience and how to effectively harness it.


Era 3:
 My early 30s marked a period of transformation as I completely turned my life upside down by re-enrolling as a college student and pursuing art as a career. This decision brought its own set of challenges, including struggles with depression and anxiety. Yet, these experiences taught me vital lessons about self-care, mental health, and the importance of seeking support.


Era 4:
 My late 30s is what I call my wiseman and mentor era. Life changed again with the sudden loss of a job, returning me to the roots of where it all began. During this time, I started freelancing full-time, building a foundation of faith while walking in the wilderness. I dedicate a lot of my time to selflessly volunteering, teaching, mentoring, and guiding others. A dear friend shared with me that to share the hope I have amid chaos, I must embrace what God has done for me and continue to bear witness to it, sharing that hope with others.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d love to say that life has been a bed of roses and full of sunshine, but the reality is quite different. My journey is ultimately about transformation—turning struggles into opportunities for growth. This highlights the importance of having a pioneering spirit. Just like pioneers such as Daniel Boone and Lewis and Clark, who explored uncharted territories, resilience and determination have been my guiding forces.

These explorers succeeded due to their adaptability, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to their goals. They faced immense challenges, yet their courage to venture into the unknown and their ability to learn from every obstacle paved the way for their success. They remind us that true pioneers embrace uncertainty and view setbacks as opportunities for discovery.


Reflecting on my path, I’ve faced:


* Adversity: I endured various forms of abuse, violence, and bullying during my pre-teen years, which shaped my resilience and compassion.

* Heartbreak: The end of a significant relationship profoundly impacted my spirit, compelling me to confront my vulnerabilities and reassess my identity. This heartbreak became a powerful catalyst for self-discovery, teaching me essential lessons about resilience and the importance of self-care.

* Changes: Life often presents unexpected challenges that can leave you feeling lost. Whether it’s the sudden loss of a job, the end of a meaningful relationship, or the passing of a loved one, these moments can create uncertainty and force you to reevaluate your path. I learned that embracing these changes, even when painful, is essential for growth.

* Mental Awareness: My experiences have shown me that having a clear mind enables better decision-making and helps navigate challenges more effectively. Understanding the importance of emotional awareness is key to success.

These experiences remind me that the journey itself is as important as the destination. Just as Boone and Clark forged their paths through hardship and discovery, I strive to embody that same pioneering spirit in my life, transforming each challenge into a stepping stone for growth and self-discovery.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an art director and senior designer specializing in design and visual storytelling, I bring a unique artistic vision to my projects, rooted in my background in printmaking, animation, and mixed media. My work focuses on creating engaging and impactful visuals across various styles and mediums, reflecting both creativity and a sense of fun. I take particular pride in my patriotic projects, which embody my traditional values and my sense of duty as a veteran of the United States.
What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to mentorship and community involvement, as I dedicate my time to teaching and guiding others in their creative pursuits. This passion, combined with my pioneering spirit, distinguishes me in the industry as someone who not only creates but also inspires and uplifts those around me.

What matters most to you?
These experiences grant me the wisdom to confront challenges while remaining true to my values and identity. Below are some lessons I’ve learned along the way, all while embracing the pioneering spirit.

1. Things Will Be Different, Things Will Be Hard: Life is a journey filled with unexpected challenges. Like pioneers, it’s important to navigate these obstacles and understand that sometimes standing on the outside isn’t a bad thing.

2. Braving the Elements: Life’s unpredictability can feel overwhelming, much like navigating through wilderness. Stay aware of your surroundings and the choices you make.

3. Winter Will Come: The darkest and coldest seasons can be daunting, but with mental and physical preparation, you can weather any storm that comes your way.

4. Sustaining Your Fire: Keeping your inner fire lit provides guidance and warmth, reminding you of the kindness and compassion within you.

5. Beware of Wildness: The harshness of life will test your resolve, so it’s best to be prepared.

6. Using Your Compass: Always remember who you are and where you come from. Your identity will guide you through life’s challenges and help you stay true to yourself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jefferyl.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefferyl.png/
• Other: https://calendly.com/jefferyldesign

Image Credits
Headshot Portraits by: Nicholas Roth

Frame 3: Illustrations: Rachel Maves + Jeffery Lawson

Frame 4: Photography by Nine Line Apparel