We had the good fortune of connecting with Taj Maxedon and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Taj, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
Currently reading “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield. This is a vital gem in terms of taking your first serious step into any career. It addresses the internal obstacles (often hidden to us consciously) that keep our goal just out of our reach. It has inarguably made a difference in the manner in which I approach the work I do. A quick read, it leaves the reader equipped with powerful tools they will need in their entrepreneurial arsenal.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a Hair Artist, Im given the task of helping my clients authenticate the impression they leave with others. I want my clients truest, most powerful self to set the tone in their various environments. I love that my clients can share their confidences & challenges, so that together we can bring forth their best self. My greatest artistic mentor Hillary Clifton, took me under her wing & guided me to trust what I felt artistically & how to listen/communicate with my clients during our consultation. We must understand the unwritten/unspoken conditions that come with honing our craft. Disappointment, fear, artistic paralyzation, discouragement & criticism are simply teachers. The only way to make the most of honing your craft is to welcome these frequent visitors & keep putting one foot in front of the other. Each new day will offer the opportunity to press on & persevere we must. My goal with every client (new or established) is to play a small part in their everyday people seeing them differently. That is the heart & soul of what I do.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As an artist, I love immersing myself in our local culture. When friends come to town, I take them to the places that inspire me. There’s nothing like watching the sunrise on top of my favorite trail at Usery Mountain north of Gilbert. Taking in the glow of a sunrise, hawks fly over, a gentle breeze makes its way through the greasewood brush & the birds begin to celebrate the day. Then off to one of my favorite breakfast places Liberty Market. I love knowing that we’re supporting local growers & eating food prepared by Foodies that have a passion for what they do. Next we’d pay a visit to the Hale Theater studio where we can watch various classes taking place; improve, dancing or even rehearsal for a play. The local talent always makes me proud. Finally, we’d bring the day to close with our favorite pizza of the week at Fire & Brimstone at BARNONE in Gilbert. Everything in the menu is good! It’s our go-to pizzeria.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Anymore, I feel that each new day brings an opportunity to reflect on those that have brought something significant to my life. I would not be where I am now without the contribution of so many. Here are few that stand out. First, knowing that we are all part of a larger picture – my praise & acknowledgment goes to God, the ultimate artist. Every artistic endeavor employs a spiritual transaction. To experience this daily is quite special. Next, my mother Margie. She taught me the invaluable gift that is sacrificial love. If you are to hone your craft (10,000 hour rule) – you must observe your craft, study it & protect it so that loving it becomes an understatement. Thank you Mama. Third: Dr’s Tom Harris, Tom Suciu & Todd Haddon. I learned selfless compassion, that the tender act of generosity is a precious legacy & finally, the acceptance that we will forever be a Leader & student simultaneously. Guys, you are in my heart forever. Last & most certainly not least, my family. This tribe of natural born leaders wrote the book on unconditional love. They have brought every fractured part of me back to a whole existence; stronger in all the broken places. Every moment of triumph I experience, belongs to each of them. xo
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Image Credits
Photos are copyrighted by TheTajEffect