2025 40 Over 40 Series: Lisa Morrison
“I’ve learned everything that I can do by just doing it!“
Lisa’s story:
I’ve learned everything that I can do by just doing it! I’ve been working since I was fifteen years old and have had the same career for 35 years. I was fortunate to find a field of study that enlightened me about the earth and the world we live in, and have worked over the past almost four decades to preserve our environment for the next generations.
From being a single mom to forcing my way in to a male dominated field, I’ve learned to stand up for myself and pretty much not take no for an answer. Being a southern girl, I was raised to be nice and not make waves, but I’ve learned that speaking out and making waves is sometimes necessary. When younger female colleagues ask for my advice I tell them to be upfront with their expectations and ask for what they want. Now they are better at it then I am.
I have a grown child who is finding her path, but she is wiser than I could ever be. I learn from her about being kind and accepting people for who they are every time we talk.
I am happily able to work as an artist in my free time and am in two local art galleries. Learning new skills and techniques keeps my brain from getting stale and challenges me. And I get a real boost when something I made with my brain and my hands sells and goes home with someone to brighten up their space.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
I’m happy to be able to plan for days when I won’t be heading out to work first thing in the morning. Being sixty-something, I’m capable of growing and learning but I’m also pretty confident that my life’s lessons have provided me with some pretty useful tools for navigating the upcoming changes in my life.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
I think my favorite decade was my 20’s when I had graduated college, got my first job as a professional and was doing work that was fun and rewarding. Responsibilities were few and I was able to explore and grow.
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
I do believe all of our decisions lead us to this moment we are in right now, so I’m not sure what, if anything, I would do differently. What if I had taken that job in DC, or what if I had not broken up with that boyfriend, or maybe what if I hadn’t moved back to Mississippi? Well, here I am and am making the most of the time and space I am in right now.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
My top life lesson must be “Never give up”! Not sure from whom, or where or when I learned that, but it has kept me going up until now and I plan on putting this attitude to use again in the not too distant future.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
Well, the most joy has come from numerous places, the first from being a mom, then a pet parent, and creating my art, and just being outside and enjoying a beautiful sunny day surrounded by green trees and blue sky!
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
Brandi was so supportive and encouraging and it was a pleasure working with her.
You are more beautiful than you know!
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Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.