MOC FEATURE: MICHELL C. CLARK
Name: Michell C. Clark
Age you feel: 32
Tell us about your hustle: It's multi-faceted and boundless!
Tell us where you grew up: Woodbridge, Virginia
What's your families cultural background : I'm Black, my father's side is from Georgia and my mother's side is from Chicago!
We’re celebrating men of color all of July! What’s your favorite thing about being a man of color?
We already know the odds are stacked against us, so we have no choice but to persevere despite *insert latest systemic obstacle here*. Black people have no choice but to get up and get it.
What’s a misconception or stereotype you feel people attach to you that you’d like to see vanish?
There’s a difference between being focused and being unapproachable. I’m open to meeting new people, exploring new opportunities, and helping when I can. I’m also extremely averse to letting people waste my time, which I’m sure can come across as me being “unapproachable” or “too important” at times. I’d like to be able to distinguish between the two more effectively.
To the young fellas coming up behind you, share a piece of wisdom nobody told you growing up:
Take the risks early. Fail fast. Nobody’s going to give you permission to chase your passions. Just start. You’ll be happy that you did, and you’ll save yourself years of being stuck in spaces that you were never meant to explore in the first place.
What’s something a woman in your life has taught you that has made you better?
My mother taught me how to engage with people in person, even when you don’t feel like it. She navigates every room that she’s in with grace. Her personality is infectious.
Tell us more about your hustle, what inspires and drives you?
I’m inspired by the possibilities. I’ve gotten a taste of what’s possible. I’ve seen seemingly improbable things happen in my life due to the consistency of my efforts and the intentionality of my actions. I know that much better things are on the way if I continue to work the way that I’m working. I believe that I can change my life dramatically, and subsequently change the lives of the people around me.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing now, what would you be pursuing?
I could still be in the military, or recently discharged. At one point I was on track to be a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army. I never would have built a significant social media platform or met any of the folks who I’ve connected with #onhere. I likely would have a less nuanced worldview, due to the way the military forces groupthink. I would have less knowledge of self.
The world feels really shaky right now, how do you manage to ground yourself and not fall into a state of constant anger?
I tend to focus inwards. I focus on myself, my family, and my friends. I’m thinking about how I can change my life, and subsequently change the lives of the people around me. I think about what I can do today to move the needle in the right direction.
Women talk a lot about self-care, do you have any routines or things you practice?
Absolutely. Self-care starts every morning when I get up and go to the gym. My weightlifting regimen is the best form of stress relief that I’ve personally encountered. It helps me to start my business day feeling powerful, alert, and accomplished. Additionally, making time to read a devotional (most) days with my girlfriend has brought a lot of peace and understanding.
What makes you feel vulnerable?
Having conversations with people who are genuinely concerned with my well being and empathetic enough to make space for my vulnerability. Associating with people who don’t require me to explain everything about myself, or make me out to be somebody who “has it all together.” We’re all struggling with issues, above and beneath the surface. I love to be surrounded by people who understand that.
Share something that moved you to tears:
My father and I are probably closer now than we’ve been in many years. He’s always been there for me, but at times it has been difficult for us to navigate our relationship because of how different our interests, circumstances, and experiences are. Hearing him tell me that he was proud of me after all of my personal struggles brought me to tears and I’m not ashamed to say it.
What makes you feel joy?
Seeing my friends secure bags and run the score up. Hitting a personal best in the gym. Reflecting on how far I’ve come. Seeing my parents happy. Watching my little brother continue to grow into a successful young man. Throwing parties in the city and seeing strangers having the time of their lives together. Paying all my bills on time. &Pizza.
Which woman(en) do you love to follow on social?
A BUNCH. I’m sure I’m gonna forget some gems, but issa lot of great women who are part of my feeds. If you’re reading this I’m typing these answers and I didn’t mean to forget you beloved.
TWITTER: @Duanecia, @lex_topia, @getfitwithmassi, @ivie.ani, @giapeppers, @ztsamudzi, @michellehux, @wannasworld, @ashleylatruly, @sowmyak, @timothyanne, @mspackyetti, @heytonii, @hellonecole
INSTAGRAM: @Duanecia, @Iamcharlieg. @simimoonlight, @ravieb, @alexvaughn, @littlebaconbear, @labeautyologist, @thatschelsea, @thekitchenista, @merimarepesa
Theme song to your life:
“Shiny Suit Theory” by Jay Electronica and Jay-Z.
If you could only own one book, which would it be and why?
48 Laws Of Power. Just kidding. It’s hard to pick one, but Freakonomics is a strong possibility because of how much it pushed me to think about what it means to unlearn.
What you want your life legacy to be:
“He ain’t always know what he was doing when he was doing things but he was doin it though.”
Shameless plug moment:
I wrote a 33 page e-book that gives out major keys to success for building a successful long term.
FINISH THIS SENTENCE, THE WOMEN IN MY LIFE ARE____:
Blessings!