We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Hector Bernal a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hector, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I like to live my life. I ensure that everyday counts and that I end it with gratitude. Being able to appreciate the things I have in my life and knowing how hard I have worked for them allows me to envision the next step. It is with visualization that I can be creative.
It is part problem solving and part day dreaming. But you have to do it with optimism in order to achieve the best creative outcome.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a maker of all things cool. I have always found myself lost when people ask what I do. But I love making cool stuff. As a designer, I have to combine the technical and artistic mind together in order to create my unique products.
Most recently, I have changed directions with my brand (BLAKDES.S). I want to make each piece a statement, a signature, an object that will stand the test of time and people can look at and say “oh hey, I’ve seen that before” I want to create excitement.
I was able to achieve this by muting everyone’s input on what I was doing – I just went ahead and did it. It was perhaps the greatest epiphany I had in a long while. I am turning up the volume in 2024. I believe my time has arrived and I am looking forward to delivering amazing work that will make you look twice.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
There is no playbook for any path anyone chooses to take. You have to have full awareness of what you are doing and pay close attention at what is working for you and what is not.
In addition to awareness, you have to take notes from people better than you or hang out with them. Really immerse yourself into your craft, your career, or whatever your goals are.
I cannot stress this one enough; but one thing someone should never do is take advice or input from a nobody or who is not at the level you are or are trying to get to.
Be aware, stick with the best, avoid the naysayers, and lastly – work your ass off.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Things will get challenging and even be too much to handle. It is ok to take a break. When I find myself doing too much or unable to process all the craziness from everyday life I just remove myself from the situation and find peace.
This can be a long drive to somewhere secluded, a nice speakeasy/ lounge, or simply taking a nap. I have learned that a lot of things can wait.
Your health is important both mentally and physically.
Contact Info:
- Website: blakdess.com
- Instagram: blakdess
