Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Ernest. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Danielle, really appreciate your meeting with us today to talk about some particularly personal topics. It means a lot because so many in the community are going through circumstances where your insights and experience and lessons might help, so thank you so much in advance for sharing. The first question we have is about divorce and how you overcame divorce and didn’t allow the trauma of divorce to derail your vision for your life and career.
Overcoming divorce has been one of the most challenging experiences in my life. It was a period of growth, heartbreak, and learning. I focused on healing and becoming a better person.
These experiences led to significant changes, personal growth, and ample time for self-reflection. Through introspection, I discovered aspects of myself that I never knew existed. I learned the value of stillness and active listening and that pride comes before a fall.
I learned to manage my fight-or-flight response and became better at being present for others. Despite the pain, I consciously chose to make this a time of renewal. I embarked on amazing adventures and accomplished feats that will stay with me forever. I refused to let my divorce define me and discovered that it’s possible to navigate this challenging experience with grace. This is the growth I never expected.
At the beginning of this year, I got a tattoo on my spine that reads “resilient.” Little did I know that this word would perfectly define the year ahead. Sometimes, I doubted I would make it to my next birthday, as some nights were incredibly dark. Mental health is a serious matter, and I am immensely grateful to those who supported me during those difficult times. Remember, help is always available!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Danielle Ernest is a seasoned digital strategist and content creator with 14 years of experience. She plays a crucial role in crafting digital strategies for brands, ensuring that their online presence—from websites to social media and beyond—aligns perfectly with their branding objectives.
Danielle is an innovator skilled at using data to drive strategies that enhance engagement and growth across various platforms. She stays abreast of the latest digital trends, ensuring her clients are equipped with the most effective ways to share their content. With a Master’s degree in Strategic Communication from Purdue University, she expertly blends theoretical knowledge and practical skills in social media marketing with her passion for storytelling. This unique mix allows her to produce content that not only communicates complex ideas and feelings but also builds vibrant online communities.
Recently, Danielle has expanded her horizons by becoming a travel agent. This new venture allows her to combine her love for adventure and exploration with her professional skills, helping clients create unforgettable travel experiences.
Beyond her work in the digital world and her new role as a travel agent, Danielle enjoys scuba diving, discovering new food spots, visiting amusement parks, and spending quality time with her dog. She is also passionate about photography, staying updated on tech trends, and practicing yoga, all of which contribute to keeping her life balanced and grounded.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have been particularly impactful in my journey. First, adaptability and continuous learning have been crucial. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of trends and effectively addressing new challenges has required a mindset of lifelong learning. Cultivating this habit allows one to quickly pick up new skills and tools, keeping strategies relevant and effective. Second, data-driven decision-making has been essential. Utilizing data to guide decisions optimizes strategies and demonstrates the value of work, enabling informed choices and measurable results. Developing strong analytical skills and learning to interpret data effectively are key to enhancing decision-making processes. Finally, a passion for storytelling has been vital in creating engaging content that resonates with audiences. Effective storytelling helps convey complex ideas in a relatable and compelling manner, fostering meaningful connections. Honing storytelling abilities through practice and studying successful campaigns can help find a unique voice and approach. Embracing adaptability, mastering data analysis, and nurturing storytelling skills provides a solid foundation for success in any field, and actively seeking opportunities to develop these qualities will benefit anyone early in their career.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was getting me diagnosed with ADHD. Their decision to seek a professional evaluation was pivotal in my journey. It provided clarity and understanding of the challenges I faced, allowing me to access the appropriate support and resources. This diagnosis not only helped me make sense of my experiences but also paved the way for effective strategies and interventions to manage my ADHD. As a result, I could better navigate both personal and professional aspects of my life, ultimately leading to greater success and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.danielleernest.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deemagicgurl/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellernest/
- Other: https://danielleernest.inteletravel.com/booktravel.cfm https://danielleernest.smugmug.com/
Image Credits
All images by Danielle Ernest
