We were lucky to catch up with Hazel Quimpo recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hazel, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
For years, my journey with CPTSD and ADHD was marked by a fierce denial of the very existence of my struggles. I was the master of white-knuckling through life, painting a picture of control and competence to the outside world, while internally, I was in a constant state of turmoil. Accepting that I had an issue felt like an admission of defeat, a crack in the armor I’d meticulously built around myself.
It was in the quiet, introspective moments reading a game-changer of a book, “Running on Empty”, that I began to face the realities I had long denied. The book was a mirror, reflecting the voids of my growth and learning self-compassion that I had skillfully ignored. This realization was both a shock and a revelation, marking the beginning of a journey towards true healing.
The most alien concept in this process was reconnecting with my inner child. For so long, I had been so disassociated from my body, so disconnected from my emotional self, that understanding the depth of this disconnection was like learning a new language. I remember the first time my therapist spoke about somatic work; it felt like they were describing a foreign land. How could I reconnect with something I wasn’t even sure existed?
But slowly, through patience and persistence, I began to chip away at the walls I had built. Therapy sessions became sacred spaces where I learned to listen to the whispers of my inner child, understanding her fears, her joys, and her unmet needs. Somatic work transformed from a concept into a practice, a tangible way to bridge the gap between my mind and body. It was uncomfortable, often painful, but it was real.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
At The Clever, I’m revolutionizing content strategy by leveraging AI, not for creative writing, but for developing robust frameworks that guide our strategies. This approach is stupendous for creating highly effective, tailor-made solutions for small businesses and scrappy startups. For instance, I’ve pioneered a method where sales call transcripts are transformed into custom, well-done, proposals through AI-driven analysis, showcasing my innovative use of technology.
Managing my executive function challenges has turned me into a systems maestro. Tools like ClickUp are my playground, where I create intricate roadmaps and OKRs, turning complex projects into manageable, actionable steps. This skill has been invaluable in designing marketing strategies that are not only creative but also highly systematic and efficient.
My passion lies in forging authentic human connections, especially with small, scrappy teams aiming for their next big leap. I thrive in environments where I can connect deeply with a project and the people behind it, applying my skills to help them navigate the challenges of growth and change.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand AI-powered content strategy tools, exploring new ways to empower businesses in their growth journey. I’m also focusing on sharing my expertise in community-led growth, aligning with my belief in the power of genuine connections and collaborative efforts.
In essence, The Clever stands at the intersection of advanced technology and human-centric marketing. We’re about more than just algorithms and data; we’re about understanding stories, aspirations, and the human element behind every brand.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Starting a journey in the dynamic world of marketing and AI, like mine with The Clever, is akin to stepping into a fast-moving stream – the currents of change are constant and challenging. Through my experiences, I’ve identified three key qualities that have been crucial navigators in these waters.
Firstly, adaptability has been my cornerstone. I recall an early project where everything I had planned hit a roadblock. It was a sink-or-swim moment, and adapting quickly became my survival strategy. To those embarking on their journey, remember: flexibility is your ally. The marketing landscape shifts rapidly, especially with evolving AI technologies, and your ability to adapt is what will keep you afloat.
Next, mastering systems thinking and organization has been a game changer, especially given my struggles with executive function. Learning to use tools like ClickUp effectively transformed how I manage projects, turning overwhelming chaos into structured action plans. For beginners, dive into learning project management tools and methodologies. Understanding how to deconstruct complex tasks into manageable parts isn’t just an organizational skill; it’s a way to clarify your vision and strategy.
Lastly, the power of human connection has been a guiding force. In a field often dominated by data and analytics, never underestimate the value of empathy and genuine engagement. Early in my career, I learned that the most successful marketing strategies are those grounded in real understanding and connection with your audience. As you start, focus on building these connections – listen, engage, and remember that at the end of every data point is a human story.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
GPT When overwhelm hits, my strategy is simple yet effective. I start by clearing the clutter in my mind. Instead of trying to plow through the chaos by chaining myself to my desk, I opt for a brain dump. This means writing down everything that’s crowding my thoughts – tasks, worries, ideas. It’s like tidying up a messy room, but it’s my mind.
Meditation has been a crucial part of my coping toolkit. It allows me to step back, breathe, and find my center amid the storm. It’s amazing how just a few minutes of focused breathing can shift my entire perspective and approach to work.
But the real revelation has been the power of walking. I used to view going for a walk as a distraction from productivity. Now, I see it as an integral part of it. Walking breaks have become my secret weapon. They’re moments to step outside, refresh my mind, and come back recharged. It’s during these walks that I often find clarity and solutions that seemed elusive behind a screen.
To anyone feeling swamped, my advice is to give yourself the space to breathe and reset. Jot down your thoughts, practice mindfulness, and embrace the rejuvenating power of a good walk. These aren’t just breaks; they’re your pathways to clearer thinking and more effective working.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theclever.io/about
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hazelq/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chatgptforsmallbiz
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazelq/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7oHmO-EmAKiiSmvdMAFoGA
- Other: https://www.threads.net/@hazelq
