We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marceil Van Camp. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marceil below.
Hi Marceil, so happy to have you with us today and there is so much we want to ask you about. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others developed certain skills or qualities that we are struggling with can be helpful. Along those lines, we’d love to hear from you about how you developed your ability to take risk?
Having moved frequently as a child, I’ve cultivated a remarkable adaptability, making any place feel like home. Change has become a familiar companion rather than a source of fear. My courage to take risks stems from a deep-seated understanding that momentum is about what’s best for the long haul, not just the fleeting satisfaction of the moment. This mindset has led me to explore various industries, recognizing the value in taking calculated risks to gather diverse experiences.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hey there, I’m Marceil Van Camp, and I’ve spent my life in the world of sales, always driven by the belief that business should serve a greater purpose, especially when it comes to building communities. That’s why my wife and I decided to open Kamp Social House, a cozy neighborhood spot in Seattle’s Madison Valley. Our motto? “Don’t be a stranger.” It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a hub for connection and belonging.
After years in corporate sales, I decided to pivot my career towards residential real estate in 2023. It was a natural progression for me, combining my passion for business with my love for bringing people together. What I find most fulfilling is using technology alongside genuine community engagement to make meaningful connections and find the perfect matches that might have otherwise been overlooked.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about my latest venture in the realm of sober curiosity. It’s a space that’s gaining traction, and I see it as an opportunity to once again merge my entrepreneurial spirit with my commitment to making a positive impact on my community. Watch this space – there are exciting things on the horizon.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that were particularly impactful are adaptability, curiosity, and perseverance.
Adaptability: In the fast-paced world of learning and development, adaptability is key. Being able to adjust to new information, technologies, and situations is crucial for growth. My advice for developing adaptability is to embrace change rather than resist it. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone regularly, whether it’s by trying new activities, learning new skills, or exploring different perspectives. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and use it to refine your approach.
Curiosity: Curiosity is the driving force behind continuous learning and improvement. Cultivating a curious mindset involves asking questions, seeking out new experiences, and staying open to different ideas and viewpoints. To develop curiosity, make a habit of exploring topics that interest you, both within and outside your field of expertise. Engage in conversations with diverse groups of people to gain fresh insights and perspectives. Never stop asking “why” and always strive to deepen your understanding of the world around you.
Perseverance: Success rarely comes without setbacks and challenges. Perseverance is what allows us to push through difficulties and stay committed to our goals. To strengthen your perseverance, set clear, achievable goals for yourself and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small, and use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can offer encouragement and guidance when you need it most.
In summary, my advice for those early in their journey is to cultivate adaptability, curiosity, and perseverance. Embrace change, stay curious, and never give up on your goals, no matter how daunting they may seem. With time and effort, you’ll be amazed at how much you can achieve.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
“The Precious Present” by Spencer Johnson is a short yet impactful book that teaches the value of living in the moment. It reminds readers to cherish each day and appreciate the gifts it brings. By focusing on the present, we can cultivate mindfulness, gratitude, and happiness. The book encourages readers to seize the opportunities for growth and joy that exist right now, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. For many, “The Precious Present” serves as a reminder to make the most of each moment and live life to the fullest. It’s especially meaningful for me, as my parents gave me this book as a child and reminded me of its message every year on my birthday, instilling in me the importance of appreciating the present moment.
Image Credits
Jenna Lynn Photography