Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mike Gaines. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Mike, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
That’s a great question! I grew up a pretty shy kid, I really didn’t speak unless I was spoken to, unless I felt comfortable around you. When I was younger my mom used to tell me, that I would need to come out of my shell eventually. So as a kid playing sports, and being active in the church definitely helped me out. I remember my mom telling me that go for things that seem right, even if you are afraid in the moment. With that being said, when I was 21 I was managing our local Boys & Girls Club. That role was very rewarding and took a lot of work, and one of my tasks was marketing. Sometimes the marketing aspect would have me reach out to some celebrities for different things. I learned very quickly how to approach people, via telephone, Email, etc. I gained confidence knowing that it was a high risk task, but doing it anyway. I became more comfortable doing this as time went on, and now that truly helped me where I am today! As far as self esteem, I didn’t struggle much, I was pretty comfortable in my own body. I tried to surround myself with positive people, and people that I could learn from. I think it’s human nature to want have a few different features, or be bit taller etc. However, I think when you’ve found whats truly important, those wants tend to leave.
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?
I have podcast called The Positive Gaines & I’ve been podcasting for 3 years now, I started during the pandemic. I only started a podcast because I was bored at home, and wanted to try something different. Since then I’ve put out closer to 75 total episodes between Zoom & IG Live. Some of my guests are UFC fighters actors, musicians, etc. The goal is to bring on like minded positive people that can share messages, stories, and advice. I feel like there is plenty of negative things in the world, so why not try and be a light? I don’t have co-host, but I have a guest on every time, so I’m never doing an episode solo. I feel like it’s unique as it’s branded after my name, and the content is family friendly. The future goal is to be more involved in the community .
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?
One of the biggest things that helped me was understanding that if you are the smartest person in the room, that might be a problem. I like to learn from others, I like to see how people operate in their respective craft. There’s so much free information out there, if you’re willing to apply yourself. Patience is another thing that I try to practice, patience can be tough. Sometimes we want things to happen so fast, but we’re not willing to put in the work. Kindness is another forgotten art lost in translation. Take the time to talk to people, GENUINE kindness goes along way. My advice for those early in their journey is to enjoy what you do! Don’t be afraid of the unknown, go for it! Take notes, you’re never too old to learn.
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 that my mom did for me was adopting me. I thank GOD everyday for my mother choosing me and taking me in. She always put me first, and it was just her and I as I grew up. She never married because she said ” I never found anyone that was good enough for you.” I had the best childhood growing up and I look back sometimes and think where would I be if she never took me in? That to me is the ultimate gift, I don’t believe I’ll ever be able to give her enough credit for that.
Contact Info:
- Website: gainesinterviews.mystrikingly.com
- Instagram: @thenewpositivegaines
- Facebook: thepositivegaines
- Youtube: @thepositivegaines942
