We caught up with the brilliant and insightful William Jefferson Jr a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi William , so great to have you on the platform. There’s so much we want to ask you, but let’s start with the topic of self-care. Do you do anything for self-care and if so, do you think it’s had a meaningful impact on your effectiveness?
Things I do for self care are taking myself to a nice restaurant because I’m a big foodie. Sometimes retail shopping. When I want to relax I get myself a massage at least once every other month and I feel refreshed. When I look in the mirror and I see my hair needs a cut I go and get groomed up . I feel like you work so hard you don’t take the time out for self and reward the grind you put in. I highly recommend everyone to self care and find things you like for yourself that makes you feel good and happy. It’s okay to feel selfish or self less. Take as much as self care as you need. When you look good you feel good.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
William Jefferson Jr, a goat in the flesh, the energy king and if there is a will its his way. Chicagos Very own with an Alabama trait. The first male in his family generation to become a household talent. Will decided to pursue the entertainment field in 2013 after working on a popular web series on YouTube “Juke A Chicago Story” directed by Maurice Dilla. Hitting over 1 million views.
With the buzz of his work in new media, Its in fact that Will’s work ethic became one of the most reliable name in the midwest. After a number of indie films his appearance then became mainstream on Law & Order NBC, 4400 on CW , and Chicago Fire NBC
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?
This journey has not been easy. The work has not stopped. Im grateful and blessed to be where I am now. By far from where I came from and have a long way to go. Everyone has a niche. People would always tell me these three things that I have as a Leader. I was always call to Lead. In order to be a great one you have to be a great follower. You have to be quick on your feet and a fast thinking. When things are falling apart its your job to pick them up. Sometimes It can be a drain on you but you will be rewarded. The world needs you. Communication is also key. Being able to express my thoughts and understanding what it truly means to have that mindset of connection. Being able to take rejection and use that as your Will Power. That No just means Not Right now. Whats for you will be for you when you out the work behind it. You will eventually appreciate your creation because it has had its trials and errors.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When Im feeling overwhelmed. I do a lot of self care. Since senior year of high school I started to understand self care. For men especially African American males its super important to take the time for ourselves. I journal , watch my favorite show or movie. If its nice outside I like to go to the lakefront and watch the water on the beach. Sometimes I will read or listen to an inspirational podcast. I will go to my favorite restaurant or cook my favorite meal. I might take myself on a retail therapy time because I love fashion. I will go take time off of work to get some good sleep. Meditate maybe or even get a Massage to relax myself. When you are relaxed you feel better and when you feel better you will do better. Sometimes we just need to take time for one self and its okay to be selfish for you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram/willsomeelse
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/willsomeelse
Image Credits
Christian Webb, Lace Media.
