Meet Hayden—an adventure capitalist, marketing guru, and entrepreneur. When he isn't discussing marketing strategy or buildings innovative companies from the ground up, you can find him outdoors at the closest motocross track. Hayden let us in on his struggle with a chemical imbalance which he attributes to his unique ability to think outside the box. His ability to speak open and honestly about bi-polar disorder is not only powerful, but shows us just how common and important mental wellness is in today's world. Get to know Hayden...
I AM HAYDEN AND I DEFINE CONFIDENCE AS THE ABILITY TO OWN YOUR POTENTIAL THROUGH LIFE’S PEAKS, VALLEYS, SUCCESSES AND FAILURES.
WHERE DID YOU GROW UP AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?
I grew up in a bubble just outside Westlake Village CA. I am now self-quarantined in my home near Santa Monica.
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO?
I’ve always struggled to answer that question because really I just persistently follow my gut. I’ve started and moved on from a number of ventures but, the common thread has been my passion for building brands. As director of marketing at James Capital Advisors I currently work to innovate the commercial real estate industry.
WHY IS HAVING A HEALTHY GUT IMPORTANT TO YOU?
I believe I’ve gotten where I am today by following my gut and I mean that as much more than a simple cliché. A healthy gut supports a healthy mind and maximizing creative energy is an integral part of my life.
WHY THE CONFIDENCE CO MISSION RESONATE WITH YOU?
I believe everyone has confidence within them. A mission of inspiring those to find it is something everyone should resonate with.
NAME YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT.
I have an unhealthy addiction to Chipotle and The Confidence Co's digestive enzymes are my greatest enabler.
NAME THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE FOODS.
Chipotle
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RECIPE?
White Rice, Pinto Beans (two scoops please), no meat, pico de gallo, mild and hot salsa, light sour cream, cheese, and guac.
ANY MAJOR WELLNESS MOMENTS IN YOUR LIFE?
In business and athletics I’ve accomplished things I’m very proud of but, my greatest wellness moment came when I accepted that I was unwell. I struggled with, and ignored, a chemical imbalance for many years before realizing that embracing and managing it would allow me to reach my full potential. Some of my greatest accomplishments have come from me believing things that seem delusional to others; chasing a false reality has led me to where I am today. I couldn’t imagine having it any other way.
"I hate being bi-polar, it's awesome." - Kanye
WHAT'S YOUR CURRENT SELF-CARE ROUTINE?
Sleep, Diet, Exercise and Mindfulness.
I go to sleep early and wake earlier. I start my day with a 10-15 minute meditation followed by a 45 minute fasted workout. I’ll eat a large, clean-ish meal for both lunch and an early dinner. Pre-Quarantine, I would end my day with a 45 minute guided meditation at UnPlug in Santa Monica. Biweekly, I’ll float in an isolation deprivation tank to relax, recover and explore my minds potential.
With that said… Everything in moderation, including moderation. It’s important to let loose once in a while. I always say, “I’ll do just about anything once a quarter”.
WHERE DO YOU GET OR DRAW INSPIRATION FROM?
The right answer: Seeing my friends and family succeed in their personal and professional lives is what inspires me most.
The real answer: Steve, John and Kanye.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR 18-YEAR OLD SELF?
You’re are about to start an illegal party company, design a streetwear brand and launch a dating app. All three will fail; do them anyways. Trust your gut. Be confident but humble. Be kind and keep an open mind. Remind your loved ones that you love them.
HOW HAVE YOU KEPT UP YOUR CREATIVITY DURING THIS TIME?
Honestly, it’s been tough. Staying home doing the same thing over and over is a creative bummer. Changing my scenery and traveling responsibly, as often as possible, has been crucial. That, and good music; currently listening to the new albums from Blackbear and Taylor.
HAVE YOU FOUND CREATING ART TO BE HELPFUL WITH EVERYTHING GOING ON? IF SO, HOW?
Art has been a great escape. All over the world, but especially in LA, it seems we’re surrounded by negativity, conflict and drama. Composing, creating and designing has helped me silence the noise as well as put things into perspective.
WHAT ARE IS ONE SELF-CARE RITUAL YOU'RE LEANING INTO FOR COMFORT?
Nightly Epsom salt baths?
DO YOU HAVE A QUOTE, POEM OR SONG THAT YOU WOULD DEFINE AS YOUR ANTHEM?
“Everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you. And you can change it, you can influence it… Once you learn that, you'll never be the same again.” – Steve
Learn more about The Confidence Co. This platform is meant to hold space for confident humans who have embraced the healthiest and most authentic version of themselves. If you know someone who you feel should be featured as a Confident Human, please reach out to us: support@theconfidence.co. :)