OFFAIAH- Going Through the Emotions

We met Michael to hear about the realities of overcoming challenge, his passion for exercise, and how he keeps his creativity flowing.

What has been your biggest life challenge so far and what did you do to overcome it?

Well, despite being in a helicopter crash back in 2017, the biggest challenges I’ve overcome is writers-block.

The way I usually overcome this is to step back and take a breather.

That might be long hikes with my dogs, hard workout in the gym, or doing some fun activities with my family.

I find after getting some the creative juices start to flow again.

Self-doubt can be one of the most destructive forces for a creative.

You need to hang on in there, know that something good is just over the horizon.

Always be thinking about the end-goal you are trying to achieve.

What do you think affects your mental health positively?

What definitely keeps my mind healthy is keeping a healthy body.

I’ve always loved going on runs, going to the gym, playing sports.

It’s definitely kept my mind healthy, optimistic and looking towards a positive future.

And negatively?

I honestly try not to dwell too much on negative things. I don’t spend too much time on social media either.

What role does creativity play in your wellbeing?

There’s no better feeling than creating something and hearing it being played live.

It’s the best feeling in the world and this feeling affects my wellbeing in the most positive way.

This sense of wellbeing  spurs me on to keep creating and in a sense be more creative.

What are you reading, watching and listening to at the moment?

I just finished reading a novel by British author Jeffrey Archer called ‘Kane and Abel’ and thoroughly enjoyed it.

It’s a kind of rags-to-riches story, which serves as great inspiration for when I need it.

It’s hard to watch anything at the moment having two young children.

Listening-wise, I spend a lot of time listening to demos, mixes and just new music in general.

What’s your go to music if you need a boost?

Honestly, I don’t really turn to a particular type of music to give me a boost!

If I need any kind of mental boost, I either go for a 3 mile fast run or head to the gym.

This always boosts my mental state of mind.

What are your favourite foods?

I love Japanese food.

Oh, and nothing beats a hangover like a huge pepperoni pizza (with pineapple)!

Do you like to exercise or meditate at all?

I try to go to the gym at least 3 times a week, power-walk almost every day with my dogs.

And, I try to meditate every day but realistically it ends up being 3-4 times per week.

I find mediation plays a great part in the creative process as it allows my mind to escape and wander free-thought.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received in regards to your mental wellbeing?  

The best advice I’ve read is about being able to let go of something when you want it the most.

It was actually words written by Michael Jackson, and goes something along the lines of:

“Love is like a bar of soap in the bathtub – you have it there in your hand but if you hold too tightly it will slip away.”

How have you changed since 15, and what advice would you give to that person? 

I guess I’ve just calmed down a bit since then!

As a kid I was hyperactive and wanted to do everything.

My advice to that person would be to

take a breath, step back and think about what it is you really want

You have a lot of time to work things out.

Don’t forget life is not about the destination, it’s about the journey, so enjoy the ride.