Reflections on my Interview with Mario: Choose Happiness

I’m proud to debut our latest digital cover for Fashion Bomb Daily, featuring R&B crooner, Mario:

Even with all of his success, his career has also been defined by adversity. But when I asked him how he stays positive and motivated, he replied, “My dreams and my ambition and the things I want to accomplish in life keep me motivated. I see a lot of people who have a lot of opportunities or wealth or success and they’re miserable. It shows me that it’s our choice to be happy no matter what.”

He also, interestingly, defined success as happiness. He said, “I think of being happy and being able to add something to the culture. Success is when it trickles down to other people’s lives, and you can create opportunities for other people and see them flourish in their will and intention.”

We can acquire things and even achieve career success. But if you’re not HAPPY, then what are you doing it for?
So often in my life, I thought I’d define success by how many millions are in my bank account (and trust me, millions wouldn’t hurt!). But even as I make strides, I’m going to make strides, also, to enjoy the moment. Thank GOD. Praise him for how far I’ve come and how far I’m going to go. Because if you’re not ebulliently jubilant with all you’ve done and acquired, then what are you doing it for?

Read the rest of the interview on FashionBombDaily.com.
Love & Light,
Fashion, Styling, and Creative Direction by Michael Mann (@akixmann @michael.mann @tylerjacobmusic). Photography by Tyren Redd. Grooming DRod Beauty. Special Thanks to Concrete Studios LA.