We had the good fortune of connecting with David Malek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I believe that when you really are passionate about whatever it is that you do, then you can forget about life balance, frankly it’s a fallacy. In today’s world, there is no such thing as life balance. You must in order to become successful in your field be totally focused on your career. Does that mean there is no time for family, fun and fitness? No! But you have to prioritize the areas of your life that are most important. I firmly believe that many people think they know the answer but their actions tell another story. Make a list in order of importance – For example: 1. Family 2. Career, 3.Fitness, 4. Fun. Now, this could change. When you are first embarking on your journey. It could (should be), Career, Fitness, Fun and if you find a mate and perhaps start a family then you re-arrange. You have to figure that in order to get all of this in your life the more simple it is the better. People over-complicate life and end up overwhelmed. Simple-Fly!.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Because I’m in the arts, I fully believe that each person is on his or her own path. I get up every morning and I’m excited to know that I can contribute something to society and to fulfill myself. If you are not satisfied with you craft it’s not the crafts fault, it’s your own because there is always something to do, something to learn and something to contribute. I think life in the arts is not easy and it’s also very easy. It all depends on your perspective. Submerge yourself in what you do 100% and life is easy, If you are doing what you do to get something – like rich or famous then life in art or in general becomes more difficult. Focus on your passion and the world will beat a path to your door and give you everything you’ve always wanted.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in Southern California – Orange County to be more specific and we many great places to visit and things to do. We have the beach, the mountains, theme parks as well as a booming nightlife which includes a diversity of food and drink found in very few places outside America in general. Perhaps a tour of the coastline with lunch at one end and dinner at the other. Disneyland if they have never been and are a fan. The Beach with lunch at one of the shacks and dinner on Main Street. Big Bear for Skiing or Hiking or a trip to San Diego. Tour of the Port of Los Angeles or Hollywood. Laguna Beach Art Walk with lunch and dinner at various locations. Perhaps a bike Ride along the coast and then at night the Magic Castle or some other night club or hot spot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In the arts, the entire community deserves a shoutout. I am inspired by music, movies, dance, museums and even my own fellow magicians. But I find that you cannot pigeon hole one area or one person it’s a collective.

Website: https://davidmalek.com/
Instagram: @himtheking
Linkedin: David Malek
Facebook: davidmalek
Other: YouTube videos can be seen on my website – above.

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