A Day in the Life of Sonny Von Cleveland
Running a Non-Profit, Promoting a Book, and Entrepreneurship in the Age of Instant Success
In an era dominated by the allure of social media's highlight reels, where success often appears as a series of effortlessly curated moments, the reality of achieving one's dreams is markedly different. It's a daily grind—a constant juggle of responsibilities, aspirations, and, admittedly, the occasional setback. As Sonny Von Cleveland, I navigate through this multifaceted life, embodying the roles of a non-profit leader, an author, and an entrepreneur, co-owning Frisky Business Palm Springs Cat Café with my wife, Claire. Here's a glimpse into my day-to-day life, highlighting not just the peaks but the valleys and the steady climbs in between.
Morning Rituals: Coffee and Stoic Wisdom
My day begins at the break of dawn, 6 AM, in the quiet before the world wakes. This sacred hour is reserved for grounding myself in the wisdom of the Stoics, accompanied by a cup of strong coffee. This practice isn't just about intellectual enrichment; it's a deliberate act to armor my mindset for the day ahead. The Stoics remind me that while we cannot control external events, we can master our reactions to them—a principle that guides my daily hustle.
Balancing Acts: From Cat Café to Non-Profit Missions
Twice a week, I immerse myself in the world of our beloved cat café, a venture that Claire and I passionately run. These days are dedicated to fostering a community space that brings joy and comfort to both humans and cats alike. The café, with its purring inhabitants and the laughter of guests, serves as a reminder of the simpler pleasures in life amidst my bustling schedule.
On the alternate days, my focus shifts to a different kind of fulfillment. Whether it's engaging in interviews to share the journey and message behind my book, "Hey White Boy, Conversations of Redemption," or dedicating my efforts to our non-profit organization, The Von Cleveland Foundation, each task is a step towards a larger goal. My work with the non-profit takes me to places like Indio Juvenile Hall, where I mentor kids twice a month, and involves me in critical discussions with the Riverside Country Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council. Here, we reimagine pathways to prevent juvenile delinquency, aiming to pave better futures for young people.
The Unseen Struggles Behind Success
In a world keen on showcasing success as a series of instant achievements, it's important to peel back the facade and acknowledge the reality: success is a result of daily perseverance. It's about protecting our mindset, setting boundaries for our time, and staying focused amidst the chaos. Some days, the machinery of life operates smoothly, projects advance, and the impact of our work is palpable. On others, obstacles loom large, and nothing seems to align. Yet, it's in these moments that the true hustle for success lies—in the determination to stay the course, guided by the belief in our goals and the work we're doing.
Conclusion: The Journey is the Destination
My daily life is a testament to the belief that success is not a destination but a journey. It's a composite of early mornings filled with Stoic reflections, days split between the joys of entrepreneurship at the cat café and the meaningful work of our non-profit, coupled with the ongoing promotion of a narrative that is close to my heart. This journey, with all its ups and downs, is a vivid illustration that success is indeed a daily hustle, requiring a steadfast focus on our goals and a relentless drive to move forward, no matter the obstacles.
As we navigate through our paths, let us remember that the highlight reels of social media are but a fraction of the story. Behind every success is a backdrop of unseen struggles, learning opportunities, and the gritty reality of hard work. By embracing this truth and committing to our daily hustle with purpose and resilience, we pave the way to achieving our dreams, one day at a time.
SVC