Meet Danielle McFarquhar | Career & Leadership Strategist

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

Hi Danielle, what role has risk played in your life or career?
There are a few factors that I think about when considering risk. The first is being clear about my why. I need to feel confident that whatever the outcome, I’ve counted the cost and know that I made the best decision with the information I had at the time. The next factor, equally important to me, is having faith. Whether it’s a little faith or a lot of faith, I need some measure to move forward with anything involving risk. Finally, I seek counsel from those I trust as having a perspective other than my own and the opportunity to address potential areas I can’t see is essential. Risk-taking in my life/career has generally followed some non-traditional path that presented itself at the most unexpected moment. The opportunity for taking risks in my life has typically involved embracing the unfamiliar, a greater demand on my capacity and resolve to grow.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has taken me from higher education to the world of banking with a focus on community development and engagement. I also have a background in clinical counseling, having spent several years as a counselor at a university and in the community. That combination is a unique experience to carry with me in my work life. At this juncture, I’m most proud of my ability to adapt and be flexible throughout new experiences and challenges. Being intentional about caring for my mind, body, soul, and spirit has aided in my ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

To be where I am professionally is nothing but the grace of God. I show up, have faith, follow through, and genuinely want to add value, no matter the environment or assignment. Doing so has set the stage for others to want to include me in their endeavors. For that, I am so grateful. I wouldn’t say it’s been easy, but when challenges arise, I have to tap into my faith, lean into my support system, and accept that the hard things in life show up not for us to quit but to reassess and keep pressing.
In the past few years, I’ve learned the following lessons: Be patient with yourself and those close to you as you are experiencing life and happenstance. You cannot bumrush yourself into transformation. It takes incremental, intentional moments to become the best of who we are meant to be.

It rains and pours no matter who you are and how much good you do. You have to see the challenges you face not as a hindrance to stop you but as opportunities to make you think critically about your next best move.

I want the world to know that my message as a leader, coach, and professional is to empower others, maximize moments, and lead with authenticity.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting I would take them to Restaurant 17 in Travelers Rest as the view, ambiance and service are incredible. We’d also go to Bridgeway Station and enjoy the scenery and probably pick up some Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. On another evening out we’d probably visit the Patterson Kitchen at Hotel Hartness. We’d likely also visit Falls Park in downtown Greenville and grab lunch at Gather GVL. For brunch, Woodside Bistro would be a definite go to. Westside market is another interesting place that has all sorts of unique finds. We’d certainly go there at some point in the week as a little outing. Color Clay Cafe is another fun spot that we’d go to and tap into our creative side and paint pottery. We do love coffee so we’d likely stop at the Rise Bakery, The Village Grind, or the Swamp Rabbit Cafe to enjoy a cup during the week.

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?
I am surrounded by the most incredible people near and far who show up for me, from my best friends, my counselor, my church community, and the countless leaders who have made room for me. I want to say thank you for giving me your best and supporting me and my many endeavors. Finally, my Clemson National Scholar family for inspiring me for so many years.

Website: https://www.coachdaniellekae.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellemc/