In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to avoid the deep inner work that challenges us but also unlocks our true potential. Some spend their lifetimes avoiding this introspection, missing the opportunity to discover new parts of themselves and others. However, for those like Axelle Lesuisse, who is with MAD Models Management, embracing difficult times is where the true purpose of life is discovered. Axelle’s perspective on self-discovery captured in her words: “Some people spend their lifetime avoiding doing deep inner work. By doing that, they also avoid reaching their full potential. I’d rather go through difficult times but discover new parts of myself and of others. In my opinion, that’s where the magic of my presence on Earth lies.”
In our interview and photo series, Axelle opens up about her journey of self-discovery, the challenges she faces, and the role of connection with others in her inner work. Her candidness and authenticity provide valuable insights into the power of vulnerability and the importance of personal growth.
Photography by Josué Arteaga.
Axelle, I love the quote you provided and the talk about inner work. How are you today?
I am going to be very true and honest with you because I think that this authenticity is missing in our social media-based society: today was very tough for me. I was highly emotional, and it was one of those days when I’d prefer to numb myself instead of facing adversity and challenges.
I totally feel you! I am currently in a troubling situation that I never expected to be in. What strategies do you use to navigate through difficult situations?
I am sorry to hear you are going through a difficult period, but maybe a reassuring thought for you to read is that I am also experiencing an extremely difficult time at the moment, and it has been going on for a while now. I don’t have all the answers figured out yet, but what has helped me progress so far is opening up about it with people I feel very comfortable with and whom I know will never judge me, even if I were to repeat the same struggles over and over again for several years.
I am also being supported by an incredible therapist with whom I am working on my beliefs at deep subconscious levels. It’s very enriching work, and I can feel that I am going in the right direction, being accompanied by this wonderful person who is a guide to me. To be a bit more practical on a day-to-day basis, if I really need to get out of my head for a while, doing sports is a very efficient coping mechanism but shouldn’t be used as a cure, in my opinion.
“Reminding myself that every situation is temporary is often a relief when life feels overwhelming.”
How do you find comfort or solace when faced with challenges?
I find comfort in making gratitude lists every day. I don’t write them down all the time, but even reflecting for a few minutes during the day on all the things I can be grateful for helps put my problems into perspective. Also, reminding myself that every situation is temporary is often a relief when life feels overwhelming.
How important is it to seek support from others when dealing with challenging situations?
Personally, I think seeking outside support is a MAJOR step in every healing/recovery/personal growth process. Yes, in the end, I have to do the hard and deep work myself, but supportive people around me can help me become aware of vicious circles/behaviors, boost me when motivation is low, and make me feel loved and appreciated even if I am down. That’s extremely important for me to keep going.
I believe that people are incredibly important in our lives. In recent years, there’s been an overemphasis on self-love. However, in my opinion, we are social beings who also need connections with others. What role do others play in your journey of inner work and self-discovery?
As mentioned before, my family, therapist, and close friends are a huge part of my progress daily because they are the ones holding a mirror for me, forcing me to face my fears, and being rocks in the flames. However, I think that if the will to change and grow isn’t present, you can have the best environment and support around you, and nothing is going to happen. You are the one deciding whether you take the reins of your life or let your life’s events decide your fate. Easier said than done, though, and I am currently still working hard on that part, so please don’t suppose I have it all figured out. (laughs)
“Signs of depression and physical symptoms are alarm bells warning me that my mindset has to change because it’s not sustainable.”
The most important people in your life?
Honestly, this question is a huge struggle for me at the moment because I notice that I am fighting a situation that I can’t change, and I believe that by doing that, I am being productive. I read a quote last week saying, “Answers come when you let go.” That truly resonated with me as I am someone who loves controlling everything in my life: my jobs, my appearance, my relationships, etc.
How do you differentiate between situations you can change and those you need to accept?
However, the desire for control went to a point of no return, where signs of depression and physical symptoms started to appear (some of them are still very present). These are alarm bells warning me that my mindset on how I see success and how I bind my personal value to my results has to change because it’s not sustainable.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
In the future, I picture myself still modeling and traveling a lot because I love my job, the opportunities it gives me, the people I get to meet, and the creatives I have the chance to work with. I don’t see myself living in Belgium anymore, as the Belgian mentality doesn’t fit my own at all, and I feel blocked in my ambition here. I fell in love with Sydney when I was there last year, so living and working there would be a dream of mine. And I will do everything to achieve it (smiles)
Model: Axelle Lesuisse @axelle.lesuisse
Agency in Spain: MAD Models Management @ madmodelsmgmt
Photography by Josué Arteaga – @josuearteagaphoto
