I have an acute obsession with the color teal, coconut snowballs, and developed an eclectic taste in music since the age of 5. I think there’s always a way to apply creativity in any profession.  From creative visuals to creative processes, I relish the spectrum that creativity has to offer.  I fall into the asian stereotype in that I am really good in math, which means I appreciate logic and rationality.  Yet, at the same time, I love art and music, which is subjective and unpredictable.  So, I’m like a walking contradiction.

After all my years of reading and reflecting, here are a few things that I live by:  Have fun. Live colorfully. Make mistakes. Smile often. Make others happy.

In addition to cells, I believe having fun constitutes the building blocks of life. Having fun makes it easier to wake up in the morning and look forward to what you do and how it affects others. For me, it’s the driving force that makes me continue to do what I’m passionate about doing.

Live colorfully is my metaphor for taking risks, being open-minded and exploring things outside your usual comfort zone. It’s about keeping your fingers on the pulse of culture.  It’s about watching movies, lots of movies: new ones, old ones, good ones, and bad ones. It’s about reading anything and everything: books, magazines, websites, blogs, menus, street signs, etc.

Making mistakes is one of the best ways to learn. I’m not afraid of being wrong and am always seeking criticism rather than compliments to improve. However, to minimize my margin of error, I developed a healthy addiction for knowledge and avoid withdrawal symptoms by learning at least one new thing or fact everyday. I want to continue to learn from those who are smarter and better than me and make as many mistakes as it takes along the way to succeed.

I think a smile goes a long way. It shows optimism and lets others know that you’re approachable and pleasant to be around.  I find that when life happens, remembering to smile can help ride the storm (cupcakes or choice of sweets help too).

Lastly, I want to make the people in my life happy. When I’m on a team, I do what it takes to make my team members happy while getting the job done (and on time).  When I’m hanging out with friends and family, I want everyone to laugh and stuff their face with carbs!  I think it’s important it make time for others and help others seek happiness.  I strongly believe that mentality benefits in so many ways.  Just as in my personal and professional life, when you put others before yourself, you’re guaranteed to do a great job and be happy too.