We recently connected with Cheng Guo and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Cheng, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
living in the modern city is a very stressful challenge. After I graduated from school and start to live by myself I feel life turn to be very hard. I learnt a very important lesson from other people that the secret to keep a healthy mental is focus on the present moment. I start to pay more attention to the things that I am doing instead worry a lot of the uncontrollable thing. The change heals me a lot along with the psychology book that I am reading. When I out of creative juice or feel burned out, I just go out and exercising a little bit. It gives me a waked body and refreshed mental condition that improve my working quality. Being social is another key that I use to keep a good condition. I learning to ask my friends out to share my emotion with them. They helped me and makes me feel better. I also very appreciate that.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Thanks for letting me share my story. I’m Cheng, an artist in animation since 2014, currently a visual development artist in Los Angeles for over three years. The first two were spent in my small apartment during the pandemic, struggling to collaborate with colleagues.
As a visual development artist, I bring ideas to life through original designs for animations. It’s both fun and challenging. Researching online takes up more time than actual design. Even after the first submission, directors often ask for more options. But when I see the final animation, the joy is simply amazing.
During my off-duty hours from the studio, I dive into Blender to create 3D artworks. While working as a 2D designer is enjoyable, exploring the third dimension in 3D software adds a refreshing layer to my creativity. I’m also passionate about video games, particularly Overwatch 2. When work overwhelms me, a few rounds of gaming help me unwind. And if stress kicks in, a quick run or spending time with friends outside my room does wonders.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I realize I don’t fit the mold of someone with an intense thirst for success. I’ve always admired those driven, self-motivated individuals who charge towards their goals. However, I see myself as more down-to-earth. While I have clear goals, I view them as long-term journeys spanning decades.
Achieving these goals requires dedication and a steadfast commitment to my initial direction. I anticipate frustration, refusals, and failures along the way, but I know I must persevere. Confidence is key, especially when surrounded by talented and hardworking artists.
For those aspiring to enter the animation industry, my advice is to start with a realistic plan to get your foot in the door. It might not be the ideal position initially, but once you break in, there’s always a chance to work towards your ultimate goals.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Handling an overwhelmed self can be challenging. I may not feel qualified to teach others to stay calm under pressure, but I can share my personal solutions for dealing with negative energy. When burnout hits or creativity wanes, a simple three-mile run at the gym works wonders. Exercise serves as a temporary distraction from struggles and helps me return to my work station with newfound confidence.
Additionally, spending time with friends and diving into books contribute to maintaining a healthy mental balance. These activities offer a respite, allowing me to reset and approach challenges with a refreshed mindset.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://guochengspices.wixsite.com/visdev
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gcspices/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-cheng-he-him-a76097176/
Image Credits
Cheng Guo
