Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Haoyue Yang. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Haoyue, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Last year marked a period of profound emotional turmoil for me. Due to the loss of a beloved family member and the regret not bidding her a final farewell, I lingered over the edge of breakdown. Meanwhile, a lack of steady income prevented me from securing a new apartment as my lease neared expiration. The industry-wide strike compounded my difficulties in finding stable employment, resulting in the onset of burning mouth syndrome—an ailment closely tied to emotional distress. On the verge of a breakdown, I thankfully found solace in the company of friends during the day, even if our activities were as simple as sitting together, preventing my mind from descending into overthinking. Nights were more challenging since I lied n bed tossing and turning, unable to stop thinking. In those meaningless thoughts, I captured a piece of poignant scenes in movies, anime, and books which depicted protagonists navigating heartbreak. These narratives replayed in my mind, offering comfort and motivating me to confront reality rather than evade it. I gradually realized the importance of nurturing personal spirit. Art and literature endure as humanity’s relentless pursuit of spiritual satisfaction, so does film. Fortunate in having a resilient spiritual core, bolstered by the strength derived from art and literature, I finally moved on. Thus, I couldn’t abandon my artistic pursuits in film. From one hand, I need to absorb energy from art and recover myself. From the other hand, I aspire form my works to inspire people enduring tough times. If the world were an math exam, perhaps art cannot provide formula, but knowing that someone else in the world is taking the same exam alongside you, knowing that you are not alone in your struggle, might provide some strength. These subtle forces, continuously converging, will ultimately transform into significant energy, empowering individuals to conquer their adversities.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Last year marked a period of profound emotional turmoil for me. Due to the loss of a beloved family member and the regret not bidding her a final farewell, I lingered over the edge of breakdown. Meanwhile, a lack of steady income prevented me from securing a new apartment as my lease neared expiration. The industry-wide strike compounded my difficulties in finding stable employment, resulting in the onset of burning mouth syndrome—an ailment closely tied to emotional distress. On the verge of a breakdown, I thankfully found solace in the company of friends during the day, even if our activities were as simple as sitting together, preventing my mind from descending into overthinking. Nights were more challenging since I lied n bed tossing and turning, unable to stop thinking. In those meaningless thoughts, I captured a piece of poignant scenes in movies, anime, and books which depicted protagonists navigating heartbreak. These narratives replayed in my mind, offering comfort and motivating me to confront reality rather than evade it. I gradually realized the importance of nurturing personal spirit. Art and literature endure as humanity’s relentless pursuit of spiritual satisfaction, so does film. Fortunate in having a resilient spiritual core, bolstered by the strength derived from art and literature, I finally moved on. Thus, I couldn’t abandon my artistic pursuits in film. From one hand, I need to absorb energy from art and recover myself. From the other hand, I aspire form my works to inspire people enduring tough times. If the world were an math exam, perhaps art cannot provide formula, but knowing that someone else in the world is taking the same exam alongside you, knowing that you are not alone in your struggle, might provide some strength. These subtle forces, continuously converging, will ultimately transform into significant energy, empowering individuals to conquer their adversities.
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, active networking, dedicated professional practice, and a willingness to seize every opportunity have proven to be the most impactful factors shaping my current path. During my time at USC, the significance of networking was tirelessly emphasized by mentors, particularly those actively engaged in the film industry, like my producing instructors. In an industry fueled by word of mouth, all my production experiences, internships, and my current job were facilitated through connections within the industry. While a solid resume is crucial, the prerequisite is being known and referred, providing the chance to submit your credentials. Once on board, it becomes a test of professional skills. A director, DP, or editor may not be widely recognized, but incompetence is sure to attract attention. As the saying goes, evil news travels fast, while good news takes its time. Even if professional skills fall short, being nice to everyone and maintaining a positive demeanor can make a significant difference. Lastly, never decline an opportunity, as the efforts may not yield immediate rewards, but the people you meet along the way may open doors to unforeseen platforms. That one person you collaborate with could be the catalyst that changes your life.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents supported me to study abroad and gave me the freedom to live the life I choose. Living alone in a new country, adapting to a totally different lifestyle, making new friends from all over the world, and inspecting myself in a wider world made me where I am now.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weikkkkke/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haoyue-yang-211b9a115/
