We recently connected with Sunny Tianqing Li and have shared our conversation below.
Sunny Tianqing, thrilled to have you on the platform as I think our readers can really benefit from your insights and experiences. In particular, we’d love to hear about how you think about burnout, avoiding or overcoming burnout, etc.
In a recent project, I faced a significant challenge that pushed me to the edge of burnout. I took charge of an entire production for a crucial identity project, and the weight of the responsibility was palpable. However, the experience also revealed areas for growth and development.
During this time, I realized that my hesitancy to seek help was a personal barrier, influenced by my perception of my role within the team hierarchy. Simultaneously, managing diverse requests from various producers, often with conflicting timelines, led to my schedule becoming double or even triple-booked. As I delved into this experience, I recognized the need for a shift in my own communication approach.
In response to these challenges, I made a conscious effort to enhance my communication skills. I learned to express my needs more effectively and directly and collaborated with the team to streamline our processes. It’s not part of my natural personality, but I pushed myself to develop a mindset of focusing on what truly matters, thinking less about trivial aspects, and caring less about things beyond my control.
In my perspective, facing burnout is, to some degree, an inherent aspect of professional life. There comes a time when both life and work can feel overwhelmingly challenging. I’ve embraced a mindset that views these moments as invaluable opportunities for personal growth and resilience. This experience significantly refined my capacity to navigate high-pressure situations, ultimately enhancing my ability to proactively prevent potential burnout.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
In my current professional role, I work as a graphic designer at Apple, focusing on hardware art direction, hardware campaigns, and event identity. It’s an exhilarating workplace, brimming with exceptionally talented yet humble individuals. Each day at work brings new opportunities to learn, and I find inspiration from the collaborative environment that surrounds me.
A pivotal point in my career was my graduation in 2020 from ArtCenter College of Design, a period marked by the challenges of job hunting. In response, I dived into freelancing, an experience that connected me with vibrant spirits running small businesses and boutique brands like Sundae School, Isla Beauty, and Little Goodies. This exposure ignited a lasting passion for collaborating with these enterprises on various projects, from shaping brand identities to crafting engaging websites. Working with diverse partners, I’ve come to value authenticity, straightforward feedback, and efficient communication as essential elements of my design philosophy.
As an immigrant, I arrived in the U.S. driven solely by my passion for art and design. The journey has been a testament to my family’s unwavering support, providing me with everything they could to fuel my artistic ambitions. Gratitude is a core value for me, and I am continually working hard to demonstrate how much I appreciate their contributions and love.
One fun fact about myself—navigating the frustrating waiting process, I’ve successfully obtained the O1 visa twice—an achievement that I take immense pride in. Recognizing the value of what I have and maintaining a lifelong passion is a grounding principle in my life.
Beyond my full-time job, I’ve cultivated a love for illustration, providing a sanctuary of pure and free creative expression. This personal outlet becomes particularly invaluable when work challenges intensify, allowing me to maintain my creative spirit and find balance in my professional journey.
Looking ahead, I remain open to new opportunities and challenges. Whether it’s expanding my artistic endeavors or contributing to exciting projects, I am driven by a commitment to continuous growth, creativity, and gratitude for the journey thus far.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Hard Skills (Typography, Aesthetics, Software Proficiency): Intense training in essential design skills – typography, aesthetics, and mastering design software – forms the foundation. Continuous refinement is crucial; immerse yourself in training and real-world application.
2. Honesty (Authenticity and Open-mindedness):
I believe committing to authenticity and open-mindedness builds trust and fosters positive relationships.
3. Eagerness (Continuous Learning and Fearlessness in Inquiry):
A constant eagerness to learn and fearlessness in asking questions propel growth. Embrace the learning process, stay curious, and understand that the journey itself is a valuable teacher.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
My most significant area of growth has been in communication skills. This realization stems from my experience of burnout, highlighting the importance of open dialogue in overcoming challenges. Being an introvert presents its own set of challenges, but I’ve come to understand the crucial role that effective communication plays in resolving issues. I am still working on it but looking back at the progress I’ve made, I’m proud and I’m sure I’ll get even better!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sunnyli.design
- Instagram: sunny.design
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-tianqing-li/
