Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anita Lau. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anita, we are so happy that our community is going to have a chance to learn more about you, your story and hopefully even take in some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Let’s start with self-care – what do you do for self-care and has it had any impact on your effectiveness?
It took me a while to discover that self-care involves more than external indulgences, which has transformed my approach over the last decade. While facials and holidays are enjoyable, I realized that they were quick fixes, and never lasts long enough. After several major burn-outs, I decided to prioritize my mental health after a friend suggested I give it a go, eight years ago.
Therapy became, and still is, a pivotal part of my life. As I started on my mental well-being, I noticed positive changes in other aspects of my life as well. Now, when I feel anxious or stressed, I retreat to my own space for a recharge, relying on internal methods that don’t require external stimuli. This shift has significantly improved my overall well-being.
Being in a positive space allows me to better serve causes close to my heart. Several years ago, my friends and I established The Asian Aunties to provide WISEplace women’s shelter with delicious, healthy meals. My friends and I are part of the food industry and community, so it is extremely fulfilling to bring our knowledge and experience to contribute to such meaningful initiatives. We believe that food is our love language and that eating good, healthy foods is essential to one’s physical health, as well as mental health. It feels like by taking care of my own mental health, I am able to help others as well.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’ve had a really fun and incredible 30 years as a food writer both in Asia and the US, but lately, my focus has shifted towards charitable causes. In 2021, my friends and I founded The Asian Aunties, dedicated to serving the women at WISEplace shelter in Santa Ana. Two of us are proud members of Les Dames d’Escoffier, a women’s philanthropic organization in the food and hospitality industries. Whether it’s cooking meals in our own kitchens or organizing yard sales to raise funds, every effort, big or small, feels rewarding, knowing we’re making a difference in someone else’s life. We’re always on the lookout for volunteers and hope to expand our reach to support even more causes in the future.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my journey, I’ve found that consistency, persistence, and a commitment to lifelong learning have been crucial. It’s essential to align with your passions, always staying open-minded and ready to absorb new information is key. Being a source of support and knowledge for others has shown me that the exchange of learning is a two-way street. By enriching others’ experiences, I find profound satisfaction in knowing that I’ve played a part in helping them on their journey. The intrinsic reward of positively impacting someone’s endeavors is truly a fulfilling one.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
These days, when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I take time to hermit for a while, and recharge. It took me a while to realize this, pushing myself to the limit when I didn’t have the bandwidth to do so. By acknowledging my own needs, I’ve minimized those overwhelming feelings. Always take time for yourself because you can’t help others if you are not okay. Find ways that work best for you. Even if it is 30 minutes of hiding in your room, listening to music, reading a book, then take it. Do not make excuses that you don’t have time. It’s all about choices and priorities. You matter!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @theasianaunties @themadhungrywoman
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diaryofamadhungrywoman
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-lau-2a8500/
- Yelp: anita.yelp.com
- Other: TikTok: @madhungrywoman
Image Credits
Photos all Anita Lau
