An Interview with Taiwanese YouTuber Zhang Xiu Xiu
This article summarizes an interview with Zhang Xiu Xiu, a Taiwanese YouTuber, where he discusses his life, career, and philosophy. The interview covers his childhood, his experiences traveling the world, his struggles with imposter syndrome, and his current goals.
Early Life and Influences
Zhang Xiu Xiu began by reflecting on a video he had seen two years prior, which sparked an immediate interest in meeting and understanding him. He perceived a complex and exciting life story behind his online persona. He also reflects on the expectations that he would become a civil servant or teacher when he grew up. But he asks the question "Why do you think stability is good?" This influenced him to make unusual choices in his life.
Xiu Xiu's life, as described, seems to be a paradox. There were shining moments, such as his bicycle journey around the world and the publication of his book, I'm Not Going to Die, which promoted bicycle travel in Taiwan. He also received support from top YouTubers. However, fate also seemed to constantly challenge him. He has stated he felt not good enough.
College and Early Career
Zhang Xiu Xiu shared that his passion for video games, particularly RPGs like Final Fantasy, had a significant impact on his life. He was fascinated by the hero's journey and the idea of upgrading his skills. However, his excessive gaming led to him being expelled from college. He attempted university three times before ultimately earning a master's degree.
After graduating, he chose a career in technology sales, opting to be a salesperson rather than an engineer. He sought international opportunities to improve his English, leading him to Australia for environmental work. He then secured a position at a major computer company.
Experiences in India and a Career Change
He was sent to India as part of China's investment initiative, but he found the experience isolating and challenging. He described it as a time when he felt mentally unstable and disconnected. Eventually, he decided to leave and return to Taiwan.
Back in Taiwan, he joined MediaTek, an IC design house, where he earned a substantial income. However, he began to question his contributions to society, feeling a sense of imposter syndrome. This led him to resign and embark on a new adventure: traveling around the world by bicycle.
Traveling the World and Writing a Book
Inspired by the book No Go Will Die, Zhang Xiu Xiu embarked on a six-month bicycle journey from Xiamen to Urumqi. He saw this as an opportunity to contribute to Taiwan and find his own truth. After returning, he wrote a book about his experiences, which gained some initial success but did not lead to widespread fame.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Imposter Syndrome
Zhang Xiu Xiu pursued several entrepreneurial ventures, including a route travel app and a travel blog. However, these projects faced challenges, and he realized that he struggled with the "hustle culture" of Silicon Valley.
His struggle with imposter syndrome continued, stemming from a feeling of being ignored and underestimated during childhood. This led to a cycle of self-doubt and a constant need to prove his worth.
Meeting Dan Mace and the Pandemic
Zhang Xiu Xiu successfully invited YouTuber Dan Mace to Taiwan to collaborate on a project, which became a significant milestone in his career. However, the pandemic disrupted his plans to promote Taiwan as a bicycle tour destination.
The pandemic forced him to adapt and create online courses on video shooting and editing. He also faced economic pressures and marital challenges during this time.
A Turning Point and a YouTube Career
After a period of struggle, several key events led to a turning point. His father was diagnosed with cancer, his daughter was born, and he experienced a cycling accident. These events prompted him to prioritize his health and well-being.
He then secured a position at Intel, which provided financial stability. Eventually, he decided to leave Intel and focus on his YouTube channel, which he saw as a way to connect with others, share his knowledge, and build a business.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Future Goals
Zhang Xiu Xiu credits his daughter with helping him overcome his imposter syndrome. He realized that he was worthy of good things and that he had something valuable to offer the world.
He described his philosophy as the desire to allow those around him to live a good life.
His current goal is to create a community and online courses to share his knowledge of health and fitness. He aims to reach 1 million people and empower them to improve their lives. He wants to help people understand how their body works. He has said that exercise is the best non-expensive resource that they can use.
He acknowledges the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome and perfectionism, but he is determined to push forward and make a positive impact on the world. He has stated he is more cautious of partnerships and only promotes the products that he trusts.
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