📝 Journal | Who inspires me the most and why
Came across this question in one of the job application forms, “Who inspires you the most and why?” At first, I was concerned if it would be a risk to give a “spiritual” answer to a “professional” question. But job hunting is like looking for the right date, either we share the same values or at the very least, appreciate and respect each other’s.
So here I am, sharing with you what I would like my prospective employers to know 💁🏻♀️.
Thay Thich Thong Tang, a Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk, is the person that inspires me most. He has been my meditation teacher for the past nine months. Through his teachings, I have been able to practice mindfulness and focus on perceiving things as they really are — without any self-judgment or emotional reaction. This practice has allowed me to cultivate a nonjudgmental awareness, undivided presence, and greater empathy.
These traits have been tremendously beneficial for my design practice. Approaching any problem with novelty opens up opportunities to get down to the root cause and come up with fresh ideas. Mindful listening and deep empathy help to not only get valuable insights from the users but also improve communication with team members and clients. Most importantly, developing my self-awareness enhances my ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations, constantly optimize my work quality and elevate others.
I would have not believed so fully in Thay Tang’s lessons if he did not live what he taught.
He always carries himself with absolute calmness and gives full attention to everything he does. Whenever I came to him to ask for advice, his answers came from a place of deep understanding and unlimited compassion.
