Hard Work and Focus

An Interview

By Nathan K.

My mother is a very successful woman. You would expect most successful people to have started out like that, right? Well, it’s not that simple. For some, that’s the case – but not my mom. My mom came from a small, poor family in China. She came to the Americas when she was ten years old, in the fifth grade, not knowing any English at all. Pushing through these challenges, she would eventually graduate from UC Davis and pursue her cabinet selling company. My mother is seen as a hardworking, independent woman in our family, but in my eyes, she is a loving, caring mother who never fails to support her kids. For as long as I can remember, my mom has told me about how her dad had brought her to church every week when she was little. She also brought me to church when I was little. Every now and then, she would gather our family together to read the Bible and get closer to God. She has taught me about what is right and what is wrong. She tells me that she and my dad are here to guide me through what I should and shouldn’t do, kind of like a guiding stick for the blind. 

Who do you look up to and why? 

I look up to my dad. I look up to him because he's been a role model to me since I was little.  When I was little, he always told me that I needed to work hard and stay focused. You cannot shift back and forth or change your mind. Once you make up your mind, you have to focus. He told me, “No matter where you go or where you live, keep your religion; stay with God. Bring your family and your kids to church for as long as you live.” I’ve done that.

What was your childhood like? 

We were not as lucky as you guys. We had to do everything by hand. We didn’t have the same access to technology. We did our homework using paper and pen; we didn’t do homework on the computer. Our generation’s handwriting is much nicer because we have more practice.

What does your business mean to you? 

It’s my career, and it’s the thing I like to do. I use my business to make money, to raise my family.

What are some concerns or worries that you have for future generations? 

You guys are too into the tech stuff. You don’t do anything with your hands; you don't go outside. You stay indoors too much. It’s bad for your physical and mental health. 

What advice do you have for young people? 

Set a goal, aim for the goal, and be consistent. With anything you do, you have to stay focused. Just keep trying, keep trying. I always tell you guys, practice makes perfect. So if you keep trying and trying, you will not fail. Even if you fail many times, in the end, you will be successful.