Navigating Uncertainty and Burnout
10/19/2024
Introduction
We brought together three seasoned professionals from diverse age groups (30s, 40s, and 50s) to discuss practical methods for managing workplace stress. The panel delved into various strategies, including mindfulness techniques and open communication.
-
Ling Niu
Senior TPM @ Snap
A seasoned IT professional with over 20 years of experience, Ling is currently a Senior Technical Program Manager at Snapchat. With a strong background that includes more than 10 years as a software developer, her career has spanned roles such as Product Manager, Engineering Manager, and Technical Program Manager. She combines deep technical expertise with leadership skills, facilitating cross-functional collaboration and driving innovation in product development. -
Shiny Cheng
Founder & CEO @ Mindful Heart Education
Shiny is the Founder & CEO of Mindful Heart Education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering from Fudan University and pursued an MBA at the University of Cambridge. Passionate about education and public welfare, she navigates a mindful life across China, the U.S., and the U.K., balancing her professional journey and personal values across multiple cultures. -
Kexin Xu
Founder @ Rise2gether
Kexin is the Founder of Rise2gether, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering Asian women in the workplace. Prior to this, she worked as a Product Manager at Dropbox and spent over a decade as a Data Scientist in various tech companies. Her experience spans both technical and leadership roles, and she is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in the professional world.
The event gathered three experienced professionals from different age groups to share practical approaches for managing workplace stress and overcoming burnout. Through this diverse panel, attendees gained insights into handling stress across different career stages and life experiences. The speakers shared strategies ranging from mindfulness practices to fostering open communication, aiming to equip participants with tools to navigate professional challenges more effectively.
One of the key discussions centered on the idea that struggles do not need to be compared or minimized. The panel encouraged participants to recognize their own difficulties without judgment, fostering a supportive atmosphere where individual experiences are validated. This notion of “letting the pain be seen” resonated strongly with the audience, helping many feel a weight lifted as they acknowledged their own challenges in a new light.
The event concluded with a guided mindfulness meditation session, allowing participants to unwind and temporarily release the burdens of daily life. This final segment offered a peaceful moment of reflection, leaving attendees feeling refreshed and ready to tackle their responsibilities with renewed clarity and resilience. Through practical advice and calming exercises, the panel provided a holistic approach to navigating workplace stress and burnout, empowering everyone to prioritize mental well-being in their professional journey.
