Based in Seattle, Washington, Cynthia Hwang has served as a banker and vice president at a major financial institution since 2018. Previously, Cynthia Hwang served the same company as a senior business relationship manager.
As a banker, Cynthia Hwang assists individual and family clients in developing long-term wealth management strategies. She also collaborates with internal partners on matters of new client acquisition. As a senior business relationship manager, Cynthia Hwang managed portfolios for business clients with annual revenues between $10 million and $20 million.
Cynthia Hwang served as a member of the University Sales Club during her undergraduate studies at the University of Washington. In addition to her business degree, she received a certificate of international studies in business. She continued her education at the Gonzaga University Graduate School of Business, where her graduate studies emphasized international business and marketing.
Her interests away from work include Asian American activism in the Pacific Northwest and yoga. Cynthia Hwang is the creator of the Asian Wealth Initiative and is working toward her 500-hour certification as a yoga instructor.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
Imagine waking up to the gentle hum of a city that never sleeps. The sun peeks through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the room. My day begins with a ritualistic cup of coffee, its aroma filling the air with promise. As I sip, I plan my day, setting intentions and goals. Productivity is woven into the fabric of my day through structured time blocks, each dedicated to a specific task. I embrace the rhythm of the day, allowing creativity to flow during the morning hours and analytical tasks to take center stage in the afternoon. The key to productivity lies in balance and the ability to adapt to the day’s unfolding narrative.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Ideas are like seeds, waiting to be nurtured into full bloom. I start by capturing them in a journal, a treasure trove of thoughts and inspirations. Each idea is examined, its potential explored through brainstorming sessions with trusted colleagues. Collaboration is the sunlight that helps these ideas grow. Once an idea takes root, I create a roadmap, outlining the steps needed to bring it to fruition. It’s a journey of trial and error, but with persistence and passion, ideas transform into reality, leaving a lasting impact.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The trend of sustainable living is a beacon of hope in today’s world. It’s a movement that resonates deeply, promising a future where harmony with nature is prioritized. The rise of eco-friendly products, renewable energy, and conscious consumerism excites me. It’s a trend that empowers individuals to make choices that benefit both the planet and themselves. The narrative of sustainability is one of innovation and responsibility, and it’s thrilling to witness its growth.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
The habit of mindfulness is my anchor in the sea of productivity. By practicing mindfulness, I cultivate a sense of presence and focus. It allows me to approach tasks with clarity and intention, reducing distractions and enhancing efficiency. Whether it’s through meditation or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply, mindfulness is the thread that weaves productivity into the tapestry of my day.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Dear younger self, embrace the journey with open arms. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes, for they are the steppingstones to growth. Trust in your abilities and follow your passions, even when the path seems uncertain. Remember that every experience, whether good or bad, is a lesson that shapes you into the person you are meant to become. Cherish the moments of joy and learn from the challenges, for they are the essence of life.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a part of it. While many view failure as a setback, I see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a belief that challenges the conventional narrative, but I’ve found that embracing failure leads to resilience and innovation. It’s a perspective that encourages experimentation and creativity, paving the way for breakthroughs.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I recommend the practice of gratitude. Each day, I take a moment to reflect on the things I’m grateful for, whether big or small. It’s a habit that shifts the focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant, fostering a positive mindset. Gratitude is a powerful tool that enhances well-being and strengthens relationships, and I encourage everyone to incorporate it into their daily routine.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I’m overwhelmed, I retreat to nature. A walk in the park or a hike in the mountains clears my mind and restores my focus. The beauty of the natural world is a reminder of the simplicity and tranquility that can be found amidst chaos. It’s a sanctuary where I can recalibrate and return to my tasks with renewed energy and clarity.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Networking has been a cornerstone of my career growth. Building genuine connections with others in my field has opened doors to opportunities and collaborations. By attending industry events and engaging in meaningful conversations, I’ve expanded my network and gained valuable insights. Networking is not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about fostering relationships that lead to mutual growth and success.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early in my career, I launched a project that didn’t meet expectations. It was a humbling experience, but it taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. I overcame this failure by analyzing what went wrong and implementing changes. The lesson I took away was that failure is a steppingstone to success, and it’s essential to learn from it and move forward with determination.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A business idea that holds promise is a platform for virtual mentorship. In today’s digital age, connecting mentors with mentees across the globe can bridge gaps and foster growth. This platform would offer personalized mentorship experiences, leveraging technology to create meaningful connections and empower individuals to achieve their goals.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Trello is a software that enhances my productivity. I use it to organize tasks and projects, creating boards that visually represent my workflow. Trello’s intuitive interface allows me to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members. It’s a tool that streamlines processes and keeps me on track, ensuring that productivity is maintained.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a book that has profoundly impacted me. Its narrative of self-discovery and pursuing one’s dreams resonates deeply. The book’s wisdom and philosophical insights have guided me through various stages of life, encouraging me to follow my heart and embrace the journey.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed the series Ted Lasso. Its heartwarming story and positive message are a breath of fresh air. The series highlights the importance of kindness, teamwork, and resilience, offering valuable lessons in both personal and professional life. It’s a reminder that optimism and empathy can lead to success and fulfillment.
Key learnings
- Embrace failure as a steppingstone to success, learning from each experience to grow and innovate.
- Cultivate gratitude and mindfulness to enhance productivity and well-being.
- Networking and building genuine connections are essential for career growth and opportunities.
- Sustainable living is a trend that promises a harmonious future, encouraging conscious choices.
- Creativity and adaptability are key to bringing ideas to life and overcoming challenges.