Joyce Tzu Chun Chang is a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and business leader known for her multifaceted expertise across diverse industries. With a career spanning decades, Chang has left an indelible mark on the realms of finance, education, and entrepreneurship.
Born into a family deeply rooted in Taiwan’s wealth logistics and mining sectors, Chang’s upbringing instilled in her the values of hard work, resilience, and self-reliance from a young age. She began her journey into the business world at the age of 13, under her father’s guidance, and has since embarked on a path of continuous learning and growth.
Chang’s educational background is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She holds a dual degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Illinois at Chicago, complemented by an MBA certificate in Aerospace from a USA corporate training program. Additionally, she possesses CPA (CA) Level 3 qualifications in both the USA and Canada, solidifying her financial acumen.
Throughout her illustrious career, Chang has made significant contributions to various sectors. From her roles as an accountant and financial advisor for major aerospace corporations to her establishment of private colleges in Vancouver, Canada, she has demonstrated a knack for innovation and success. Notably, Chang’s ventures in the education sector have revolutionized international education networks, providing invaluable resources and opportunities for students and educators alike.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Chang is a dedicated philanthropist, actively involved in initiatives supporting education, healthcare, and community development. Her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society underscores her status as a compassionate leader and role model.
Joyce Tzu Chun Chang’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide, exemplifying the transformative power of perseverance, education, and visionary leadership in achieving success and leaving a lasting legacy.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day starts early with a review of my schedule and priorities. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, allocating time for strategic planning, meetings, and focused work. Regular breaks and staying organized help maintain productivity throughout the day.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I bring ideas to life through a structured approach, starting with thorough research and feasibility analysis. Collaborating with a diverse team allows for different perspectives and innovative solutions. I believe in taking calculated risks and iterating based on feedback to refine ideas into actionable plans.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The increasing focus on sustainability and ethical business practices excites me. As a firm believer in corporate responsibility, I’m encouraged by the growing awareness and commitment to environmental and social impact within the business community.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Prioritizing tasks and setting clear goals is a habit that significantly enhances my productivity. By breaking down larger projects into manageable tasks and maintaining a structured routine, I can stay focused and effectively manage my time.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth and success. Every setback presents an opportunity for learning and improvement, so I would encourage myself to persevere, stay resilient, and never be afraid to take risks.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that true success is not solely defined by financial wealth but by the positive impact we make on others and the world around us. While many prioritize material gains, I advocate for a more holistic approach to success that encompasses personal fulfillment and social responsibility.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Regular reflection and self-assessment are essential practices that I consistently prioritize and recommend to others. Taking time to evaluate goals, progress, and areas for improvement allows for continuous growth and development.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When feeling overwhelmed or unfocused, I step back and reassess my priorities. I find that taking a short break, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in physical activity helps clear my mind and regain focus.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Building strong relationships and fostering a network of mentors and collaborators has been instrumental in my professional growth. Leveraging the expertise and support of others has opened doors to new opportunities and accelerated my career trajectory.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One failure in my career was underestimating the importance of adaptability and agility in a rapidly changing market. I overcame this setback by embracing change, staying proactive, and continuously seeking opportunities for innovation. This experience taught me the invaluable lesson of resilience and the necessity of staying ahead of industry trends.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
An idea I’m willing to share is the development of a platform that connects small businesses with sustainable suppliers and resources. This would facilitate eco-friendly practices and support businesses in aligning with environmentally conscious consumer trends.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
One software that greatly enhances my productivity is project management software like Asana. I use it to organize tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with team members. Its intuitive interface and customizable features streamline workflow and ensure efficient task management.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
One of my favorite books is “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg, which offers valuable insights on leadership, gender equality, and career advancement. It resonates with me due to its empowering message and practical advice for navigating the challenges of the workplace.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Recently, I enjoyed watching the series “The Crown” for its captivating storytelling and historical insights into leadership and power dynamics. It offers a fascinating perspective on the complexities of governance and the human experience within the realm of royalty.
Key learnings:
- Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Joyce emphasizes the importance of viewing failure as a stepping stone to growth and success. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement, individuals can cultivate resilience and persevere in the face of adversity.
- Prioritize Continuous Learning: Continuous learning and self-assessment are essential habits for personal and professional development. Joyce underscores the value of regularly reflecting on goals, progress, and areas for improvement to drive continuous growth and innovation.
- Build Strong Relationships: Building strong relationships and fostering a network of mentors and collaborators is crucial for career advancement and business success. Leveraging the expertise and support of others can open doors to new opportunities, accelerate growth, and navigate challenges effectively.