Breaking out of my Korean Box
As a Korean-American I had so much fear about what people might say or how many followers/subscribers I would get with my social media channels. The ideas and video editing skills were there, but my pride got in the way. The obstacle of insecurity had such a great handle on my neck. As a child, failure was not an option. That was drilled in an extreme way as my parents wouldn't even accept an A- as adequate. Anything less than an A on my report card or test was considered missing the mark. For most Koreans and Asians, this is where insecurity is birthed. It took me 6 years sharing out loud with my wife that I wanted to start a Youtube channel. I finally did it, in April of 2019.
Being able to silence the noise of haters or pessimists takes time to build up. I mean, it took me 6 years to defend myself against my own fear. It was one of the strongest opponents that led the charge for my insecurity. I am still mastering the skill and it's a long road. But once you start, it is liberating. For a Korean guy like me, being able to edit, post and just enjoy the process brought me into a world of freedom that has helped me to be more bold and creative. In my Korean culture, taking risks is often not encouraged. I remember when I got into USC and told my parents that I wanted to study music recording (sadly that program no longer exists there). My mom didn't even have a clue of what that meant. She was so confused about why I would want to go to such an expensive college and study that. Now, imagine what it was like when I told my parents that I wanted to be a pastor after I graduated college. Oh my goodness, that story must be shared later.
I didn't take risks growing up. I stayed in my lane, avoided conflict, never went to a high school dance (yes even missed my senior prom), attended youth group every Friday and Sunday at church, listened to mostly everything my parents said, never EVER went out on a school night and did my homework as soon as I got home from school. I tell everyone I was a goodie-goodie. It's true. I value and am thankful for my culture and the many lessons I have learned. But I also missed out on a lot of other lessons. So sadly I learned this very late in the game.
Some may criticize me with only 100 or so followers on IG and subs on my YT channel. However most of them have no idea that the skill of silencing haters is the win here. Being able to topple fear and go for it "wisely" is what I want others to learn, especially other Asians who don't have the opportunity very much to practice this.
There's no paid class or free first session and then pay for the 2nd. This is just me reaching out to anyone who wants to learn, begin a journey of liberation and perhaps follow through with some of your passions and dreams. Let's connect and I am here to serve you. Connect with me through any of my social media channels.
