“I want to defeat the fears I noticed inside.”
In a world that often demands resilience, Mandy Zhang’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, reflection, and intentional growth.
Mandy’s professional journey at IDP has evolved from leading a team of document counsellors to optimising internal processes and managing strategic operational partnerships. But behind her career achievements lies a deeply personal journey- one marked by anxiety, disrupted sleep, and a courageous pursuit of wellbeing.
The Wake-Up Call
Since 2022, Mandy began experiencing sleep disturbances - light sleep, vivid dreams, and persistent daytime fatigue. Initially, she believed it was a natural part of aging, especially for women over 35, and possibly accelerated by the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Determined to improve her sleep, Mandy tried a wide range of remedies. She adjusted her bedtime routine: going to bed earlier, avoiding screens before sleep, and creating a dark, quiet environment. She supplemented with vitamin D, based on advice that limited sunlight exposure could be affecting her sleep quality. She also explored traditional Chinese remedies, including herbal teas, bitter medicinal liquids, and even acupuncture.
While some methods offered temporary relief, none provided lasting improvement. It wasn’t until she consulted an AI tool that she uncovered a deeper insight: her sleep issues were likely rooted in chronic anxiety. This realisation marked a turning point in her journey, shifting her focus from treating symptoms to understanding and addressing the underlying causes.
Three Years, Three Challenges
Mandy’s anxiety stemmed from three major life events:
COVID-19 Lockdown in Shanghai
– A 65-day lockdown, infection fears, and isolation from her husband created intense stress and fear for her and her daughter’s wellbeing
Workplace Uncertainty
– Post-pandemic economic shifts and the rise of AI led to fears of future readiness
Family Health Crisis
– Her mother’s tumour diagnosis added emotional strain, though thankfully it was treatable
These experiences compounded over time, affecting Mandy’s sleep, energy, and outlook.
Turning Anxiety into Action
Rather than surrendering to fear, Mandy chose to act. She embraced a philosophy of focusing on what she could control. Her strategies included:
Physical Wellbeing
Mandy created a personalised exercise schedule, incorporating yoga and simple daily movements. She tracked her progress with her daughter, celebrating small wins and building a sense of achievement.
Mental Engagement
She explored new interests like latte art and learning Cantonese, reigniting joy and curiosity in her daily life.
Professional Development
To confront her fear of AI, Mandy enrolled in online and government-sponsored courses, discovering that technology still needs human guidance. This empowered her and reduced her anxiety.
The Power of Connection
Mandy’s journey was not solitary. She found strength in conversations with colleagues, friends, and family. She emphasised the importance of sharing openly, normalising mental health discussions, and supporting one another, especially in cultures where such topics may still be sensitive.
A Message for Us All
Mandy’s story is a testament to the transformative power of self-awareness, community, and proactive growth. Her experience encourages us to:
Reflect on our own wellbeing
Take small, consistent steps toward improvement
Embrace learning and change
Support others through empathy and openness
In Mandy’s words, “I want to defeat the fears I noticed inside.” And she’s doing just that—one step, one schedule, one latte at a time.
Thank you, Mandy, for showing us that in a world where change and uncertainty dominate, being aware of your capability and wellbeing helps navigate and to focus on what we can control.
#ItsUpToMe to learn, grow, and develop.