In today’s fast-paced world, many of us search for something meaningful—an endeavor that makes the hard work, late nights, and countless hours worth it. For me, this pursuit has been nothing short of relentless. Starting my day at 8:00 AM and working non-stop until well past 9:45 PM has become a routine. This lifestyle, powered by little more than coffee and sheer determination, reflects survival and a deeply ingrained belief in the American dream—the ‘Golden Mountain’.
The concept of the ‘Golden Mountain’ is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. The term, or ‘gum san’ in Cantonese, emerged during the 1840s Gold Rush when news of California’s gold reached China, inspiring countless men to leave their homes and families in search of fortune. Many found hardship instead—facing discrimination, limited opportunities, and the stark reality that their dreams were far from guaranteed. Yet, the idea of America as a land of opportunity endured. For generations, it symbolized a place where, through relentless hard work, one could build a better future.
Today, as I juggle various tasks—from reselling items on eBay to teaching women’s kickboxing classes at my dojo—I find myself channeling the spirit of those early pioneers. Like them, I hustle day in and day out, sacrificing comfort for a vision that fuels me. Whether it’s moving pallets for shelves or working on an online coaching program, I take pride in knowing that I am investing in my future, crafting my own version of ‘gum san’.
Running a dojo and being self-employed has taught me that time is my most valuable currency. Every moment spent working, learning new software, or building a marketing funnel is time invested in my destiny. This pursuit has its challenges; there are days when my earnings amount to less than minimum wage. But belief in my mission keeps me going. I am in control of my time and my fate, just like the determined men who crossed oceans to chase a dream they believed in.
My dojo and business are my ‘Golden Mountain’. It’s what propels me forward, giving me the energy to skip meals, rely on quick fixes like coffee, and push myself beyond conventional limits. I share this story not to highlight the hardships but to emphasize the importance of finding your own ‘Golden Mountain’—that passion that makes sacrifice worthwhile and keeps you striving for more.
The American dream, as seen through this lens, remains powerful. While opinions about opportunity and responsibility vary, I align with the belief that America, at its core, is still a land of promise. A place where, if you have the courage to hustle, adapt, and create value, the possibilities are boundless. Like the Chinese immigrants of the Gold Rush, today’s entrepreneurs and dreamers must see challenges as stepping stones to success.
In the end, the search for your ‘Golden Mountain’ is about more than financial gain—it’s about the journey, the lessons learned, and the resilience built along the way. So, ask yourself: what is your ‘Golden Mountain’? What passion drives you to push past exhaustion and strive for greatness? Find it, pursue it, and let it be the fuel that keeps you moving forward.
If this resonates with you, I encourage you to share your own experiences. I’m working on more vlogs and aim to compile my stories, and those of my family, into a book that I hope one day turns into a captivating Hollywood movie. Until then, keep pushing for your own ‘Golden Mountain’—and don’t forget to cherish the journey.
