Tracy Chu Explores the Idea of Living a Simple Life

In recent years, Tracy Chu (朱千雪) has slowed down her work output to focus on her education. However, in order to maintain a presence on screen, the 30-year-old actress still continues to take on commercial jobs and filming for variety shows. Tracy was the host for the first episode of Wishful Living <如果這樣生活>, which aired on June 11.

The theme of this episode, as quoted by Tracy in the introduction: “People want a lot of things, but in actuality, they only need very little.” To exemplify this motto, Tracy traveled to Japan and interviewed a local resident named Chiaki. A former teacher, Chiaki decided that she no longer wanted to slave after money and material goods. She quit her job and opened a small coffee shop instead.

When touring Chiaki’s home, Tracy noted the simple living space that had little to no décor and minimal furniture. In comparison to her salary as a teacher, Chiaki is making less money with her café, but has earned a lot more quality time with her family and friends. Chiaki expressed that she does not worry about the future because no one can be certain about what is going to happen tomorrow.

Reflecting on Chiaki’s wise words, Tracy confessed to being unable to live in the present. Instead, she works hard and plans for the future. Tracy admitted that she must learn to embrace this perspective and enjoy the current moment and her surroundings more.

Continuing on her journey of exemplifying simple living, Tracy then interviewed a young Japanese man, Mita, who runs a mobile book truck. Although Mita sells his books for more than 50 percent profit, the number of books sold varies. Despite his meager and unstable salary, his wife, who works as an administrative assistant, is supportive of his endeavors. Putting herself in the situation, Tracy believes she will also be supportive of her husband pursuing his passion. “At least you know he is a kind person and is passionate about life.”

Tracy attributed her more practical living style to the way the Hong Kong culture is. Chinese people, in general, tend to compare their lives and their material gains with one another. Furthermore, they would even compare things like their body figures and salaries.

In contrast, Tracy expressed that it was different when she lived in Canada. “While I was in school in Canada, they encouraged students to find their passion and what they like to do. There was no prejudice between class or wealth or jobs. Even my parents would tell me that it’s okay if I don’t complete college, because I can make a living by learning a trade. In Canada, a waiter/waitress can make a living to support children, have a roof over their heads, and a working vehicle. This type of lifestyle is less stressful. However, in Hong Kong, if you are not at least a doctor [or in some high-earning position], then you cannot support a mortgage.”

Source: hket

This article is written by Huynh for JayneStars.com.