This week on Tumble Upward, I’m joined by Helen — a bright, thoughtful, and brilliantly self-aware writer and project manager who grew up believing that love was earned through achievement.

Raised in China under high cultural and parental expectations, Helen spent most of her life chasing perfection — academically, creatively, professionally. Her identity was built on “never enough”, even when she was excelling.

From studying art and fashion to pivoting into international management, Helen pushed herself beyond limits… until burnout hit hard. More than once.

But today, she’s rewriting the rules she grew up with.

In this episode, Helen opens up about:

• ​🌟 How her strict upbringing shaped her perfectionism
• ​🔥 What burnout really looked like behind the scenes
• ​🚪 The moment she realized success without peace isn’t success
• ​✍️ How writing became her safe space for healing
• ​🧘‍♀️ The small mindset shifts she uses now to maintain balance and self-kindness

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt like their worth is measured by their productivity.

🔗 Connect with Helen

• ​Instagram: cjhelen_
• ​Articles & Writing: http://linktr.ee/ExploreWithHelen