We had the good fortune of connecting with Pearl Yang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pearl, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking has been a huge part to my journey, both personally and in my career. Early on, I had a secure career in finance, everything was mapped out, and I’d put in the hard work to get there. But I realized I wasn’t truly happy or able to be myself in a corporate job. So, I took a big risk and quit without a backup plan.

To me, taking risks means not letting fear hold you back from chasing your dreams. I started finding ways to make money online, exploring side hustles, and testing different approaches until I eventually found my path as a content creator. That journey has been one of the most rewarding risks I’ve taken, showing me that possibilities are endless and opening up opportunities I never imagined.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My content really reflects my journey from wanting “more” to learning how to make it happen. Growing up, we didn’t have a lot, and watching my parents struggle taught me early on that I wanted a financially stable future. So, I took the “safe” route, I started studying business at sixteen, got into finance, worked hard, and built a stable career. But honestly, I wasn’t happy in my work environment.

The moment I decided to quit was terrifying. I had no backup plan, and I was depressed. After exploring ways to make money online, experimenting with different side hustles, and figuring out what actually aligned with my values. Eventually, that journey led me to creating content and affiliate marketing.

Today, I’m most proud of building a space where people can feel inspired to go after what they want, believe they’re capable, and know they deserve a life they love. Self-care and financial wellness have become huge parts of my message because I’ve seen how important it is to take care of yourself first, especially when you’re going after big goals. I’m also working on building my brand, Motive VIII, which is all about taking that first step, even when it’s scary, and trusting that if you’re true to yourself, you’ll find your way.

If there’s one thing I hope people see in my story, it’s that no matter where you start or how uncertain things feel, you can build something amazing. My journey is about taking risks, betting on myself, and showing others they can do the same.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my besties were in town, I’d show them around Carlsbad Village, hitting the beach, doing a little shopping, and probably renting bikes to cruise along the coast. For brunch, we’d definitely go to Harumama Noodles + Buns because they make these adorable animal buns! I’d also take them to Del Mar to grab fresh croissants at Paris En Rose Bakery, one of my favorites! I’d love to take them paddleboarding or kayaking too. And on Wednesday nights, we’d hit up beach movie night with cozy blankets and movie snacks right on the sand.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my fiancé, Niko, who has been my rock through it all. He’s the one constantly reminding me to take care of myself and to go after what I love. I honestly couldn’t have done this without his support. And then there’s my cousin, Emily, she’s like an older sister, always pushing me to dream bigger and create a life I truly believe in.

A big part of my journey also came from reading You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero. That book sparked something in me. It helped me see my own potential and gave me the confidence to take risks, quit my corporate job, and start this path as a content creator. The love, support, and encouragement from these people, and even that book, have been huge for me. They all played such a key part in getting me to where I am today.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pearlyangg

Other: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pearleyang

Image Credits
Credit: Sphere Self-Portrait Photo Studio

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