(fatty)15 Questions: A Day in My Life with Lulu Chang

Hate to say it, but I check my phone. Those CNN push notifications are enough to send a gal to an early grave.

Question 2: Do you have breakfast in the morning? Do you drink coffee, and if so, what do you normally add?

I’ve been intermittently fasting as of late, which has been a REAL exercise in self-control. My healthy option is normally overnight oats, whereas my indulgence is always a bagel sandwich.

I do [drink coffee]! I take it either black or with a non-dairy milk -- I alternate among all the nut milks, oat milk, and lately, hemp milk.

Question 3: What does your morning routine consist of? What is one beauty or wellness product that you could not live without and why?

I either work out or play the piano first thing in the morning before my first work meetings. I’m a huge sucker for fitness apps -- whether it’s an audio workout from Aaptiv or a live streaming class from FitReserve (go for the 305 Fitness, Title Boxing, or SBX boxing routines), they kickstart my day.

Question 4: We know your schedule can get crazy! What is a typical workday like? Is there one thing that excites you most about what you do?

There’s definitely no such thing as typical, which always makes for more fun. I love the constant learning process that is endemic to my job — it’s great to constantly have my curiosity piqued.

Question 5: It can be tough to stay motivated. How are you staying motivated or inspired this year? Any tips you can share?

I think the darkness of 2020 has also brought out the best, most empathetic sides of people, and I’m doing all I can to hang onto those moments of brightness. I’m also constantly reminding myself that we’re fully capable of implementing the change we need to see in our own immediate vicinity, and that’s been a helpful perspective to maintain despite the craziness of the larger world.

Question 6: What sources do you turn to for inspiration? (e.g., people, podcasts, social channels, articles, news, etc.)

2020 has also given me a newfound appreciation for my friends. The random phone call is a lot more frequent in recent months, and my friends and I are much more intentional than ever before about staying in touch. The incredible women in my life inspire me every day, and I feel so lucky to know them.

Question 7: Do you have a work-from-home and/or Zoom-call uniform? (i.e. headbands, accessories, office-appropriate on top, sweatpants on bottom, etc.)

The more comfortable I am, the better. I have a rotation of oversized cardigans and tights that have really gotten me through these last several months.

Question 8: Health and wellness is at the center of 2020. Do you have a fitness routine? If so, what is your favorite fitness activity?

I’m a huge kickboxer and cardio dancer. Before my gym reopened, I also finally restarted my running routine, which was a nice change of pace.

Question 9: Are there any snacks that you keep by your desk? What is your go to snack for a pick-me-up? Any preferred healthy snacks (fruit, almonds, etc.) or unhealthy snacks?

I actually purposefully remove myself from snacks when I’m working, otherwise I’ll just eat to give myself something different to do. I always turn to peanut butter for a pick-me-up (Perfect Bars are the best), and I’m in love with PopServe popcorn for an indulgence. From a healthy-ish perspective, I always go to Quinn snacks.

Question 10: One of the biggest components of our wellness journey is food. Do you have any dietary restrictions? 

I’m very fortunate not to have any dietary restrictions, though I claim to be a pescetarian.

Question 11: Work-life balance is more essential than ever right now. Do you do anything to clear your mind after work? Are there any tips you can share on how you unwind and unplug?

I go on very regular long-ish walks. Every two hours or so, I’ll do a mile, which is incredibly invigorating and helps me reset for the next work sprint.

Question 12: Do you prefer to cook or order in? What is your go-to dinner entree to whip up or if you prefer take-out, what is your favorite restaurant to order from?

Whenever my partner is around, we certainly prefer to cook. We love making dishes inspired by our cultures, which means a lot of Asian and African/Caribbean cooking.

Question 13: We all want to age gracefully. What is your biggest health concern(s) as you age?

Maintaining vitality. I worry that my energy levels will dip!

Question 14: What is the last thing you do before you go to sleep? 

I watch television for the express purpose of falling asleep.

Question 15: As we draw closer to the end of 2020, have you begun to think about any goals or resolutions for 2021? If so, what are they?

Do whatever I can in my power to make 2021 better than 2020.

This or That

• Milk Alternative or Whole Milk
• Coffee or Tea
• Skincare or Make-up
• Filter or No-Filter
• Breakfast or Dinner
• TV or Books
• Still or Sparkling
• Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt
• Sweet or Savory
• Protein Bar or Protein Shake