Carina Lau wearing a Chanel Quilted Stars necklace in white and yellow gold, sapphires, onyx, white and yellow diamonds and a Chanel dress
Cover Carina Lau wearing a Chanel Quilted Stars necklace in white and yellow gold, sapphires, onyx, white and yellow diamonds and a Chanel dress
Carina Lau wearing a Chanel Quilted Stars necklace in white and yellow gold, sapphires, onyx, white and yellow diamonds and a Chanel dress

This issue’s cover star, iconic actress Carina Lau, shares with Tatler insights from her past decades and her vision for the future

In my 20s

I was rushing from one drama to the next, barely catching my breath. Despite the constant work, I missed opportunities for deeper learning and personal growth. There was so little time to truly absorb and reflect. If only I had carved out more moments to immerse myself in films and literature, to broaden my horizons and deepen my understanding of the craft. Knowledge, I’ve come to realise, is an actor’s most valuable asset.

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In my 30s

Looking back at my 30s, I realise I was still squandering time on socialising and indulging in frivolous pastimes. I should have been arming myself with skills and knowledge for my work. But I don’t regret it entirely—I simply didn’t have the energy for that then, and everything felt so chaotic and noisy. At the moment, I crave more tranquillity, seeking opportunities to interact with myself on a deeper level. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of embracing new technologies and continuously acquiring fresh knowledge.

In my 40s

My 40s marked a significant turning point in my life. It was a period of profound change as I began to truly mature and develop a deep-seated confidence. This newfound self-assurance transformed my perspective, allowing me to see the world and the people around me in a completely different light. This shift wasn’t just noticeable; it was transformative. Looking back, I can confidently say it was a very positive change, one that has shaped my outlook and approach to both my personal life and my career in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.

Looking at the future

Looking ahead, I’m filled with excitement about the endless possibilities that await. I’ve discovered that age is no barrier to relevance or success. The key is to embrace yourself fully—your experiences, your wisdom, your uniqueness—and the world will, in turn, embrace you. I’ve learnt that staying curious is vital. It keeps you young at heart, open to new experiences and continuously growing. The world is constantly changing, and I’m eager to change with it, always ready for the next adventure or challenge that comes my way.