Longines ambassador Zhao Yi Ling answers our questions about time and memories.

Anyone who doubts the effectiveness of talent shows ought to look at Zhao Yi Ling. The 31-year-old was plucked from obscurity when she won a talent search contest, and quickly went on to snare acting awards, as well as leading roles in various television series. But it was in 2015 when Zhao became a bona fide superstar, after starring in The Journey of Flower, a fantasy-martial arts drama series that became the first Chinese drama to garner more than 20 billion views online.

One of the most bankable Chinese celebrities today, Zhao enjoyed a recent great run in 2017. Last year, in addition to starring in her first feature films with the likes of Eddie Peng and Aaron Kwok, Zhao was listed by Forbes China as one the 30 most influential people under the age of 30. On the endorsement front, Zhao scored big when she was enlisted by Longines and Dior to be their brand ambassador.

Describe your current state of mind.
Restful. There is always a season for work and a season for rejuvenation. Right now, I’m taking a rest to reinvigorate myself and to recalibrate. I actually feel relaxed and peaceful at the moment.

Tell us about your favourite memory.
Every moment that passes becomes a memory. It is hard to pinpoint any specific moment because even the most mundane ones can be precious when you look back on it. Most experiences in life are unforgettable, because they will never happen again. However hard you try, you’ll always miss out on something in life. So let’s just enjoy the moment.

Which part of the day are you at your most productive, and why?
It is all about discipline and attitude. I think you can be productive at any time as long as you focus on what you want to do.

If you were to travel back in time, which moment or era would you choose?
Time travel is not something that I would consider. I am someone who lives in the present. For me, it is more important to live every minute of the present moment to the fullest, to cherish your family and friends, which are most precious things in life.

What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
I would tell her that life is not a race, but a journey to be savoured every step of the way.