Shiyan Li Yin

My life started to spiral out of control not long ago. As a successful pianist from Beijing, China, I traveled constantly, performing in prestigious venues around the world. But two years ago, I also became a mother, and everything changed. My husband, also a musician, was always by my side, helping with our son. Yet, the demands of touring while caring for a baby left me exhausted. The endless flights and constant movement were hard on all of us, and the pressure to keep going felt impossible to escape.

We often talked about me slowing down, taking fewer performances. But I couldn’t say no to my management. The expectations were too high. Then, something happened that forced me to stop. On the way to a performance at Carnegie Hall in New York, a car accident changed everything. I was sitting in the back when another car crashed into us at a red light. Instinctively, I braced myself with my hands and broke my right wrist.

Instead of playing at one of the world’s most famous venues, I was rushed to the hospital. The doctors said I wouldn’t be able to perform for weeks. At first, it felt like my world had collapsed. But then, something unexpected happened—I finally had time. Time to spend with my son and husband. Time to rest.

At 36, it was the first time in years that I wasn’t consumed by work. The insurance covered all the costs, and I focused on simply being present with my family. Soon, I’ll be back on tour, once my wrist heals. But this time, I’ll make sure to take things a little easier.