Out and About Mag Issue 8 Vol. 2

Volume 2
Issue 8
September
2020
7 STEPS TO
DISCOVER
YOUR
PURPOSE
How Augmented
Reality is
Redefining
the Fashion Game
STANDARDS
OF BEAUTY
AROUND THE WORLD
Taking Lessons from
Omar
Al Busaidy
Creating Opportunities, Launching Visions:
Lessons from Hawas Group’s Founder
Behind the brand with
PRESTON
MCINTYRE
Co-founder of Holding Space
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Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.
African Proverb
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Editorial
Editor in chief
Marsha Fry
marsha@outandaboutmag.com
Editor
Shella landayan
info@outandaboutmag.com
art
advertising
Art director
nakul thanekar
nakul.thanekar89@gmail.com
sales & marketing director
Andre Marshal
+971 50 127 8820
sales@outandaboutmag.com
general enquiries
On this
month's
cover
Interview
Ahmed Hawas
hello@outandaboutmag.com
outandaboumagofficial
outandaboumagofficial
outandaboutmagofficial
www.outandaboutmag.com
Photographer:
VKLYBE TV DUBAI.
Published by Out and About Style FZE
(Registered at Fujairah Creative City)
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EDITOR’S
WELCOME
Work, love, and play are the
great balance wheels in a
man’s being
~ Orison Swett Maden
Hustle, rise and shine, and repeat. This is our everyday
cycle: to live the daily grind. Work is an integral part of our
lifestyle, a continuous gear that moves for us to sustain
our living. Most of us, however, experience a slump in our
careers; or perhaps a period of burnout and exhaustion.
Some, unfortunately, get the point of being finally tired of
what they have been doing. We get to watch or read stories
of successful people featured in televisions, interviews
and magazines and wonder how they did it and got to
where they are now. You then question yourself: Why can’t
I do that? Why can’t I be happy while doing what I need
to do? It seems that most of these highly-effective people
have one thing in common: they find balance in their lives.
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To work productively and lead happier lives, we need
to establish balance in all aspects of our lives. This way,
we will never feel permanently exhausted, allowing us
to repeat the daily cycle of hustle. Enjoy moments of
love with your family and friends, get that day off that
you know you deserve, and enjoy even the littlest things
you have in life.
We at Out and About Magazine will continuously
encourage you to seek knowledge and inspiration to
keep you in the lane of positivity and happiness.
Features and Highlights
In our Fashion feature, we researched on How
Augmented Reality is Redefining the Fashion Game
to give you insight into how technology is creatively
incorporated in the fashion industry.
Want to upgrade your skincare and makeup routine?
Check out What’s in my Beauty Stash?, and check if
products mentioned suit you too! Learn the Standards
of Beauty Around the World and discover how beauty,
culture and history moulded the concept of beauty of
various countries.
We interviewed the founder of Hawas Group: Ahmed
Hawas. He shared with us his stories and lessons about
success, leadership and entrepreneurship.
We are also given the opportunity to interview Preston
Mcintyre, the co-founder of Holding Space AD Limited
who will give you encouragement with his words focused
on business and success. Read their inspiring interviews
in Behind the Brand.
We also listened to inspiring lessons about life, career
and business from Omar Al Busaidy, an Emirati author
who penned Just Read It. Find out more about him in
Taking Lessons. Nadia Parekh, Melange Dubai founder
and passionate pastry chef, shares her love for food,
culture and entrepreneurship in our Talent Pool section.
Dreams and reveries from yesteryears ought to be
remembered and memorialised. Vyara Tosheva, a
Wellness Expert and Consultant, wrote a moving piece
about life and getting to know oneself in Gift of Love
for my 40th Birthday in our Voices feature.
In Lifestyle, we’ll tell you more about leading your life
and career with balance, productivity and happiness.
Discover how to Jumpstart your Career and prepare
for future work, all while learning about the 7 Steps
to Discover your Purpose and find the passions that
release The Flow that keeps you happy and motivated.
We took a gastronomic tour in Lebanon as well to
give you a taste of its exotic cuisine. See where your
tastebuds will take you with 5 Must-Try Lebanese
Dishes in our Food feature. If you’re experiencing or
have experienced low mobility, then you need to learn
more about How to Stay Fit and Healthy with Low
Mobility in our Fitness section. Experience a taste of
the Arabian all-year summer vibe and indulge in the
Contemporary Luxury at Saadiyat Rotana Resort and
Villas in our Travel review.
Enrich your knowledge and leadership skills with our
featured article in For The Culture about Charismatic
Leadership and lead with the right emotions. In our
Book Review by Leisa Grace Wilson, she writes about
Turning Pro by Steven Pressfield to tap your inner
power and create your life’s work.
Finding Balance to Lead Happier Lives
Everyone deserves a life that not only revolves around
productivity and career growth, but also on the greater
things that matter: family, friends, as well as physical
and mental health. The most productive people on
earth know that they can only excel when they find that
balance in other aspects of their lives to keep them
going.
We are able to work most effectively when we’re
motivated, inspired and well-rested. Out and About
Magazine, with the amazing team that made this issue
possible, encourages you to keep the balance and stay
on track of success and happiness.
outandaboumagofficial outandaboumagofficial outandaboutmagofficial
5

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Al Huwelat Street, Villa No 15 - 4
Al Bateen , Al Falah St - Abu Dhabi, Tel: 02 666 0175

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9
SECTION 1
FASHION
• How Augmented Reality is Redefining the Fashion Game
CONTENTS
September 2020
13
SECTION 2
BEAUTY
• What’s in my Beauty Stash?
• Standards of Beauty Around the World
25
47
SECTION 3
BEHIND THE BRAND
• Ahmed Hawas, Founder, The Hawas Group
• Preston McIntyre, Co-Founder, Holding Space AD Limited
SECTION 4
TAKING LESSONS
• Omar Al Busaidy, Author, Just Read It
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67
76
SECTION 5
TALENT POOL
• Nadia Parekh, Pastry Chef and
Entrepreneur, Melange Dubai
SECTION 6
VOICE
• Gift of Love for My 40th Birthday
Lessons and Musings from Vyara Tosheva
SECTION 7
LIFESTYLE
• Jumpstart Your Career: Preparing for
Future Work
• 7 Steps to Discover Your Purpose
• The Flow: The Secret to a Happier Life
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111
SECTION 8
TRAVEL
• Sheer Opulence at Ottoman-inspired
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
SECTION 9
FOR THE CULTURE
• Charismatic Leadership: Leading
with the Right Emotions
• Book Review: Turning Pro by
Steven Pressfield
93
FOOD
• 5 Must-Try Lebanese Dishes
97
FITNESS
• How to Stay Fit and Healthy with Low Mobility
8
Out and About Magazine tasks no responsibility for unsolicited
photographs or material. The photographs in this publication are for
illustration purposes, unless otherwise specified.

FASHION
How Augmented
Reality is Redefining
the Fashion Game
Fashion is an ever-evolving field. The 2.4 trillion dollar-worth industry has always been open
to new trends, whether it is channelled via conventional fashion shows and multimedia
marketing, or e-commerce and other online platforms. With such a drive for keeping up
with the trends, fashion is now moving towards the latest in technology: Augmented Reality.
Augmented reality, or AR, is a technology that functions to add to the reality which you
would ordinarily experience, except without changing this reality for you in real life. To
put it into simpler words, AR is like a Snapchat filter! Augmented reality is a tool that has
revolutionised how consumers interact with different franchises and markets. Today, AR is
changing the way the fashion industry creates and showcases fashion wear and accessories.
9

Fashion, like every business field, demands the establishment of strong
and steady relations between the brand and customers. Customers
need to be engaged and remain that way. To captivate the audience,
innovative strategies and well-planned policies using augmented reality
are developed. Brands can grant its audience with the AR experience
in both their walk-in stores and online shopping websites. AR allows
brands to connect with their customers seamlessly. This also shows to
the customers that the brand is willing to work the extra mile to provide
them with value and better service. Studies show that around 60 - 65%
of customers felt more engaged with the fashion brand, which provides
AR experience and that around 55% of the consumers were more likely
to purchase from these brands too. Augmented reality offers consumers
with not only an exciting experience but also confidence in their
purchasing decisions, especially over the process of online shopping.
Today, the target market of the fashion industry comprises 90%
millennial individuals. Unlike the previous generations who bought
clothes for either function or status portrayal, today’s audience also
purchase clothes as a way of presentation of their style, personality,
and aesthetics. Comparatively, people are more knowledgeable about
and equipped with technology. The ‘woke’ generation of today requires
businesses to use advanced online strategies to boost interaction and
brand awareness. Social media is another big part of the life of an
average person today. As more and more consumers expect a smooth
and seamless shopping experience, more brands are finally ready to
invest in AR. Augmented reality lets the brand take advantage of the
many benefits the social media has to offer and helps in the production
and promotion of innovative campaigns.
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BRANDS USING AR
One of the first fashion brands to bring in AR in
their online stores is GAP. They first introduced
augmented reality through an app called
DressingRoom. This app allows users to build an
avatar based on their size and body type. The
user can select the desired items of clothing and
the app will automatically try it on the virtual
body but also provide the user with the view
of the garment from all directions in 3D. This
way, the brand offers the services of the product
to its consumers in their own homes. While
staying in the comfort of their houses, users get
to experience the in-store experience over the
online platform. Wanna Kicks is another example
of an AR app. This enables the customers to try
on the 3D models of various sneaker designs
available. The customer only needs to select the
pair of shoes and direct their mobile camera to
their feet through the app.
Topshop and Zara also invested in AR. They
have inaugurated AR screens in their stores to
enhance brand awareness and marketability
further. The customers shopping in the store can
try on the garments available virtually by just
standing in front of the camera or the AR screen.
The screen allows the user to change the virtual
garments either by the use of special electronic
markers or just by hand gestures. The customers
get a complete (i.e. front and back) view of how
the garment will look on them: all of this without
having to physically try the dress on!
Other fashion brands using AR include Sephora,
Converse, Marks & Spencer, Burberry, and Gucci.
VIRTUAL SHOPPING WITH AR DURING
COVID-19
AR caters greatly to the fast-moving and onthe-go
audience which demands quick solutions
to their problems. It has especially become a
necessity during this current pandemic. For the
buyers willing to purchase fashion goods at this
time, the AR services have become essential to
them. People want to be able to try the item
without physically having to go to the store.
COVID-19 precautions and the lockdowns have
added limitations to the retail process and the
fashion industry is adapting to meet demands.
The industry has shifted largely to e-commerce.
Customers need certainty and assurance in their
purchase decisions.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ayesha AR is a fashion design student, working to fulfil
her drive for being a part of the creative industry. What
began as a hobby turned into a passion as she grew
up. Preparing for medical studies her whole life, this
brown girl didn’t want to become another involuntary
doctor, and so she dropped her passed medical
entrance examination and pursued fashion design. She
showcased her skills as a designer in the form of her
up-cycled, sustainable 3-piece garment in FASTE 2019,
which won her awards. She continues to learn and work
hard to achieve her dreams.
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Oriental vibes
Model: Victoria Noori
Photo & Retouch Andrei
Makeup: Liv Rideg
Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary
BE
AU
TY
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Beauty
What’s in my
Beauty Stash?
Liv shares her list of
‘classic’ makeup and
skincare products that are
always in her beauty stash.
Skincare products and makeup need to be chosen carefully. Call it
‘beauty diligence’: each of us swears by ‘wonder products’ that just
give us the results we want—from face creams and serums to body
lotions and scrubs that maintain our natural and glowing look.
Want to take a peek in my beauty stash? These are the ‘classic’
makeup and skincare products that I always keep in my stash
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L’OREAL NIGHT CREAM
L’oreal Night Cream, which contains
hyaluronic acid, is one of the main ‘classic’
products I use. This is my all-time favourite
moisturiser and I really recommend it to
people aged 35 and above. This luxuriant
cream will make your skin softer and
firmer. L’oreal has a variety of creams that
you can choose from depending on your
skin condition or issues.
NEUTROGENA FACE SCRUB
Neutrogena face scrub with grapefruit
extract is a really gentle scrub that you can
use every morning to prepare your skin
for a busy day. It will prevent breakouts
and will help remove dead skin cells.
SHISEIDO WASO FACE CLEANER
Shiseido Waso face cleaner with rose
extract is a gentle face wash perfect for
morning and night use. Your skin will feel
refreshingly clean. Rose extract is known
for reducing redness and skin irritation.
MAX FIX +
Mac Fix + is my favourite product for
hydration and setting or refreshing
your makeup. It will effectively prolong
your makeup for 12 hours. It is also
dermatologist-tested and perfect for
acne-prone skin as this doesn’t have
any ingredients that will trigger acne
breakouts.
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BECCA LIQUID FOUNDATION
Becca liquid foundation will stay all day
long on your skin: it has a perfect matte
coverage that won’t move an inch. It
is also lightweight and will give you a
natural finish.
TOO FACED MATTE BRONZER
Too Faced matte bronzer is great for
contouring because of its cool tones. It
is buildable and has a natural finish that
blends easily.
THE DIOR BACKSTAGE
HIGHLIGHTER
When it comes to highlighters, I have
loads that I like, but my favourite one is
The Dior Backstage highlighter. Dior’s
formula is amazingly pigmented and
lightweight that will give you a natural
glow.
DOLCE GABBANA LIPSTICKS
Lipstick is important in a woman’s bag.
My favourites are from Dolce Gabbana—
they are super creamy and super long
lasting. There are many shades to choose
from: vibrant reds, perfect nudes and
even soft and delicate pinks.
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DIORSHOW MASCARA
Diorshow mascara will give you beautiful
and full volume lashes. TThis will provide
you with a lash extension effect and is
definitely buildable.
FLASH BY JIMMY CHOO
Perfumes are women’s most effective
weapon, and we like to have quite a few
of them. My favourite is Flash by Jimmy
Choo. It has subtle white flower notes
with hints of fruits and spice.
VICTORIA’S SECRET BODY
LOTIONS AND BODY SPRAYS
Body lotions and body sprays from
Victoria’s Secret are mainstays in my stash.
What I really like about them is the texture
and the delectable, alluring fragrances.
You can apply them in the morning, and
you will still smell the heavenly scents on
your skin until midnight.
Liv Rideg is an award-winning professional makeup
artist and hairstylist with 21 years of experience in the
beauty industry. She is currently based in Europe but
has worked across the globe, including a spell in Dubai.
Liv specialises in bridal, beauty, glamour, creative and
fantasy makeup. She has also been teaching makeup
techniques and different styles since 2010.
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BE
AU
TY
Powerful Woman
Model: Victoria Noori
Hair and makeup: Kinga Domokos and Liv
Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary
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Standards
of Beauty
Around the World
Different cultures have
their own definition of
beauty. Many cultures
have become obsessed
with their measure of what
is physically attractive
and the lengths it takes
to achieve it. Sometimes,
these standards of beauty
are influenced by popular
culture. Other cultures are
influenced by traditional
or ancient beliefs or
norms.
KOREA
The lighter, the better? Koreans have an obsession with lighter skin. Known
for having the highest percentage of plastic surgeries in the world, Koreans
have turned to skin whitening products and procedures to achieve their
ideal porcelain skin colour. Whitening treatments like glutathione injections
are popular in Korea. Glutathione injections lighten the skin by impeding
the process of pigmentation. That’s not the only standard of beauty that
keeps Koreans going back to the clinic for more. Koreans also obsess about
having slim figures, small faces, v-shaped jaws, small lips, straight eyebrows,
flawless skin, and larger eyes. Some would argue that this unhealthy
obsession with beauty in the country is fueled by Korean TV and celebrities.
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MAURITANIA
The bigger, the better! Mauritanian girls are encouraged
from a young age to gain weight to fulfil their culture’s
standards of beauty. Mauritanians practise the age-old
tradition of leblouh or gavage which originated centuries
ago. Gavage means to fatten up. It is the practice of
forcing young girls to eat a diet high in fat. The process
begins at five years old when Mauritanian girls are sent
to fat camps in the desert to eat almost 16,000 calories
a day. During their time at fat camps, these young girls
drink camel’s milk and restrict their physical activity. The
effects of this lifestyle can be extremely unhealthy. Heart
failure, kidney failure, diabetes, women’s reproductive
problems, and joint pain are just some of the health
problems that come with this form of obesity.
NEW ZEALAND
In New Zealand, chin tattoos are considered a physical
manifestation of a Maori woman’s true identity. A Tamoko,
or a chin tattoo, is traditionally created with a
chisel. Each moko contains ancestral tribal messages
specific to the wearer. These messages tell the story
of the women’s family and tribal affiliations as well as
their place in these social structures. A moko’s message
also conveys the wearer’s genealogy, knowledge, and
social standing. Although this art form declined during
the 20th century, it is now making a return. More Maori
women are embracing the tradition as an expression of
their rich culture.
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ETHIOPIA AND SUDAN
The Karo tribe from Ethiopia and South Sudan’s nomadic Dinka people practise
‘scarification’. To achieve scarification, the tribes use a knife to create patterns and
symbolic marks on their body. The Dinka mark the faces of teenage boys and girls
in the tribe as a rite of passage. Girls are marked with symbolic patterns, while the
boys are marked with three parallel lines that represent their entry into manhood.
Although the procedure can be painful, Dinka teens are not allowed to cry or flinch
during their scarification. Doing so would bring shame to their whole family.
KENYA
Stretched earlobes are a popular beauty
trend amongst the Masai women in
Kenya. The elongated earlobes are
created by using heavy objects such as
tusks, stones, and wood to expand their
earhole and gradually increase the size.
To be considered the most beautiful,
Masai women must rock a bald head
and elongated ears with colourful
earrings, necklaces, and shoes with
intricate designs. As the ears stretch, a
Masai woman’s beauty is heightened by
how large and elongated her earlobes
have become.
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MYANMAR
Earlobes aren’t the only body
part being stretched around
the world. The Kayan women in
the mountaintops of Myanmar
are known to practise the art of
stretching their neck with rings. In
the pursuit of beauty, girls as young
as eight years old will start with five
rings, and gradually increase the
numbers as they grow older. Looks
can be deceiving; the neck ring only
creates an illusion; their necks aren’t
as long as the rings. However, as
more coils are added, the shoulders
are pushed down, and the neck
is lengthened. This tradition was
originally used to attract men of
the tribe, but in recent years it has
drawn tourism.
IRAN
In Iran, a nose job is a status symbol. The more petite the nose is, the
better! Oftentimes, women will keep the bandages on their noses even
after they’ve gotten the surgery (or even after their noses have healed)
to show others that they come from an affluent family. The Iranian
nose job isn’t limited to the wealthy. Sales associates, office workers,
university students, and even teenagers will spend their savings or go
into debt to have this procedure. Some people question why the nose
job is held to such a high standard in an Islamic country where women
are wearing hijab. It has become an obsession for Iranian women to
have classic European features, even if it means going into debt and
using their savings.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MONIQUE L. SPEARMAN is a freelance multi-faceted writer, curator and creator.
Blending a passion for content creating, social media marketing, photography
and travel, Monique created her blog website RaineyAmore.com in the spring
of 2017 as a hobby. Raineyamore.com is a lifestyle, fashion, beauty and travel
brand that encourages men and women from around the world to live their best
lives, out-loud. Inspired by the aesthetics of different cultures, Monique wants
to show the world, "Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it!"
22

Chosen
Alopecia Awareness Month
“Some people are bald
by choice, others are
bald by circumstance.
I was CHOSEN”
Kimberly Carey
Model:
KIMBERLY CAREY
Makeup:
HEAVENLY REFLECTION
MAKEUP
Photo:
HEAVENLY REFLECTION
MAKEUP STUDIOS
23

The power of
femininity
Model: Lili Lilla Nagy
Photo: Jozsef Balogh
Retouch Anna Petrova
Hair and makeup: Liv Rideg
Location: Studio Madison, Budapest, Hungary
24

Ahmed
Hawas
Creating Opportunities, Launching Visions:
Lessons from Hawas Group’s Founder
COMPANY: HAWAS GROUP
@hawasgroup
www.hawasgroup.ae
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1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.
I have always been inspired by the vision of our leaders
who converted this country from a desert to a successful,
lucrative global hub that most people around the world can
visit and do business in—be it an individual or a massive
group of companies. Being a finance professional for over a
decade, I’ve been guiding large corporations in expanding
their operations to further enhance business potentials.
This passion carried strong motivation to start The Hawas
Group in 2014 that holds unique business modules of five
subsidiaries ranging from niche consumable products to
high-end technology solutions with The Oven Market (TOM)
being an exciting new addition to the portfolio.
2. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN BUSINESS?
I’ve always been on the run for new initiatives and business
ideas, varying from events, technologies, products and
services; and have chosen the UAE as the metropolis home
to our headquarters, given the diversified citizenships and
business-driven economy.
My experience in the region’s financial sector has granted me
the market knowledge to develop new business ideas and
lines. I’ve always sought to be recognisable for introducing
new initiatives and expanding UAE-born businesses
internationally.
3. TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST BUSINESS
VENTURE, THE OVEN MARKET (TOM), AND WHAT
PROBLEM IT SOLVES.
The idea has always been on the table, but I saw its
development and launch during the unfortunate period the
world has been going through—from job losses and salary
cuts, to the crumbling economy. The current affairs led me to
kickstart The Oven Market, a chef-at-home booking platform,
that solves the main issues chefs-at-home face: delivery,
marketing and supplies. Solving and managing those three
obstacles are at the core of TOM’s business structure.
4. HOW DO YOU DETERMINE IF A BUSINESS IDEA
IS GOING TO BE SUCCESSFUL?
It’s hard to tell if a business idea is going to be successful
before launching a brand into the market and testing the
operations and services with the customers, as we rely on
customer feedback in most of our business expansion and
amelioration strategies. Nonetheless, ensuring that the
business plan is based on exclusivity and that a potential
market gap is being addressed or catered to is certainly the
key foundation to a business idea’s feasibility.
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5. WHAT ARE YOUR SUCCESS HABITS?
These are my success habits: Prioritisation,
Determination, Confidence, Persistence and
Excellence.
6. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?
The recognition that I receive motivates me, and
success, of course. Ensuring that the products and
services provided by The Hawas Group are adding
value to the community stirs us as well. I aim for this
brand to breakthrough and achieve a recognisable
status.
7. DO YOU BELIEVE THERE IS SOME SORT
OF PATTERN OR FORMULA TO BECOMING
A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR?
There is no one formula for becoming a successful
entrepreneur. To me, celebrating failure is part of the
journey, and breaking through isn’t hard if you know
how to put yourself back on the right path.
8. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE YOUR
RESPONSIBILITIES AS A BUSINESS OWNER?
It’s really simple. A business owner has to find a
balance between leadership and being a team player.
The key is to give your employees the stability they’re
eager for, whether financially or mentally, and keep a
tight grip over the business ideology and standards,
so nothing is compromised in the process.
9. TELL US ABOUT A TIME YOU HAD TO
DEAL WITH FAILURE AND HOW YOU DEALT
WITH IT.
I’m not very fond of the word ‘failure’, even though
in business there is no other proper alternative for it.
But in life, failure is better called a ‘lesson’. You always
learn from failing, and I’ve done my part of learning
when I opened my entertainment company that
exhausted my time and energy in vain.
10. IF YOU COULD START ALL OVER AGAIN,
WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?
I would definitely explore other business sectors and
try business ideas I was eager to venture into.
11. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE
TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT ON THEIR
ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY?
I’ve said it previously. Celebrate failure. Fail more.
Learn more. Don’t be scared of standing back up.
You’ll get places.
12. IF YOU WERE TO WRITE A BOOK ABOUT
YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD YOU NAME IT?
The Walk Uphill.
13. HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR
MENTAL HEALTH?
This is a part that’s always under development.
Viewing all aspects with pure logic helps me eliminate
distractions and set accurate priorities.
14. WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY?
“Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it.” —
George Bernard Shaw
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Boutique No.8, Aswaaq Center,
Al Badaa, Al Wasl Road,
Dubai.
Boutique 13, Building 8,
Golden Mile Galleria,
Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.
www.mokha1450.com
35

Preston
McIntyre
COMPANY: HOLDING SPACE AD LIMITED
Preston McIntyre
www.hsadlimited.com
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TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.
I’m originally from North Carolina but have lived
in Abu Dhabi for over 13 years. The biggest thing
that I would say about me is that I’m always looking
for the next adventure and I’m always trying to
improve.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN
BUSINESS?
My journey stemmed from my childhood
experience working in a tobacco field. I realised
that I am the one doing the labour, and someone
else was making a lot of profit off of me. This
realisation triggered my curiosity, and eventually,
my choices in life. After having gone through the
military and a few other endeavours, I realised that
I have a knack for solving problems which is very
useful in business.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR YOURSELF
AS A BRAND?
My vision is to witness the growth of the brand, as
well as the growth of the team around me. My main
focus is investing in the people around me and
getting them to understand and see their intrinsic
value—to create plans and visions for themselves.
This is important to me, especially because the
people who come to this region to work usually
don’t have this kind of opportunity back home.
I want to be a personal platform that enables
people to rise and expand. I think my employees
are able to grow when they see that I remove titles,
which is the most important thing; when I’m firm
but extremely fair; I treat everyone like the adult
that they are. When I do that, I see a lot of people
respond to me in a respectful way. They do the
right thing even when no one is looking.
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WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE?
To me, success is temporary. It looks like setting a
target, reaching that target, and then planning for
the next phase. I think success is also an ongoing
initiative—it’s not about reaching something, like a
final pinnacle. There’s always a next level.
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?
I am passionate about sustainability and longevity.
I’m passionate about unity and all the related
buzzwords people use these days. These things
have always been embedded into me, coming
from my upbringing and from my mother. From the
circumstances of my upbringing, I learned that when
you don’t have something, you learn to ration it.
When we have too much of something, we usually
take it for granted. Being able to find that balance
is extremely important to me. When you get older,
passions change, but it’s important to me that the
principles that I value stay as they are: they are the
foundations of my passions.
HOW DO YOU DETERMINE IF A BUSINESS
IDEA IS GOING TO BE SUCCESSFUL?
Generally, I evaluate two things initially: the
founder(s) and the team as well as the productmarket
fit. There’s an in-depth formula our team
uses once we get past the initial pitch, but we can
tell within a matter of minutes if the business has
merit. For one, I think Out and About Magazine is
great—it’s a platform that gives a voice in a unique
way to people who want their voices to be heard
but sometimes can’t because they don’t have a
blue check beside their name. So there’s a massive
differentiation between what exists and what you’re
doing, and that’s a great opportunity to be disruptive
with traction.
Do you believe that successful entrepreneurs have
particular traits? If yes, what are they?
Absolutely: successful entrepreneurs are determined
and resilient—which are probably the biggest
traits—and they have a vision. They don’t accept the
word ‘no’—it’s not in their vocabulary.
I look up to Jay-Z because we have a very similar
story in terms of our upbringing. Having someone
that looks like me is a big thing, and more
importantly, seeing someone progress and thrive is
inspiring to me. He is someone I’ve modelled myself
after. I admire his personality too—he maintained
his uniqueness by being authentic and true to his
principles and beliefs, even if they were not popular
opinions at the time.
TELL US ABOUT A TIME YOU HAD TO DEAL
WITH FAILURE AND HOW YOU DEALT WITH
IT.
My biggest failure happened to me in my childhood
when I was playing sports. I was cut from my baseball
team, which made me never want to even try out for
baseball again. It was a painful experience because
I later learned that I was good at baseball; it was
just that my coach did not like me for some reasons.
I gave up a passion, gave up at something that I
really loved at an early age because I let one person
discourage me. In business, this translates into
‘taking no for an answer’ or saying you are not good
enough just because of temporary circumstances.
When I started my first business—a sports investment
business—here in Abu Dhabi, I did not understand
the criteria required to succeed, so I quit too early.
I ended up having to move my family to an awfully
bad area where electricity went out every Friday,
and there wasn’t any air conditioning—all during the
time when my son was just born. Seeing my family
struggle made me want to do more, and I allow the
pain of those memories to fuel my drive and passion.
IF YOU COULD START ALL OVER AGAIN,
WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?
Patience and preparation. I would prepare a lot
better in terms of doing diligence on projects and
markets, as well as doing diligence on people I want
to partner with—because that was my downfall. I
let one person slip into the circle, which ended up
doing some bad things.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO
SOMEONE STARTING OUT ON THEIR
ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY?
I’d advise them to have a hard talk with themselves,
do as much research as possible to see if they have
an idea that’s worth pursuing and to see if they’re
up to the challenge. Entrepreneurship is not an easy
path whatsoever. It’s not for the select few—it’s for
the chosen. The world needs everyone—it needs
people who work, who are in academia like research
and development as well as leaders who are willing
to lose it all by not playing it safe. It needs a whole
ecosystem. Do your research to be as prepared as
possible and leverage your skills by highlighting
your attributes.
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WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE
YOU’VE RECEIVED?
At one point in time when I was in the military,
I had a captain who unfortunately died in
a helicopter accident. When we were in
Iraq, every day he would come by and say,
“Mac, just process it as information, man.”
I was going through some personal trouble
at the time. The advice meant not to take
it personally. It took me ten years to realise
what he was talking about, but once I did,
that was it. Now, I treat every circumstance
that happens to me as information to help me
become a better person.
WHAT KIND OF BUSINESSES DO YOU
THINK PEOPLE SHOULD BE GETTING
INTO?
There are obvious industries like e-commerce,
and anything to do with online businesses,
but I think people should look into concepts
that are five to ten years out. What we
are talking about are ideas or concepts
that complement space or low-earth orbit
technology that can be commercialised. That
is the immediate future, and the industry is
still not overcrowded--just yet.
If you have something that you’re trying to
put out, you should remember that people
are not spending as much as they used to
before. Consumer behaviour has changed;
people are not spending as recklessly as they
were before, so looking into Fintech would
be great. Also, I think there’s a future with
technologies that aid, support or promote
mental or psychological health.
As you see, I’m into modern technologies
because this is where we are. Anything with
a holistic type of influence is what you should
be getting into.
HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR
MENTAL HEALTH?
I breathe; I’m very conscious of whenever
I start to get out of rhythm, out of energy.
Normally, I create rituals, which is a sign of
what successful people do. The first thing that
I do in the morning is to consume water—it
does not matter if it’s a sip or a full glass. I
drink water because it reminds me to stay
fluid throughout the day. There’s a symbolism
to this habit, which also has health benefits.
Staying hydrated is one of the most important
things for me.
I spoke at a United Nations event last year
regarding mental health and suicide. I’ve
had family and friends that I lost to mental
health issues—we all do—and I think it’s an
unfortunate thing we should all be aware of.
I was diagnosed as manic depressive almost
fifteen years ago, and I still think I suffer from it
a bit. I don’t take medication, so I always have
to stay on top of it. I also try not to put myself
in positions that make me extremely uneasy.
I recently heard a podcast hosted by Mike
Tyson. They were discussing a medication that
you can inject in your parasympathetic nervous
system. It blocks the inhibitors that create and
cause these traumatic experiences. That’s why
I think technology is very important. Science
and technology can help many people that
are struggling with mental health problems.
WHAT IS THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE
BY?
Innovate or die—that’s it. You innovate or
die, period. If you don’t innovate yourself
as a human being—as a mother, a father, a
sibling—if you are not contributing your time
to get better—all you’re going to do is hold
others down. In business, it’s the same thing.
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46

OMAR
AL BUSAIDY
COMPANY:
MICE INTERNATIONAL
Omar Al Busaidy
omaralbusaidy
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TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.
I am Omar Busaidy, and I’m 34 years old. I’m
currently doing my Master’s in International
Affairs and Intelligence at Florida State
University. I’m here because I got the
Fulbright scholarship.
My story really starts right around high
school. In the summer, I would work at
a bank. My mom did not want to see me
sitting around and playing video games or
going out and playing with my friends. She
said that I had to grow up to be a man by
learning how to earn an income. She forced
me to get a job. The reason was that she
always thought it was hard even for Emiratis
to get a job in the UAE, which is absolutely
true. When I graduated from high school,
I joined the American University in Dubai.
Everyone there was very wealthy. So, to
hang out with my friends, I needed to get
a job again. I had to go to work from 8 in
the morning to 4, and then I used to go to
school from 5 to 10. I did this for the next
six and a half years.
By the time I graduated, I was like 22. I had
my degree; I had six years of experience,
so I stood out like a thorn. My mom was
right, and I’m really grateful to her for that.
My uncle always told me to never depend
on one source of income. I did not do what
kids my age would do. I didn’t go to parties
and stuff; I do those things now, which is a
good thing because now I do it in a more
responsible way.
My uncle convinced me to start a business.
I started my first business which shut down
in six months. I had three other businesses
that were also shut down. When my last
business shut down, things were rough. My
business partner ran away with the money,
I got divorced, and nothing really worked
out. I was unemployed for the next eight
months. I was depressed for the first two
months, but after that, I started writing.
Next thing you know, it turned into a book.
The book then skyrocketed.
YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS A
“FUTURIST”, WHAT DOES THAT
MEAN?
If you remember, there was big PR by the
government for entrepreneurship. There
was a large PR about the future. After the
last crash, it was like the renaissance of the
gig economy. You had a lot of companies
popping up.
People started asking, what is the future of
work? If you had a house, you could rent a
room. People started realising that they did
not have to go to work. You can make money
from so many different sources. Throw away
the fact that you must go to the office from
9 to 5. The thing is, I despise going to work.
I did it for so long. There was a time I was
a radio host. I was doing a tech show and
I was getting paid good money for talking
exactly 20 minutes. I was in heaven. I was
like, this is the future of work.
Now I’m writing my second book, Why Jobs
are for Robots and Life is for People.
WHAT IS YOUR SECRET SAUCE?
My faith. I am not religious, but I love God.
Throughout my entire journey, God has
always been with me. He is with everybody.
For me, He is the only guild.
All the content of my books is about selfhelp,
and it’s the stuff I read in the Holy
Quran. I learn a lot about faith from people
who converted to Islam. Mohammad Ali, for
example; when I watch his video where he
talks to his audience about Islam, I would
be amazed by his words.
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WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TWO STRATEGIES FOR
DEALING WITH DIFFICULT SITUATIONS?
First thing I do is smile. When you smile, your body makes
the difficult situation less difficult. My mom always told me
whenever I was facing difficulties that God never closes one
door without opening another one. When I’m in a difficult
situation, I always think to myself, “Where are those other
doors?” Sometimes, you may need to take a step back and
take a deep breath. Then ask yourself what, when, where,
how and then you tackle the issue.
There is no problem that’s unsolvable. If people can go up
to space, then you can solve any problem down here. You
may have a feeling of urgency when you’re faced with a
problem, but you need to remember to take a step back.
God will show you the doors that are open.
TELL US ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND “JUST
READ IT”.
The book is a self-help book. It was a message for my young
self. Had I known the things I just read, I probably would not
have made the mistakes that I did. Although I got a lot of
advice, I never received the information I needed for social
and emotional growth. You have to give someone those
human skills. All those things that I wrote in the book, I wish
someone had told me that. My mom and uncle never told
me how to behave in the workplace. Almost everything you
read in the book is already something you know. You either
learned at home or school or from life. I just Omar-ised it.
When I was unemployed, one thing that I did was volunteer
a lot to lecture at schools and universities. On one occasion,
I spoke at Zayed University, I saw that none of the students
were taking notes. I asked, and they said that they like
listening to me speak, but they don’t like taking notes. They
suggested that I write a book, and then I was like, “Alright,
I’ll write a book.” I had given my unpublished book to my
colleague. She came the next day and told me that I had to
publish this book, but I ignored it. On my birthday, she had
five printed versions of the book. I could not stop crying.
I didn’t know what to call the book because anyone could
read it. I just wanted people to just read it. She said, call it
exactly that, Just Read it.
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WHAT ARE THE YOUNGER GENERATIONS OF EMIRATIS
DOING DIFFERENTLY, AND WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL BE
THE IMPACT?
I think they would improve the image of Emiratis who are considered
spoiled. A lot of people are now into business and making entrepreneurial
moves. They now know it’s not going to be easy. Even Sheikh Mohammad
Bin Zayed said, “Don’t be surprised when you see Emirati taxi drivers.”
There is no job beneath anyone, regardless of your nationality. I love it
when leaders put out messages like this.
Now people are actually working in their family businesses, and before
they’d hire someone else to do it. This makes them more competitive,
not only here but around the world. I actually know a lot of Emiratis who
are working in the U.S. This helps them become better ambassadors for
the UAE.
AS HUMANS, WE ARE SAID TO BE “CREATURES OF HABIT”.
HOW DO WE USE THIS TO OUR ADVANTAGE, ESPECIALLY
IN BUSINESS AND/OR CAREER DEVELOPMENT?
There is one quote that always keeps me in check. “Motivation is what
gets you started; habit is what keeps you moving.” I always try to find
these different ounces of motivation in different things, and then I
develop the habit for it. I try to find these habits which will improve my
physical and mental wellness. This is how I look at every day of my life.
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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO JUMP
INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP?
This is where I tell them, you must read my book. The three rules of business are research,
research, research and if all fails, just do it. There’s only so much research you can do, and
there’s only so much advice you can get. At the end of the day, the most powerful thing in
the world is your gut feeling. Your gut is God’s voice. If your gut feeling is telling you to do
it, that means it’s going to work. For me, it has always worked. I never do anything unless
my gut tells me to go for it. Sometimes, it may not be clear, but that’s part of the process.
WHO INSPIRES YOU WITH AWE, AND WHY?
Mohammad Ali. He can not only talk the talk, he can also walk the talk, which is something
not everyone can do.
HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH?
When I was 21 years old, I had tuberculosis which left me bedridden for six months. You
can imagine how mentally it was driving me nuts. I was half-paralysed from the waist
down. I kept my sanity because of my circle of friends. The circle of people around you
are crucial. The laughter that you have with them keeps you happy. Try to spend time with
people who have great energy.
My second advice is to have faith. Either in God or a source of energy or a power that will
really take you away from the hardships.
54

TALENT POOL
Nadia
Parekh
Company: Melange www.melangeme.com melangedubai
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TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF.
I am a Dubai-baby who is also an avid foodie. Being born
and brought up in Dubai, I have seen this city transform.
I have grown in this beautiful, multi-cultural space with
exotic tastes and traditions.
I am a sucker for good coffee and an absolute animallover.
I love reading and falling in love with sunsets. And
of course, my passion and hobby both lie in the kitchen.
I love travelling to different places around the globe and
exploring different cuisines and cultures through food.
HOW DID YOU DEVELOP AN INTEREST IN FOOD?
Honestly, I’m not so sure because my mom doesn’t enjoy
cooking at all, and neither does my dad. In my house,
cooking was always a chore done plainly out of need and
not passion or love. On the other hand, baking has always
been a really big passion of mine. Even when I was young,
I would love being in the kitchen. My love for food is very
evident. While travelling, the foremost thing I delve into
is the variety of food of a particular country. I believe that
a country’s cuisine can tell a lot about its culture. As with
baking, I always took my skills at it as a mere hobby and
never thought about this passion of mine as a long-term
career option. That was, of course, until after I decided on
joining a culinary school after completing my postgraduate
degree in Clinical Psychology.
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TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHANGE
OF CAREER FROM CLINICAL
PSYCHOLOGY TO CULINARY.
It was never the ‘intent’ to join the food
industry. After graduating from Dubai, I left
to pursue my undergrad in Canada. I studied
Clinical Psychology at McGill University
for 4 years. I did enjoy studying Clinical
Psychology and was always studious.
However, coming from a Southeast Asian
culture (Pakistan), being a chef was not a
professional preference. We were pushed
to do something more academic as a
career rather than something creative, and
automatically, I thought of baking as only a
hobby.
In my final year at McGill, I did a bit of
research and work experience. It was
during this time that I understood the real
difference between studying something
and practically working in that field. This
was one of the biggest lessons I learnt
as I realised that though I loved studying
Clinical Psychology, I didn’t enjoy working in
this field. I then decided to take a gap year
before my masters and go to the culinary
school to explore my passion a little further.
So, I enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu London
for a year and attained my grand diploma.
After that, there was no looking back.
During my time at the culinary school, I
realised that there was nothing I loved
more than being in the kitchen, and so I
took my ‘hobby’ more seriously this time. I
did a few temporary placements in different
kitchens in London. I managed to work at
the Restaurant Gordon Ramsay and even at
William Curley. But something was missing,
and I decided to do something about that.
This led to me moving back to Dubai and
working at Fairmont The Palm. It was after
this that I decided to start Mélange.
TELL US ABOUT THE MELANGE
BRAND AND HOW IT CAME ABOUT?
I knew I wanted to continue practising my
profession back home. Working at Fairmont
The Palm in Dubai immensely helped
develop my creative process as I was a part
of the pre-opening team. It was a great
learning curve. After two years of working in
that kitchen, I started my brand, Mélange.
Even while doing Mélange initially, I was
working placements in different places to
keep my creativity and innovation alive.
Now, Mélange is four years old, and the
reason I founded it was that along my
journey, I had started to feel like a machine
in the professional kitchen. I wasn’t able
to utilise my creativity to its true potential
and felt my passion dwindling. Starting my
brand was something I wanted to do. I first
came across the word ‘mélange’ back in
high school, studying French, and the word
just stuck with me. The name means ‘the
perfect blend’ or ‘a balanced blend’. And
my Mélange is just that!
Mélange started as an Instagram blog
offering table set-up and catering. I did
some branding, got some boxed made,
and set it all up. My training was in mini and
plated desserts, more so than cakes. At this
point, I was working from home. Since I was
limited in terms of space and manpower,
I decided to focus on the product that
made me the highest margin, and that
was cake. I made bespoke cakes as they
had an even higher margin. I also saw that
at that point, the cakes in the UAE were
all very mainstream. Everyone was using
fondant. There weren’t very modern and
abstract takes to the cakes. But that isn’t
my style, and I didn’t want that to define
my brand. Not many people understood
my style then, but I stuck to my guns and
used my training to bake creative cakes. My
stubbornness helped me stand my ground
and eventually, people not only began to
accept my style but also appreciate it.
I feel like it’s a matter of trying to position
yourself properly in the market and find that
crowd of people that also didn’t want the
typical fondant cake. Being so ‘gram-able’,
the cakes caught a lot of attention, and the
brand took off. It’s been such an evolution.
Today, Mélange has so many things; we
have a retail line, we make bespoke cakes,
we are a blog, and we used to cater too. So
to me, it is just one big ‘mélange’.
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WHAT IS YOUR RECIPE FOR SUCCESS?
I don’t know if there is necessarily a recipe or
formula for success, but I think that there are
certain key points that are very important.
However, I feel like there are certain principles
or truths that pave the way to success. Many
people have told me a lot of advice along
the way, and I feel that I want to get them out
because some things really stuck with me and
some things really helped me.
The first thing is that you can’t do everything on
your own. This is one lesson that really took me
some time to understand, but it is key to progress
because you’re only as good as your team. This
advice helped me—being a one-woman show
for the longest time—because you can only get
so far with doing things alone. It was the best
decision that I ever made when I decided to get
a partner on board for my company.
Moreover, it is also important to balance your
weaknesses and ask for help because, as I
said, you’re only as strong as your team. You
need a certain ‘yin-yang’ to cover all bases of
a business. You also need someone to focus on
the product, and another to focus on growth, as
well as aspects like attention to detail and the
‘bigger picture’.
And another thing that I think is really important
in attaining success as an entrepreneur is selfmotivation:
you have to find a way to motivate
yourself. In a team, the boss or the leader is the
one the employees or members constantly look
up to for motivation, but you see, no one ever
really motivates the boss. As an entrepreneur,
motivating yourself is important; passion, drive
and ambition need to be present at all times.
Your passion can’t ever dwindle because there
should be no one else to keep it alive for you.
This is an interesting thing that I’ve learned back
then. Once I got employees on board, I thought
that I have to motivate everyone, but I also have
to motivate myself. I realised that I can’t motivate
anyone else unless I, too, am motivated.
Innovation and product development is also
indispensable. I truly enjoy this aspect, as I am
excited about coming up with new recipes.
It’s always challenging as there are constraints
along the way, especially in the retail aspect, like
for one, the product must be easy to transport.
Then, there is also this issue about the size: the
cake must fit inside our current retail boxes.
We also have to think about shelf life—the
cake should not be too temperature-sensitive.
We have to account for all those factors while
ensuring that the cakes are incredibly delicious
and cheat-worthy. I like to think that to whip up
a good recipe, you have to be like a magician,
and this is something that I really enjoy doing.
Another aspect that comes to mind on paving
your way to success as an entrepreneur is
having an excellent knack for organisation and
management. This is extremely important,
especially in startup businesses. There is almost
no wiggle room or budget for errors in this aspect.
It’s pivotal to have eyes on all business aspects as
this factor almost always dictates the growth of
the business. Setting up systems and procedures
from scratch and implementing them efficiently
and effectively requires strong organisational and
problem-solving skills. A company leader must
be quick on his or her feet as well: able to decide
what’s best at the shortest time possible.
I also did struggle and learn about the importance
of quality control. This is a constant struggle on
my part—coming up with a procedure that can
be standardised and measured for consistency
in your product and making sure this procedure
is implemented every time any product leaves
the kitchen. I have to admit that this is something
that was really difficult to put in place and ensure
that it is implemented daily. I’m quite a stickler
for quality. For me, if there’s no consistency, then
there’s no success, especially in the Food and
Beverage Industry.
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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO
SOMEONE WHO WANTED A CHANGE
IN CAREER?
Hard work and passion will always pay off.
You have to persevere through the rough
days because hardships will always be there.
You have to look at roadblocks or struggles
in a positive light and take them as lessons
learned. Pursuing or building a good career
is a lot of work requiring a lot of patience.
Entrepreneurship, or starting a business as a
career, is not for everyone. I think that there are
certain qualities that you need to have before
you push on this field. There are people who
wouldn’t enjoy being an entrepreneur. I think
that you only should pursue entrepreneurship
if you are really passionate about your product
and you have a really solid business idea. You
have to have thick skin in weathering through
the ups and downs of running a business,
persevering through the hard days and never
letting the risks and failures de-motivate you or
bring you down.
SOME SAY FAILURE IS THE BEST
TEACHER. TO WHAT EXTENT DO
YOU AGREE/DISAGREE WITH THIS
STATEMENT?
I agree 100%. I think there’s a bit of a balance
as well. You obviously don’t want to make
mistakes that are enormous and hard to come
back from, but making mistakes is the only
way to become aware of what’s not working. I
definitely made a lot of mistakes along the way,
for sure. In a way, my stubbornness is great
when I truly want to work something out, but
it may not be great when learning from failure
because I’m constantly going after the same
thing.
It also takes me a while to realise that I have
to think about solving a problem from a
different perspective when my current way of
solving things is not working. For me, there
has to be a balance of risks and considerations
between trying harder and walking away to
try something different. In startups, especially
in endeavours where creation, exploration
and experimentation are important, you
will never do everything right the first time
around. Entrepreneurs are very used to making
mistakes. Every error or mistake found improves
your way of doing things, making it better or
right the next time around.
THE HOSPITALITY (F&B)
INDUSTRY HAS TAKEN
A HIT DUE TO COVID-19,
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU
GIVE TO SMALL BUSINESS
OWNERS IN THIS FIELD?
We all had to think fast and make
fast decisions. Like when COVID hit
the business, our entire B2B line of
revenue and all our bespoke cake
orders got cancelled, obviously
because there are no occasions
and cafes are closed; no one was
buying our products. Our only active
revenue channel at this time is our
eCommerce website, through our
B to C customers. And we’re like,
look, let’s think: what can we do? We
started to market and push our online
sales. On top of that, we decided to
release these mini ‘quarantine cakes’
and put those online because there
are no occasions, but do you really
need an occasion to eat cake? So we
try to position the ‘quarantine cake’ in
a way that customers realise that they
don’t need an occasion to order a cake,
and perhaps, that quarantine is a sort
of occasion itself. We created modernlooking
concrete cakes with gold splatter,
and we had humorous or funny things
written on top, like ‘Happy Quarantine
Birthday’, or ‘Habibi, wash your hands’, or,
‘Don’t touch your face’.
During this time, we did think on our
feet, and it really sustained us through.
So my advice to other business owners in
the field is to try to focus on direct B to C
deliveries and online shopping, as opposed
to sustaining yourself through expecting
people to come to your shop. This pandemic
may show business owners the true test
of how innovative they are in terms of how
they can sell their products. And one thing is
never to lose all hope. Recently, many people
are trying their very best to support local.
People are really starting to see that there are
many local people here with so much talent,
ambition and great ideas. With such support,
don’t lose hope that your business will survive.
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WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF
MELANGE?
You could say that I made my hobby into my
career, so practically speaking, I lost my hobby.
This also means that on my time off, I’m like—
well, what do I do now? My business has taken
over my life, to be honest! It’s hard. Sometimes,
it’s even hard to get days off when you have your
own business. But outside of the business, I do
love exploring the food scene, and I really enjoy
going to coffee shops and just reading a book to
enjoy the coffee. I love the whole speciality coffee
scene which has exploded recently in Dubai—
having a nice cup of coffee while reading really
calms me. When I explore the food scene, I meet
up with other chefs in the industry and in the city
and just try new places.
I also enjoy travelling, and miss it, because
obviously travelling right now is tricky. I always
try to fit travel into my life, even if it’s just short
trips here and there. I always make sure that I
take these trips because I feel like the creative
process also needs a break and needs inspiration.
I also enjoy photography, including styling and
composition. Recently, I’ve been looking to do
more of this as well.
HOW DO YOU LOOK AFTER YOUR
MENTAL HEALTH?
I zone out and turn my phone off, and just take a
break. I think that really helps me. Many people
say that social media can really affect your mental
health, and I think it’s very true.
However, I can’t ever fully disconnect from social
media because my entire business is on it; we are
a purely social media-made business. If I were
to totally disconnect from social media, it would
mean disconnecting from sales and customers.
So, unfortunately, breaking free from social media
is not an option for me.
WHAT’S THAT ONE DESSERT THAT
EVERYONE SHOULD LEARN TO MAKE
AND WHY?
Wow—that’s a tough one. But I think everyone
should know how to make a basic cake. And it’s
really interesting that you should ask this question
because I recently started doing workshops.
Many people are saying that they should learn
how to make a celebration cake for occasions.
We don’t want to have to always order a cake
every time there’s some sort of occasion. Baking
a basic standard layered celebration cake comes
in handy for these special events.
WHAT’S THAT ONE QUOTE YOU LIVE BY?
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.”
— Albert Einstein
This quote reminds me to find the silver lining in
difficult situations.
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VOICES
GIFT LOVE
of
My 40th Birthday
…and giving myself permission to receive it gracefully
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I closed my eyes and saw my 3-year old self—a
happy, contented and spoiled child with two red
ribbons in the hair. I felt like I’m the only one to be
taken care of by the whole world. I’m in the centre
of the ultimate adoration and attention from my
Mom and my Dad. I lived in a sweet divine, and
beautiful world and everyone who enters this
world of mine is filled with a sparkling delight
radiated towards me. I innocently managed to
ignore the unfriendly people around me through
my confidence that I am protected by Mum, Dad
and God, and nothing—absolutely nothing—can
happen to me.
After 37 years, I found myself celebrating my 40th
year on this earth. I removed all worries that were
hustling and bustling in the world, and instead
shed positivity towards myself. Questions were
dashing through my mind: what has happened
to me for the past forty years of my life? What
did not happen and what is going to happen in
the next forty years ahead? What is my intimate
desire to live life fully wrapped up upon? What is
my next drive destination for the stretches ahead?
Am I not already the person of my aspirations?
All those questions are winding up into a magical
concoction in my mind—crafting a wishful version
of myself.
I closed my eyes again and saw myself in my first
thirty years that spanned studies, living in rented
houses, sharing roofs and hopes with other
classmates, exploring life in communal rooms of
university camps and craving food from glass jars
cooked by caring mothers when money is only
enough to pay the rent. These pictures are from
memories of long-awaited food stocks from my
home town with handwritten notes on it, long walks
to the train station, uni-campus or the student
home. Despite the gloom and doom during those
years, my best years, dreams and visions were
born from there and remained with me for years
ahead—some of it remaining until today. Sitting by
the light of the shimmering sunset, I am inspired
to write a few of my learnings in life that I gained,
along with some opportunities missed.
FIGHT YOUR ‘EGO BATTLES’ WITH
DIGNITY.
I fought battles with big titles, having to
compromise on what I felt was right with my gut
and follow the opinion of the crowd. I learned that
whatever I felt was right—intuitively—was always
justified with time. I learned to never compromise
on what I felt is just that resides deep within my
core. I have to voice it out. I learned not to belittle
myself, but instead amplify my existence.
LIVE THE CORPORATE CULTURE AND
LEAVE IT BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE.
Our Mum and Dad taught us to go study, get a
degree, and earn a decent job with pride. Corporate
life is a really great place to start. Working in a
formal setting within the confines of an office will
enable one to learn more about professionalism
and taking pride in being a productive team
player. That’s not at all bad; however, just for the
few ten or so years, in my opinion.
I challenge everyone to dare to be different and
question their own values and mission in life. By
staying agile in a corporate structure, I experienced
managing to stay attuned in conformity with my
own set of rules and work toward my vision. What
keeps me on a good track is asking myself this
question from time to time: am I aligning the
corporate dreams to mine and finding a common
surface? It is fine to leave as soon as you feel that
there is no longer synergy between you and the
company.
TALK TO YOUR SOUL DAILY.
I have recently established a connection with my
soul. As unreal as it may sound, I have bridged the
deep layers of my subconscious with my conscious
mind after having numerous sessions with energy
workers and healers. This is when I learned that
all the answers to our questions are ultimately
embedded into our beings. You can find your
unique and purposeful existential path inside your
very own mind. Find a quiet time to intimately
hold your hands and whisper loving words to your
soul like, “I want to make the best for you on this
journey, so please guide us towards physical and
spiritual happiness and fulfilment.”
DON’T SETTLE UNTIL YOU FIND YOUR
MISSION.
I am lucky to have found my mission. I know that I
am meant to spend my life helping people around
the world develop their human potentials and excel
in their life by hosting a bunch of holistic wellness
retreats on a sunny, summer island between the
mountain and the sea. Today, I would say a man
needs his mission as a pilot needs his route to the
final destination. Without it, it’s a life lived without
a goal similar to a bird that tries to find the south
to escape the winter spirits, but instead gets lost,
defeated by the cold winds before it has even
flown a distance.
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HAVE PATIENCE: DIAMONDS ARE
BORN OVER BILLIONS OF YEARS.
A diamond is formed under immense
temperature and pressure over billions of
years; life, similarly, becomes more valuable
with years. Patience and endurance must
persist when pursuing a goal. I failed to
achieve many of my own goals, but my
shortcomings showed me a way to another
secret treasure, or often taught me another
hidden quality I had in me while laying down,
defeated and broken. I was born extremely
impatient, and having such loving and caring
parents contributed to the privilege to have
everything that I wanted here and now. Later
in life, I had to learn that not everything
comes on a silver platter, and it is patience
that actually brings you the fruits of your
prayers.
DAYDREAM YOUR DESIRES BUT
LEARN TO LET GO.
I was and still am a student practising vivid
visualisation, manifestation and setting a
positive mindset. I do this as my ritual. I was
mistaken with the thought that if I imagined
something for a hundred-day period, I would
definitely achieve it. If that didn’t happen, I was
soundly disappointed for perhaps a hundred
more days and rejected in anger all similar ideas.
The truth is you only get your desires when you
learn to let go and live with what the divine spirit
gives you. By learning to trust your path, you
allow the universe to open the spiritual way for
you while you sit and work over your desires on
both physical and mental levels. Don’t mistake
yourself for God; trust in the higher spirits and
let them see a hundred miles ahead of you from
here where you don’t have a clear vision for.
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REFLECT ON WHAT REALLY MATTERS AT ANY AGE.
I was standing with a shaking body in front of my grandfather’s grave. It was
a sunny but chilled midday in November. My mom and grandmother were
beside me whining. Perhaps they were weeping and singing at the same
time, as it all sounded as an unreal melody while tears dropped from their
sad eyes. I wanted to move but I suddenly found myself frozen. I simply
stood there, reminded of life while the mountain breeze touches my face.
My head was bustling with questions: what are the things that really matter
in life? What is the most significant experience one must have while living?
What is something one should do before the body lies deep in the ground,
and your soul waves goodbye? What is the meaning of life?
None of the answers satisfied my quest for meaning, and I kept still standing
there. A deep, warm voice beside me got me awakened out of my trance,
“Daughter, let’s go.” My mother shook me by my hand and we strayed
away. A sudden thought hit me: revisiting the dead keeps man even more
alive by realising how short life is and what truly matters.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
VYARA TOSHEVA
Wellness, Spa and Retreats Business Consultant
In over 19 years, Vyara Tosheva has gained professional
experience in hospitality, leisure and wellbeing. Vyara
graduated in Tourism Management and holds a Master’s
Degree in Psychology and Sociology. She also holds a
Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, as well as internationallyaccredited
certification courses in Hospitality and Spa
Management. She travels the world to enhance her
expertise through further certifications in Ayurveda,
Wellness and Fitness Consultancy, Coaching and
Psychology.
She is a certified NLP and EFT master coach and Reiki
practitioner. She also led the opening of The Retreat
Palm Dubai, the first wellness retreat resort in the UAE
and GCC, as well as the Rayya Wellness and Poli-clinic
Centre. She created and managed the first holistic
retreats in a hotel environment where in-house and
visiting master practitioners, energy workers and doctors
combine their knowledge with fitness, spa and beauty
professionals to deliver transformational retreats.
As a consultant, she advises and consults hospitality
and spa executives on the creation of wellness projects
and their execution.
Vyara’s mission is to empower busy executives to create
or enhance their business models geared toward a
wellness lifestyle on both professional and personal
levels. Her vision, on the other hand, is to create
worldwide wellness and health retreat centres that
provide premium services for its employees, guests and
visitors.
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www.jacquieachie.com

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www.jacquieachie.com

LIFESTYLE
JUMPSTART
YOUR
CAREER:
Preparing for
Future Work
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• According to the World Economic Forum, 35% of
the skills that are essential today will change in five
years.
• A McKinsey quarterly report released in August
2020 states that we need to invest in learning and
development more than ever before as a result of
COVID-19.
• Many industries, which include hospitality and
aviation, will take years to recover post-pandemic.
• Around 32% of companies are replacing full-time
employees with freelance or remote workers to cut
costs, and this trend will likely grow.
• A recent Gartner survey showed that 48% of
employees will likely be working from home and
we have already seen a few companies announcing
their work from home policy for the long term.
Looking at this information, as well as observing the
accelerated rate at which the world of work is changing
as a result of this global pandemic, we need to be
more proactive than ever before when it comes to our
careers and businesses. Many companies have a hard
time keeping up with changing technologies, and thus
they go bankrupt and shut down altogether, and we
have seen this happen again these days. Those who
didn’t adapt quickly were left in Q1 of 2020. This is due
to various factors, of course, but a big part of it is due
to lack of digital adaptation, lack to ability of creating
strong teams to move things forward when markets get
challenging, and changes in economies. On the other
hand, there are also individuals who are simply becoming
irrelevant in their jobs because they did not manage to
upgrade their skills and keep up with the growth of their
roles, among other factors.
As we get older, we tend to be set in our ways and
refuse to accept that there are many things that we don’t
know. To be relevant and continue adding value, the
older generation should keep up with the technological
advances to continue in our roles in the corporate sector
or business fields.
When it comes to your career growth, you need to take
responsibility for your own development, even if your
company is not investing in you. Formal learning is no
longer enough: you need to learn every day and look for
opportunities to learn from others. Leaving your personal
and professional development to an external party is a sure
way to be left behind in the world of work. Your career and
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life are 100% your responsibility. Your current situation is a
result of the choices you made. To ensure you are making
mindful choices and remaining a strong player in the world
of work, consider the following two tips.
STAY CURIOUS
Stay up to date with market trends, especially in your area
of work. That does not necessarily mean only focusing on
your industry but perhaps your area of work that is likely to
fit into many industries. Be willing to change, transform,
or evolve as many times as needed. If your industry was
strongly affected by the recent events, perhaps it is time
to explore new territories of work or regions.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
• Learn a new skill or two. Judging by the future of
work reports, anything digital or remote is likely
to be useful in the future. Get up to date on the
latest tech, future skills sets, including soft power
skills like emotional intelligence, creative skills,
entrepreneurial mindset, lean methodology, and
others.
• Improve your public speaking or online presentation
skills. These are the top skills needed for many
jobs today, and as you climb up the career ladder,
effective business communication skills are vital to
your success.
• Enrol in a programme to get further education, like
executive courses, certifications and skill-building
courses. Money is no longer an obstacle to learn
with platforms like Coursera and Udemy that are
available and cover many areas of knowledge.
• Read, read, read—your brain is a muscle, you need
to exercise it. Read on topics that are different,
expand your view and perspective.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. In order to make sure
we are curious about the outside world, we need to
maintain curiosity in our own minds and bodies. Are
you your best self physically and mentally? Have
you discovered what else you can do when it comes
to maintaining a healthy, vibrant, and energised
body? Stay with a regular exercise programme, eat
healthily, explore your body, protect your energy,
take time to meditate, take vacations, do things
you enjoy, and write a journal even.
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Two bonus things to add to your growth list:
• You always need to MAKE time to maintain or
expand existing networks and to create new
ones. Being too busy in your current job is no
longer an excuse. You simply must make time
for building and nurturing relationships. It can
be in group gatherings, even virtual meetings,
a phone call, an email, or a holiday greeting.
• Don’t get too comfortable. You have to keep
learning, keep an eye out for opportunities,
stay active in your industry and externally as
well. This can be done by attending various
events, participating in discussions, panel
presentations, talks, etc.
CONNECT
As life gets busy and we get caught up in our work,
with our phones, we forget how to connect with others.
We neglect relationships around us; we tend to only
focus on business outcomes and often forget how to
connect as humans. Why is this essential in your work,
you might wonder? Because even with technological
advances taking over all aspects of our lives, soft skills
such as emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence,
and empathy are still one of the most valuable traits
one can have, especially in senior roles, where your
main job is to manage, motivate, inspire, and lead.
You need to grow and practise these skills. This is
something technology cannot replace—at least not
any time soon. The only way to do it is to spend time
with others, connect in a quality way, and listen.
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Here are some ways to maintain a human touch
and also improve the quality of relationships in
your life:
• Start at home. Make time for quality
family time; put your phone away at
dinner. Visit your family members, make
time to know what is happening in their
lives. Give them attention. They need
you the most. This is your base; this is
your home; this is your support network.
• Check-in with friends. Put effort into
getting to know how things are going
for them. Listen. Listen to things that
are unsaid. Listen to just listen. With no
expectations. The most valuable thing
you can give someone is your time.
• Do the same with your co-workers.
Be present. Be curious. Put away your
phone! Talk. Share. Connect. Help each
other grow. Lead by example.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ELENA AGARAGIMOVA
Managing Partner at Bessern and Talent Development Specialist
Elena is an entrepreneur, talent development specialist, and education advocate
with a deep interest in neuro and behavioural sciences. She is known for her
ability to drive change within individuals and organisations that are looking to
reach their potential and maintain their competitive edge in the business world.
She has started her career in higher education, having worked across various
institutions, departments and regions. In her recent years, she dove into business
and joined Bessern, as well as founded a learning and developing consultancy,
as well as several other projects within the talent development arena.
She is an engaging skilled trainer and talent development specialist, credited
with combining operations, education, and international expertise to design
and deliver programs for diverse audiences. Elena has a strong passion for
L&D, promoting creative and engaging workplaces and all about optimising
performance through the development of others. As a career coach, Elena has
over ten years of experience working individuals across different generations,
supporting them in achieving their professional and personal goals.
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7 Steps
to Discover
Your Purpose
Are you feeling lost, or do you feel like your life lacks
purpose? Not sure what your mission on earth is?
Confused about your calling? Want to contribute and
help others but don’t know how? Or maybe you’re
just looking to make a transition in your career or
even open up your own business but don’t know
what direction to take?
Do you want to have a greater understanding of your
life’s greater purpose? Find a career that fulfils your
greater purpose? Find greater meaning and purpose
in your current career? See the greater meaning in the
experiences in your life? Live in alignment with your
true self? Replace limiting beliefs with empowering
beliefs? Create the life of your dreams?
If that’s how you feel, then I suggest you pull out your
journal and pen, and continue reading this article.
More than a decade of experience trying to find my
own purpose and helping others find theirs has helped
me identify the 7 steps to the discovery process.
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INSIGHTS FROM
CHILDHOOD
The first step to discovering your purpose is to take a
trip down memory lane into your childhood. Why? It is
because you were born with a purpose. You are here for a
reason. Your presence matters. Nothing is a coincidence.
When you were born, your purpose was stored safely into
your heart, and it was shining bright, but over the years,
as a result of social conditioning and circumstances, that
light has dimmed. We want it to shine bright again, so
we have to shed layers and unlearn.
Journal prompts to reflect on:
• As a kid, what was my favourite memory?
• What game did I love to play?
• What was my favourite toy?
• What was my favourite compliment that I ever
received?
Then, take it one step further and ask yourself why. This
process requires you to question everything and to then
allow the answers to flow through you.
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PASSION
The second step to discovering your purpose is to look at your passions.
What is it that you love to do? There are many ways to help you gain insights
into your passion, however, one of the most effective ways is the following.
Journal prompts to reflect on:
• How do you love spending your free time?
• What activities bring you joy?
• What topics and events bring you excitement?
• And lastly, if you had unlimited time and resources, so you did not
have to worry about money, how would you be spending your free
time? What would you be googling? What would you be looking in to?
Once you’ve written them down, ask yourself, how does this list make me
feel? Go through every single one of your answers and observe the feeling
that is created in your body. Remember, it is all about feeling high vibrational
feelings throughout the journey, such as joy and excitement.
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TALENTS
The third step to discovering your purpose is to look at your talents.
What are you good at? One of the biggest misconceptions people
have is that they think their passion alone leads them to their
purpose. However, your purpose is where your talents AND passions
meet. You not only have to love what you are doing, but you also
have to be good at it.
Talents can be natural talents or experience talents; talents that you’re
naturally gifted with or talents that you’ve learned and acquired over
the years through your experiences.
Journal prompts to reflect on for your natural talents:
• What do you consider easy?
• What are you naturally good at?
• What do people come to you for advice or help with?
• And lastly, what could you never imagine charging people for
because you feel like it’s too easy for you and it’s too natural for you?
Once you’ve written them down, ask yourself, how does this list
make me feel? This whole process requires you to be in touch with
your feelings and the sensations each idea creates within your body.
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COMMUNITY
The fourth step to discovering your purpose is to look at your community. Jim Rohn
has a famous quote which states that we are the average of the five people we
spend the most of our time with, so it’s absolutely vital that we become intentional
with our community and with whom we spend our time with.
Journal prompts to reflect on:
• Who is it that you’re surrounding yourself with?
• When you’re in their presence, how do you feel?
• When you leave them, how do you feel?
• What topics of discussion do you engage in?
• Are they limiting or empowering?
• Do they inspire you?
• Do you have shared goals and dreams?
In this step, it is important for you to take a moment and to ask yourself if you are
willing to get intentional with your community, to ensure that the community that
you choose will inspire you to walk confidently in the direction of your highest self.
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DESERVE,
DREAMS &
DESIRES
The fifth step to discovering your purpose is to look at your three Ds,
deserving, dreams and desires.
Deserve is to take a look at what it is that you deserve or believe that you
deserve in life. Dreams are taking a look at what it is that your soul is trying
to tell you and desires are about what you truly want in life.
The reason being that most of the time, we push back our true desires is
because we believe that we are not worthy of them. Therefore, we want to
get to the root cause of the block, and once we’ve discovered that, we then
want to look at our dreams; what are some recurring dreams that I’m having?
What is it that my soul and my subconscious mind is trying to tell me?
Lastly, we want to look at our desires. A great way to discover that is to ask
yourself the following two questions:
• If you’re put in a library, what type of books are you going to pull out?
• If you’re in a supermarket, what type of magazines are you most
attracted to?
Once you have your answers written down, ask yourself the magic word,
why.
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VALUES &
BELIEFS
The sixth step to discovering your purpose is to look at your core values and your
beliefs.
Why are core values important? It is because these are the values that you stand
for. They are powerful guides to your actions, behaviours, decisions and attitudes.
Your beliefs that you have about yourself, others, the world that you live in and
your career, play a major role in your experience of reality. For example, if you
believe that you live in a world where you are not able to practise your purpose
and be successful, then your reality is going to reflect that. Once you’ve written
down your list, go through them and ask yourself if each belief is limiting or
empowering. If it is a limiting belief, then set an intention to let it go.
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VISION &
PURPOSE
The final step to discovering your purpose is to look at your vision. Vision is the
modality you use to serve your purpose, and you can have numerous visions.
Knowing your persona is one of the ways to gain clarity into your vision. There are five
types of personas:
• Connector: All about bringing people together and creating a community.
• Builder: The doers, the swiller workers. They are all about structure.
• Teacher: Loves to share knowledge and wisdom.
• Creators: The visionaries and innovators.
• Thinkers: The challenger seekers. They love to solve problems.
Once we know the personas that reason most with us, we have much more clarity
when we’re thinking about our visions.
These seven steps will provide you with the insights you need to discover your purpose
on your journey of self-discovery. Do not be who your parents, partner, friends want
you to be. Take this opportunity to peel the layers of labels and social conditioning to
get to your core essence, to who you were created to be. Do not for one second think
that you must be imprisoned by who you were twenty years ago. Every moment is an
opportunity for change and growth.
If you would like to
dive deeper into
each step and learn
more about how
each step correlates
with one another,
check out the 7-week
self-paced online
course at https://
minutesongrowth.
teachable.com
About the author
Tannaz Hosseinpour, founder of Minutes on Growth Coaching, is a Dubai-based
certified life coach specialising in mindset and relationships. She helps millennials
manifest and cultivate empowered lives through one-on-one coaching, online programs,
podcast episodes and social media content. She is the host of her self-improvement
podcast, Minutes on Growth, available on Spotify, Apple and Google Podcast. She
holds a Masters of Law degree in alternative dispute resolution, specialising in family
mediation. Since 2017, she is also the CEO and founder of TP Education Consultants,
an educational consultancy firm based in Toronto, Tehran and Dubai.
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Website: www.minutesongrowth.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/minutesongrowth

The Flow:
The Secret to a Happier Life
Have you ever been doing something you love when
you felt completely immersed, that it was almost
like everything around you ceased to exist at that
moment? Time seems to just fly by, and voices in
the background fade into a blur, as you pour your
attention into that moment. Calm and focus seem
to intertwine, and you feel most productive and at
peace.
If your answer is yes, then you have experienced
flow. Doing things in a state of flow will bring you an
influx of positive emotions, including confidence, joy,
mindfulness, and motivation. What does it actually
mean, and how can you do more of it?
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Flow – A Definition
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is the positive psychologist
who is most widely associated with the concept
of flow. He described it as “…being completely
involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego
falls away—time flies. Every action, movement, and
thought follows inevitably from the previous one,
like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and
you’re using your skills to the utmost.”
It’s what you might call being in the zone. I’m totally
familiar with the feeling, but I must say it has been
a little while since I’ve been completely in the zone,
without a nagging at the back of my mind about
“the something else” that needs to be done. If
you want to reach that space of flow, you’ve got to
make sure that your environment is set up for it. You
want it to be as easy as possible to start the task,
and carry it on without being distracted by external
things, or by your own inner thoughts. It’s about
taking a look at activities that you actually enjoy
doing, and elements in the environment (internal
and external) that will help you to ease your way
through.
For example, my highest states of flow are usually
when I’m reading, watching a movie (rom-com, of
course), or creating and designing coaching content
for my clients. Before, you couldn’t stop me when
I was at the keyboard. Once my fingers started
tapping away, the content would flow straight from
the heart on to the screen–sometimes so quickly that
my fingers couldn’t keep up with my thoughts and
I’d have to dictate before writing. Then, the world
turned upside down, and I found myself–like so
many of you–reassessing my priorities, my routines,
and everything in between. Something about that
process interfered with my writing experience, so
that for a couple of months I would sit at the laptop
for twice the amount of time that I used to in order
to produce a great piece of writing. I made the
decision to make it easier. For me, it was as simple
as creating an environment that actually felt easy–
setting the kids up with an activity, switching on
my fairy lights, adding some rugs to my office, and
putting on a good soundtrack in the background–
and boom, I was back in the zone.
Now, some of you may be reading this and adulting
as you read. Maybe you’re asking yourself how
on earth you are supposed to find time to totally
submit to one specific experience when you have
a mountain load of other ‘more important’ things
to be getting along with. Here is where you could
probably benefit from remembering that doing
things that bring you positive emotions is important.
In fact, I would go so far as to say that it is one of
the most important factors in maintaining mental
wellbeing.
We all have it within us to allow for these flowing
experiences to happen. Can you remember when
you were a child and you could get so engrossed in
what you were playing with that the rest of the world
just melted away? I know my kids do it–that creativity
and flow–doesn’t just disappear as we get older.
We make a choice based on what we think an adult
is “supposed” to do or feel. Creatives are looked
at as crazies with no organisational skills. Thinking
outside the box is seen as rebellious. But you know
what? If that’s how people want to react to your
awesome and authentic self, let them. That’s their
choice, and their baggage. Remember childhood’s
pure joy: don’t you want that for yourself?

Perfect Your Flow
If you’ve read everything so far, and it has
sparked a desire in you to flow more, here
are two important factors that will get you
on your way.
KEY #1:
If you want to get in the zone, the things you
are doing need to be slightly challenging.
It shouldn’t be so hard that you want to
give up right away, but something that
just stretches you. For me, that translates
to learning something new. When I enrol
in a new course or training or pick up a
new book, as long as it’s on a topic that
I am passionate about, that slight stretchy
challenge comes from absorbing and
applying new information.
If you want to experience ‘the flow’, make
sure you’re going beyond your standard
state of being. Pick something that
challenges you. If you want to choose an
experience that you are already familiar
with, see if you can change it up somehow
so that you’re stretching yourself.
KEY #2:
You should have really clear short-term
goals for doing the thing you’ve chosen,
and you should be able to get feedback
as soon as you’ve finished doing it. If I am
doing something and my heart is totally not
in it – like washing the dishes while staring
out of the window - I’m definitely not in
the zone! However, if I went into washing
the dishes with the goal of being able to
go and meet up with a beloved friend
afterwards and I’m getting the instant
feedback of watching the dishes begin to
sparkle, it would be much easier for me to
be in the flow.
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Planning for flow
As part of the research into flow,
Csikszentmihalyi observed creatives, such as
artists, as they worked. He saw how totally
focused artists were on what they were
painting. They persevered with their art, even
when they had physical feelings of discomfort.
I’m not going to be selling my artwork in
galleries in this lifetime, but I do get totally
immersed when I’m colouring in mandalas.
It’s important to give yourself a bit of time and
space to plan for the activity you are going to
melt into. If you don’t fancy painting, it won’t
do you any good to buy that canvas and sit at
an easel for hours simply because it seems like
the ‘right’ way to flow. I asked the question on
my Facebook group to find out what activities
people could get into a flow doing–you’d
be surprised how many said ironing. So,
go with what feels good to you, and own it
without comparing to anybody else. Prime
your environment so that feels good too.
Remember, it’s not a waste of time. It is an
investment in your wellbeing.
About the Author
Sarah Babiker is a positive psychology coach, absolutely passionate
about helping people realise all the goodness that they have within.
It is her mission in life to guide people to uncover their potential,
clear their fears, and get them on the way to living their best life in
a way that feels good and right to them.
She is the founder of Flourish by Sarah, and one of three co-founders
of Soul Space. She works with children and adults, both individually
through Soul Space, and in programmes through Flourish by Sarah.
She is a children’s book author, focused on introducing children to
concepts in positive psychology in an age-appropriate and fun way.
Sarah is also certified as a children’s yoga teacher.
Sarah grew up in England, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan, and currently
lives in Dubai with my husband and two children. Having this
experience of a mix of cultures growing up has helped her to be
able to relate to people from varying walks of life. She believes
everybody has the answers to their best life within and guides them
to make it happen.
Learn more about Sarah Babiker’s work at www.flourishbysarah.com
and www.soulspace.ae/life-coach.
If you are interested in practical ways to incorporate positive
psychology into your life, join Sarah’s Facebook group: The Good
Life – Positive Psychology for Every Day.
You can also follow Sarah on Instagram
flourishbysarah
sarahbabiker_lifecoach
thrivingchildbooks
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Food
5
Must - Try
Lebanese
Dishes
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With French, Arab, and Turkish influences, Lebanese cuisine is one
of the healthiest and most flavourful in the world. The geographic
location of Lebanon allows this exotic country to utilise only the
freshest catch from the Mediterranean and the finest produce from
one of the Arab world’s most fertile lands in the Beqaa Valley.
Lebanese cuisine centres mostly on lamb, vegetables, and nuts,
among others. Whether you are enjoying a warm afternoon in a cosy
restaurant in downtown Beirut or basking in the hospitality of a rural
Lebanese home, make sure to check out these 5 Lebanese dishes
that will have you yearning for more.
1. Kibbeh
There’s no better way to appreciate
a country than through its national
dish. When it comes to Lebanon,
there can only be one king of the
national kitchen: Kibbeh. This is
a dish that has bulgur wheat as its
base. Choice meats, spices, and nuts
are added into the wheat to create
a very fine paste. Once the mixture
turns into a thick and stretchy lump,
the cook then shapes them into
balls.
There are many ways of enjoying
Kibbeh. You can have them raw,
stuffed and fried, baked, or fried as
is. Some people call raw Kibbeh as
Kibbeh Nayyeh. You can consider
it as the Lebanese version of your
steak tartare. If you stuff the ball and
then fry them, they’re called Kibbeh
Nabilseeyah. You can also enjoy
a vegetarian version of Kibbeh by
ditching the lamb for tomatoes,
pumpkin, and potatoes. Most
restaurants serve Kibbeh with mint
leaves before getting a hint of olive
oil.
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2. Baba ghanoush
First-time tourists to Lebanon are often
asked a very peculiar question: hummus or
Baba ghanoush? It is easy to mistake Baba
ghanoush and hummus as being one and
the same. This is because the two dishes
look very similar. The difference is in the
taste. Once you have taken a mouthful of
Baba ghanoush, you will know the distinct
difference between it and hummus.
The secret to the Lebanese Baba
ghanoush is the use of eggplants instead
of chickpeas. You will get that rich
flavour and creamy texture of eggplants.
Eggplants get char-grilled, then mashed
before getting mixed with garlic puree,
olive oil, tahina, and lemon juice. If you
happen to get the Baba ghanoush with
pomegranate toppings, you’ll know you’re
already in heaven. Baba ghanoush is often
served with classic pita bread. However,
you can also enjoy it with your crisp, raw
vegetables. It is perfect either as a spread
or as a dip.
3. Shawarma
Shawarma is not a Lebanese original. This
marinated, mouth-watering, spit-roasted meat has
its origins in Turkey. However, being once a part
of the Ottoman Empire, Lebanon has embraced
the dish as its own, as did other Levant countries
and Greece. Shawarma is perfect with pita bread
or even a lavash. You can eat it by itself, too.
The dish calls for the marinating of choice
meat in a mixture of cinnamon, spicy paprika,
lemon, black pepper, cardamom, ginger, garlic,
nutmeg, bay leaf, allspice, cloves, and dried
lime. The base is either vinegar or yoghurt. Some
Shawarma makers also use orange slices to give
the marinade a sweet and tangy taste. The secret
to a great Lebanese Shawarma is to marinate the
slices of meat – lamb, beef, turkey, or chicken,
or any combination – overnight. You must give it
ample time for the different flavours of the spices
to get into each fibre of the meats. And when
you slow-cook the meat, you will have the most
succulent pieces of meat you will ever have.
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4. Manakish
Are you tired of the usual pizza? How about
you try Lebanon’s version of the classic Italian
dish. They call this Manakish. However, this is
not really a Lebanese pizza. It is more a go-to
breakfast food that is like an egg and cheese
sandwich that Westerners have for breakfast.
Manakish is a very popular dish intended
primarily for starting the day right. What you
get is a flatbread that’s topped with cheese
and za’atar. You also get a hearty serving of
fresh tomatoes, mint leaves, olives, and fresh
cucumbers.
It goes without saying that the key
ingredient here is za’atar. This is a spice
blend that the Lebanese have learned to
make to perfection. It consists of toasted
sesame seeds, Lebanese oregano, sumac,
thyme and a few other spices. The mixture
gets mixed with the finest olive oil you can
get. Cooks spread the za’atar blend on a
flatbread before placing it into a brick oven
to bake.
5. Sfiha
If you’re yearning for a meatier version of Manakish,
then you’ve got to check Sfiha. This is a staple in many
Arab countries, although the Lebanese make this
pizza-like dish like no other. The edges of the crust
have that nice crisp to them that sounds so wonderful
to the ears at first bite. As you get nearer the centre,
you’ll get a soft texture that blends so well with the
sumptuous meat toppings. Sfiha is a favourite snack
of many Lebanese, often served with yoghurt or tahini
sauce.
The toppings are often made of minced lamb, although
you can always substitute it with ground beef. Some
cooks prefer using veal because it is a lot more tender
and has that succulence that is sometimes missing in
beef. The addition of a unique 7-spice blend gives the
ground meat a punchy flavour. Pomegranate molasses
give the meat mixture a hint of sweetness, tanginess,
and an overall pleasant flavour profile.
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If you think these dishes sound so tasty, delicious, and
heart-filling, wait until you get a good taste of them.
We’re confident that the experience will open your
eyes to the exciting world of Lebanese cuisine.

FITNESS
How to Stay Fit and Healthy
with Low Mobility
Whether you have low mobility to begin with, or you’re
recovering from an injury, taking on advanced workout
might not be the best thing to do. However, not being
able to run due to a knee injury or lift heavy weights
because of a shoulder injury doesn’t mean you can’t
stay fit and healthy. If you choose the right workout and
prepare yourself well, you can minimise the risk of injury,
and you can become an even better you.
When exercising with low mobility, you have to
remember that taking it slow is incredibly important.
This will allow you to be active in the long term. It will
also help you increase your mobility over time. You
may feel like doing things quickly would get you faster
results. Although that’s true in theory, practically slower
progress is much more sustainable and realistic.
If you’re a complete newbie, or you just want to create
a good foundation for your body, you may need to do
exercises at the beginning that will strengthen muscle
groups, which will, in turn, give you better posture
and better movement. That means you have to start
improving your core strength: work those abs. If it
is possible for you to do it, you should do the McGill
Big Three. Developed by Dr Stuart McGill, these three
exercises are aimed at giving you a stronger core.
a. Modified Curl-Up
b. Side Bridge
c. Bird Dog
If you have no foundation for working out, try to do
these three until you feel ready for a more advanced
workout. And when you are ready, these three exercises
will be your warm-up session.
From this point, depending on your goal, you want to
move towards different avenues.
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Walking
Let’s just start by saying this, walking
a great exercise! It is incredibly
underrated. If you can walk without
pain, it’s something you should
really consider. Walking for 15 to
20 minutes a day can do wonders
for your overall health. It’s a great
low-intensity workout that can burn
a lot of calories. If you hate doing
workouts like HIIT, walking will
change your life. True, it doesn’t
burn as many calories as something
more intense, but higher-intensity
does not equal better quality. So
go out for a walk, get some fresh
air and explore your city.
Swimming
Swimming is the king of low
mobility exercises. It not only has a
lot of benefits that other exercises
have, but it’s also a lot of fun.
The buoyancy of the water helps
you move in the water without
assistance. It improves mobility
in the joints, and it stimulates
circulation and breathing. It is
excellent for cardiovascular fitness,
and injuries from swimming are
incredibly rare, and it improves
flexibility. There are also tons of
exercises you can do in the water.
In fact, if it’s too difficult for you to
walk on solid ground, walking in a
pool is a great alternative.
Weight Training
The beauty of lifting weights is that
you start from any level and easily
record yourself getting stronger.
There are a lot of exercises you
could do, and if there are certain
ones you can’t do, there would be
another one for the same body
part. Weightlifting has also shown
to improve posture, get rid of back
pain and get rid of knee pain. If
you haven’t lifted weights before
due to the many misconceptions
that exist about it, you should
reconsider. Gyms usually have
several machines to help you get
started especially for people with
low mobility.
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Yoga
Yoga is beneficial for everyone! It
can be a life-changer. There are so
many types of stretches that yoga
offers that no matter what issue
you have, you can get a good
workout. Yoga specifically helps
you improve your flexibility. It also
helps you lower the risk of getting
injured, and helps with mental
health. It can decrease stress and
can relieve anxiety.
The best advice is to do a
combination of all these exercises.
However, when it comes to
exercise, you should try to do
something that you like. So, if you
only like one of these, do that one.
Exercise should be fun, only then
can you do it in the long term.
So take your pick and start your
journey to improving the rest of
your life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hani P Jamal currently studies Journalism at the Amity University Dubai,
having travelled all the way from Oman where he was born and raised to
pursue his dreams. He explored numerous creative outlets and realised that
exploring the potential of his voice was his calling. He grew up with a family
that had a very successful business, which made the path he took a ‘one less
travelled’.
On many occasions, he flew around the world, displaying the effort he is willing
to put into achieving his goals. On one such occasion, he travelled to Kuwait
for an open quiz competition, where he took the gold medal home. Hani sings
at live events, acts in theatres, and participates in exciting quiz shows.
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100
TRA

VEL
CONTEMPORARY LUXURY AT
SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT AND VILLAS
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102
Pristine white sands and turquoise
waters await paradise seekers
in pursuit of a modern Arabian
ambience, only in the idyllic island
of Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat
Rotana Resort and Villas invites
locals and tourists alike to enjoy a
cultural and leisure experience like
no other, being surrounded with
iconic destinations and attractions
in the island, such as Louvre Abu
Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat and
Yas Island, to name a few.

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A FIVE-STAR WELCOME
A generous display of striking spaces which
pride of uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf
meets the eye upon entering Saadiyat Rotana.
The homely warmth of hospitality radiates with
the smiles of the resort staff ushering guests
through the check-in process. Enjoy light
meals, delectable desserts and mouthwatering
refreshments at the Sama Lobby Lounge when
you find yourself in the lobby of Saadiyat
Rotana.
A FLAIR OF MIDDLE EAST ROOMS,
LUXURIOUS VILLAS
Utmost comfort can be found while relishing in
the unhindered views of the sea, impeccable
grounds and well spaced pool area in Saadiyat
Rotana Resort and Villas—designed with the
casual elegance of contemporary Arabian
architecture with the touch of an all-year
summer vibe. The resort offers wide range
accommodation options to suit the visitors’
tastes. Beach house-inspired rooms have ultracomfy
beds, open-plan bathrooms, walk-in
showers and balconies inviting guests to relax in
the view of the sea. The expansive suites, ideal
for large groups and families, are wonderfully
bright and airy and have separate homely living
rooms. The villas, which are the most luxurious
accommodation options available, are even a
lavish league of their own: guests experience
a vacation like no other with the large private
plunge pools and fully furnished terrace with
direct access to the beach.
A LUSH BEACH HEAVEN TO EXPLORE
Saadiyat Island is home to one of the UAE’s
exclusive and stunning beaches, with its 9-km
beach abundant with fine white sands. Saadiyat
Rotana, with an impeccable beachfront, offers an
immaculate haven to explore and find relaxation.
The lush greenery that blends with the view of
the beachfront calms even the weariest minds.
The lavish pool area surrounded with modish
cabanas and a Pool Bar invites you to a serene
day of soaking under the Arabian sun. Step into
the invigorating, clear turquoise waters for a
swim or float-away your stresses.
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105

A GASTRONOMIC FEAST AT THE
MARKET BRUNCH
Feast away at the best of what the
most delicious of brunches has to offer
at The Market Brunch at Sim Sim, the
international restaurant of Saadiyat
Rotana. The Market Brunch features a
market-theme setup, complete with a
display of fresh fruits and vegetables
along the entrance and an eclectic
showcase of live cooking stations. The
well-loved crowd favourite offers a wide
range of sumptuous food along with
your favourite adult beverages, nicely
laid out on barrels and carts in a garden
area.
A SUMPTUOUS DINNER TO
REMEMBER AT TOP RATED
RESTAURANTS
Savour the fresh food “from the sea”
or prime cuts “from the land”, done to
perfection, and just the way you like it in
a top-rated venue at the Turtle Bay Bar
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and Grill. Choose from an outside terrace area overlooking
the pool or the indoor area to match your mood. If you
want to catch up with friends and colleagues, head
for an enjoyable social night at Hamilton’s Gastropub,
which offers innovative beverages and craft brews. Find
the authentic Italian culinary craftsmanship at the Si
Ristorante Italiano & Bar. And finally, if you are looking
for the best island-style eating and entertainment, the
Nasma Beachfront Bar is the place to be.
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SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT & VILLAS
SAADIYAT ISLAND, ABU DHABI
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
T: +971 2 697 0000 | F: +971 2 697 0123

For the
Culture
Charismatic Leadership:
Leading with the Right Emotions
The greatest leaders, or at least those with the best leadership potentials,
do not always become presidents of nations, prime ministers, nor religious
leaders and the like. Some of the greatest leaders are unsung heroes that
most media outlets will ever have breaking news to report on. People cling to
and love leaders who are passionate, charismatic, persuasive and represent
a strong ideal. This type of leadership is called charismatic authority or
charismatic leadership. Coined by the German sociologist Max Weber, and it
involves a type of leadership in which authority emanates from the charisma
of the leader.
Charismatic leaders radiate strong auras or magnetic presences. When they
speak, they usually channel positive messaging through optimistic words,
open gestures and bright, strong emotions. They can usually inspire others
to lead, as well. Often, they channel so much positive energy that they can
readily influence and ‘infect’ others with their ideals and principles. If an
organisation needs a catalyst to speed things up and create a movement,
the best type of leader to take the reins is a charismatic one.
111

BECOMING AN EMOTIONAL, CHARISMATIC
LEADER
To become a charismatic leader, one must improve their
emotional quotient (EQ) to be able to channel the most
positive emotions, empathy and passion. Emotionally
mature individuals who are a cut above the rest, likely
develop or become natural leaders. One must also hold
on to a passion and a strong reason to lead to become
a charismatic leader.
In the best and worst of times, make it a priority to be
optimistic, enthusiastic, and positive in gesture, tone,
and mood. A person’s charisma, which could spring from
a great well of empathy, should not have to be the most
likeable, but only enough to win trust and confidence
from people.
CULTIVATE A STRONG IDENTITY
Great organisations are reflective of the charismatic
leaders that lead them: transformational and
progressive. Strong leaders have strong identities
that set them apart from the crowd, and these unique
identities can lend or perhaps forge strong identities
too to the groups or organisations they lead and guide.
Thus, charismatic leaders know that self-image is
critically important.
BE TRANSPARENT
Great leaders know that they must
‘sell’ a culture of transparency within
the group or organisation for the
purpose of accountability, trust and
cohesion. This foundation will set
the premise for leadership qualities
to shine through because the leader
will be able to motivate and develop
confidence through a culture of
openness and responsibility.
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UNDERSTAND THE EMOTIONS OF OTHERS
To motivate others, you must be motivated by the
same purpose or methods. The social skill of selfregulation
is of paramount importance. People are
more receptive to a form of leadership that invokes
modesty, understanding, confidence, and empathy,
and those traits can only come from a person who is
also self-motivated by the right reasons. People also
need to feel that they have an important role to play. In
times of frustration and chaos, the leader must be calm,
intuitive, and logical as he or she can set the tone of the
group’s reaction or emotion as a whole. We do know
that rash decisions are made mostly when our emotions
are unstable and unbalanced, so leaders should focus
on finding solutions to problems with calmness and a
positive mindset.
RESOLVE CONFLICTS WITH EMPATHY
Leadership that seeks to improve on conflict resolution
is making way for conflicts to occur, as this assumes
that conflicts are always there. Instead, the charismatic
leader builds a model of improved communication and a
praise system within the organisation. If a team member
fails at a task, he or she must not be condemned for his
inabilities, but rather be praised for aspects of work done
correctly, as well as encouraged to improve through
transparent communication and training. Being positive
is key in firing up transformational and charismatic
leadership within a group.
There is a popular adage that says, “Show me who your
friends are and I will tell you who you are.” This quote
rings true for leaders in any organisation or community
since the individuals or groups that they lead are a
reflection of the type of leadership that they stand for.
Leaders must use a positive tone to build a culture to
suit the needs of their followers. The culture must then
hold strong and positive emotional ethos. According to
LumenLearning.com, groups with leaders in a positive
mood have a more positive affective tone than groups
with leaders in a negative mood. Hence, your public
expressions of emotions and mood will influence how
group members reflect and perform. Individuals respond
to positive signals more strongly.
Be the leader who builds leaders: be the charismatic
leader who fires up the organisation through a culture of
positivity, transparency, and purpose.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JEROME DOUGLAS
Jerome Douglas is a 27-year old trained teacher, poet and writer from the
beautiful island of Jamaica. His personal philosophy is “If it is for me to
be, then it is up to me.” He attended the Catholic College of Mandeville
in Jamaica. Additionally, he is a community builder and humanitarian who
volunteers his time to help with the academic and social well-being of
people in his Central Jamaica community and surrounding areas.
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BOOK REVIEW
A REVIEW OF TURNING PRO: TAP YOUR INNER POWER
AND CREATE YOUR LIFE’S WORK
114
I have read over a hundred self-help books. I do not know what this says about me. Maybe it says that I am
searching for that one magic bullet to help me become more productive, get rid of my severe procrastination
habit, or find the ultimate key to success in life. Having read so many books, the one thing that rings true is
that there is no magic bullet, and of all the books I have read, Turning Pro confirms this fact.
Turning Pro is one of the best books I have read. It is a short read. I am a fan of Steven Pressfield’s ability
to get to the point without wasting time or padding the book with unnecessary words. The book is about
ditching the path of an amateur and choosing to live your life as a professional. It confronts you with the
naked truth of why you have not been living the life that you should be living. This is a book that you cannot
just read once and forget it. In order to get the true value that this book holds, you have to read it several
times.

In the book, Steven outlines the fact that when we hate our lives
and ourselves, normally two modes present themselves as modes
of salvation. The first is the therapeutic model. In this model, we
are told that we are sick, and after treatment, we will be well. The
second model is the moralistic model which is all about good and
evil. We think that the reason that we are not happy is that we
have done something wrong. We have committed a crime or a
sin. Actually, we are often told that we are born wrong as human
beings. The answer to this condition is punishment and penance.
Only when we have atoned for our sins will we be pardoned and
released. Then we will be happy.
Steven presents a third way. He proposes that what ails you and
I is not that we are sick or have sinned, but that we are living
our lives as amateurs. The suggestion the book gives is that we
‘turn pro’. He warns that running pro is free, but it is not easy. He
makes the option very clear. We can either continue to live a life
less than what we are supposed to in which we are driven by fear,
addiction and distractions, or we can ‘turn pro’ and live the life
that we are supposed to live.
THE AMATEUR LIFE
The ‘amateur life’ is described in the book as a life in which
you take no risks, you play it safe, and you are unfulfilled. He
proposes that we all have a higher vision for our lives, but once
we start moving towards that life, we are met with an apparition
of resistance. Resistance stops you in your tracks and causes you
not to take the risk or any action at all. Are you living the drugs
and booze part of your musician’s life without writing any music?
Steven suggests that many people fool themselves into thinking
that they are actually doing something meaningful by doing
some of what needs to be done but not the important parts.
He likens this to someone who wants to be a musician, but they
never write or perform any music; instead, they get drunk and
plan to always start but never do. The amateur has a million plans
but they all start tomorrow.
SHADOW CAREERS
According to Steven, sometimes when we are terrified of
embracing our true calling, we pursue a ‘shadow calling’ instead.
That shadow career is a metaphor for our real career. It has a similar
shape, its contours feel amazingly the same, but a shadow career
entails no real risk. If we fail a shadow career, the consequences
are meaningless to us. This section of the book got me thinking
about my own career and all that I have done in the past, and it
resonated with me, as I believe that I am still pursuing a shadow
career today. He says that if we are dissatisfied with our current
life, we should ask ourselves what our current life is a metaphor
for. The metaphor will point you to your true calling.
ADDICTIONS
When we are dissatisfied with our lives and are not finding
fulfilment from our shadow careers, we turn to addictions. Steven
says we are all prone to addictions and they are not always that
obvious. In the book, he outlines the story of his friend who was
very smart but was addicted to love and went from one lover
and bad relationship to another. He proposes that we often use
addiction as a surrogate for our calling. We enact the addiction
instead of embracing our calling. Why? He states that we do this
because to follow a calling requires work. It is hard; it hurts. It
demands entering the pain-zone of effort, risk and exposure.
So we take the amateur route instead. When we do this our life
becomes a “shadow symphony”, of which we ourselves are the
orchestra, the conductor, the composer and the audience. Our
life becomes a shadow drama, a shadow start-up company, a
shadow philanthropic venture.
DISTRACTIONS
Concentration and depth are enemies of resistance. According
to Pressfield, when we work with focus and we work deep, we
succeed. Many of us are addicted to distraction. I put my hand
up on this one. Have you checked your email in the last halfhour,
he asks? When you sit down to work, do you have your web
connection on? The one line that has stuck with me since reading
this book is that the amateur tweets and the pro works.
TURNING PRO
Steven states that life becomes very simple when we ‘turn pro’.
We finally listen to that still small voice inside our heads. We get
the courage to identify our secret dream, our passion, our calling,
our destiny. We acknowledge at last what we are most afraid of.
This is what we know in our hearts that we have to do. He goes
on to list some of the qualities of a pro; the major ones I will
mention here, but I encourage you to read the book and the full
list of qualities.
• The pro shows up every day.
• The pro stays on the job all day.
• The pro is committed over the long haul.
• The pro is patient.
• The pro acts in the face of fear.
• The pro accepts no excuses.
• The pro is prepared.
In the end, Steven says that all the work and sacrifice is for the
audience. It is about the readers, moviegoers, the gamers; in
other words, it is all for the people who will benefit from our work.
Do not let fear and resistance allow you to deprive the world of
your talent. Read the book and do what it takes to turn pro.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
LEISA GRACE WILSON is an educator, entrepreneur and
blogger. She currently lives in Abu Dhabi with her seven-yearold
twin boys and husband. Leisa is passionate about personal
development, entrepreneurship, finances and the world of
education. You can connect with Leisa by visiting her blog www.
leisagrace.com or connect with her on Linkedin https://www.
linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/
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SHINE
BRIGHT
Model: Lili Lilla Nagy
Makeup: Liv Rideg
Hair: Izabella Koszeri
Location: Prime Studio, Budapest
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