'Know your strengths and cultivate them'

Talking work-life balance with Sushma Shetty Adams, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Plaza Premium Group

How do you typically start your workday?
By shouting, "Hey Google. Stop!" at my morning alarm. A quick breakfast with the kids later, I'm off to work.

What is your favourite thing about your job?
Airports are a very interesting space, where you see people from all walks of life and various parts of the world. The excitement of travel and the anticipation of the journey ahead is written all over their faces. Airports are becoming an integral part of travel lifestyle with lounging, dining and shopping all thrown in as a part of the experience. To see travellers relaxing and enjoying what we have to offer is definitely the best part of the job.

In your workday, what is the one thing you cannot do without?
My calculator. I know that sounds lame, but I work a lot with numbers.

What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
Don't overthink life. Show up and make the most of it.

Who's your role model as the perfect professional, and why?
I don't have a specific role model. I do not look up to people as role models because I believe that each of us is different. Our circumstances are different, as are our goals, challenges and opportunities. I try to be the best version of myself and focus on what I want to achieve and where I want to see myself. I never want to look back and think I should or shouldn't have followed a certain path, so I give the best of myself to each day.

What is one important skill you think every professional should necessarily have?
The ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start all over again.

Any insights or tips you can share on how to make the most of the hours in a workday?
Every morning, prioritise and write down the most important things you need to accomplish through the day, followed by the ones of lesser importance. Then, make sure you go down the list from top to bottom without being interrupted.

How do you maintain a good work-life balance?
Time needs to be made for what is important to you in your life. After work, I usually spend the evening with my kids and husband and watch a movie at home. We have early bedtimes for our little ones. On weekends, we head to one of the theme parks or go for a spa day at one of the scores of beautiful hotels in this city. Occasionally, we also have friends over for a barbecue at our house.

Any advice for youngsters just getting into the professional arena?
Know your strengths and cultivate them. Your strengths are what will become your identity in the professional world.
- Staff Reporter