'It's easy to get caught up in the rat race'

Talking life lessons with Shahzad Bhatti, Founder of The Co-Working PopUp

The number one item on your wish-list?
A vintage 1990's Mercedes convertible. My father had one when he was my age and it brings back fond memories of when times were simpler, and design was hardcore!

One life lesson you want to share.
Take care of your mind and health. Our bodies react to life in different ways but we should learn to listen to our body and take the time to find balance in our life because, in this world of social media, super-fast broadband and tight deadlines, it's easy to get caught up in the rat race and forget to prioritise yourself.

The biggest learning point in your life.
There hasn't been a 'single' learning point so far, but a collection of experiences that have got me to where I am today. One of the biggest lessons I learnt as an entrepreneur was to trademark your logo and your brand. I never really understood how important this was until it was too late.

Advice you'd give your younger self?
Slow down, things will still get done - in business and personal life - even if they aren't done at super-sonic speed.

A country you'd want to move to?
I'm a wanderer so I wouldn't stay in one place, that's for sure! Right now, I split time between The Co-Working PopUp's two locations, Dubai and London, but  I would love to retire somewhere in the countryside in Italy where I can connect with nature. It will be a huge contrast from working in major cities my whole life.

Favourite fictional character of all time?
This would have to be HAL from 2001: A Space Odyssey. I love how people in the past perceived AI to evolve into something evil (and to some extent still do). But this also reminds me that we are really living in the future and it is accessible to all of us to use and build upon. I always remember HAL whenever we have a new AI-based startup joining our startup community.

The best thing you've ever bought yourself?
It was actually a gift, but I still say it's the best thing I have. My iPad is perfect for when I'm on the go and allows me to work remotely from anywhere in the world.

A superpower you wish you had?
I wish I could fly; it would save me a lot of money on tickets!

If you were head of your country, what is the first thing you'd do?
I'd increase female leadership and decision-makers. It's about time male-dominated decision-makers gave room to women to shape and change our society.
- Staff reporter