Weekends are all about downtime. After a week full of work to meet deadlines, everybody needs some breather to relax and recuperate. From watching a favourite web series to planning a vacation, weekends are designated as family and me time. Smita Jatia, vice chairperson, Westlife Foodworld talks to BrandWagon Online about her weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
Outside of work, I find joy and balance in various activities. One thing I particularly enjoy is prioritising my mental and physical well-being. I like attending Geeta lessons, which provide me with guidance and unique perspectives on life’s struggles and successes. These lessons serve as a guiding light, offering wisdom that helps me navigate various aspects of my personal and professional life.
To nurture both my body and soul, I incorporate yoga into my routine. This practice brings inner calm and promotes overall well-being. It’s a wonderful way for me to find balance and connect with myself on a deeper level.
Being in the kitchen and experimenting with recipes is also a source of joy for me. I find great pleasure in the creative process of cooking. It’s a rewarding way to express myself and bring delight to my family through delicious meals.
Lastly, I appreciate the challenges and rewards of hiking. Going on hikes not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also allows me to connect with nature, find serenity, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
These personal interests enrich my life, bringing happiness and fulfillment outside of work. They contribute to my overall well-being, supporting me in both my personal and professional endeavors.
How do you spend your weekends?
Weekends for me are cherished moments where I can prioritise spending quality time with my family. It’s a time to unwind, reconnect and create lasting memories together. I enjoy catching up on a good series or movie, allowing myself to relax and enjoy some entertainment. Additionally, I believe in continuous personal growth, and I dedicate time to my Geeta lessons, which provide valuable insights and guidance.
Weekends also involve regular household chores and fulfilling family commitments, as these are important aspects of maintaining balance and harmony in our lives. Lastly, I make it a point to catch up with close friends, whether it’s through phone calls, meetings, or small get-togethers. Building and nurturing these relationships is essential as they bring immense joy and support.
So, weekends are all about relaxation, rejuvenation, and appreciating the simple pleasures in life.
What are your favorite gadgets?
I am not much of a gadget person, but I do appreciate the role technology plays in our lives. I cannot do without my phone as it has become an indispensable tool for staying connected and managing my busy schedule aiding efficiency and productivity. That being said, my approach to life goes beyond gadgets. I value organisation and creating a system that allows me to make the most of every day, finding joy and balance in all aspects of life, both with and without reliance on technology.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
For me, the yearning to craft meaningful experiences remains strong, whether through the power of business or the artistry of design. Therefore, given the option to choose an alternate career, my heart would gravitate towards the captivating world of architecture and interior design. There is an undeniable allure in creating something tangible, something that others can cherish and call their own. Spaces that not only inspire but also enhance the lives of individuals and contribute to their overall well-being.
Which is your favorite vacation spot?
London holds a special place in my heart. It is a destination I truly enjoy and never get bored of visiting. The vibrant city offers a perfect fusion of history, culture and modernity. Every time I visit London, I am captivated by its charm. The city’s rich heritage, diverse culinary scene and vibrant atmosphere make it a place that I always find myself longing to go back to.
Additionally, the Southern Scenic Circle Tour in New Zealand is another of my most cherished vacation spots, especially for its breathtaking scenery. When I visited the destination with my family and embarked on this self-drive adventure, we were treated to the majestic mountains, enchanting rainforests and the rhythmic embrace of the vast ocean. The place was not only soothing but also became a favorite vacation destination for me as it was a perfect blend of natural wonders and exploration.
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching.
As a health enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to improve my well-being. So, when I stumbled upon the Netflix series “Live to 100: Secrets of Blue Zones,” I was immediately intrigued. This captivating series takes viewers on a journey to five regions around the world where people consistently live exceptionally long and healthy lives. What struck me most about the series was its emphasis on the holistic nature of well-being. It’s not just about eating the right foods or exercising regularly; it’s also about cultivating strong social connections, finding purpose in life and reducing stress. This holistic approach resonated deeply with me and I highly recommend watching it.
When it comes to TV shows, the classic sitcom that never fails to cheer me up has to be “Friends”. This timeless sitcom has been my go-to comfort show for years, and I am sure it is true for many others.
Talking about an ad campaign, my all-time favourite has been our very own campaign “McDonald’s mein hai kuch baat”. This ad beautifully captures the idea that our true selves shine through when we feel comfortable and at ease and stands out as a refreshingly authentic and empowering message. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, the “Stage fright” ad is a welcome reminder that we are all worthy of love and acceptance, just as we are. I highly recommend checking it out.