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. Akshay Verma, co-founder, FITPASS talks to BrandWagon Online about his weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
When I’m not working, there are two things that truly recharge me. Firstly, spending quality time with my son is my top priority. Watching him grow up so quickly is a constant reminder of how precious time is, and being able to share moments together is priceless. Whether it’s playing games or exploring nature, those moments with him are irreplaceable.
Secondly, I like to read and practice methods of biohacking. Exploring various genres not only broadens my perspective but also fuels my curiosity for understanding the intricacies of life, business and human potential. Additionally, dabbling witho biohacking techniques allows me to continuously aspire to optimise my health and well-being, understanding the boundaries of what’s possible both physically and mentally. It’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that I find both fascinating and rewarding.
How do you spend your weekends?
Ideally, I would like to spend weekends to unwind and recharge, maybe indulging in some hobbies or leisurely activities. However, the reality tends to be quite different. Weekends often end up being busier than weekdays, with a never-ending list of errands, family commitments, social engagements, and more. It is just crucial to balance everything so that it fits in your time frame while also finding time for relaxation.
Last weekend was really special for us. It was a quiet one and my wife, son, and I ended up spending a few hours in our garden. Just enjoying watching the 17 species of birds that visited, various butterflies, bees, and ladybugs. It was a different kind of bliss to hear birdsong and watch squirrels, shrews and our son play and frolic among the variety of plants we’ve managed to grow there – over 236 species and counting.
What are your favorite gadgets?
My favorite gadgets include my Concept2 rowing machine, Garmin fitness tracker, and motorised standing desk. They keep me active, informed, and productive. These gadgets may seem simple, but they play a crucial role in helping me stay healthy, active, and focused on my goals, both in and out of the office.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity to pursue a different career path instead of co-founding FITPASS, I would have considered exploring opportunities in the world of finance.. Drawing from my background as an investment banker in London, specialising in leveraged finance and private equity, I believe I could have found fulfilling roles within that industry. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in that field and found it incredibly enriching in terms of learning and professional growth. One possibility would be to continue along that trajectory, perhaps exploring opportunities in a hedge fund, as many of my former colleagues have done.
Which is your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot has to be Croatia. It’s absolutely breathtaking with its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters. What I love most is the abundance of adventure sports opportunities, from hiking and biking to water sports like sailing and diving. Croatia also has beautiful wildlife reserves, adding to its charm as a nature lover’s paradise. Overall, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable vacation filled with both adventure and relaxation
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching
For TV shows, I highly recommend watching ‘Planet Earth’ and ‘Planet Earth II,’ both narrated by the legendary Sir David Attenborough. These series offer amazing cinematography and fascinating insights into the wonders of our planet. As Sir David Attenborough wisely states, “We have a finite environment – the planet. Anyone who thinks that you can have infinite growth in a finite environment is either a madman or an economist.” This quote highlights the necessity of respecting and protecting our environment, a message which is also echoed throughout these captivating shows.
Movie: ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ is a powerful and inspiring film that I highly recommend. Starring Will Smith, it tells the true story of Chris Gardner’s journey from homelessness to success against all odds. It’s a story of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one’s dreams that will leave you feeling motivated and uplifted.
As for an ad campaign, I am perhaps biased but I would highly recommend checking out ‘Fitsters of FITPASS.’ It’s a collection of eight brand films focused on promoting the concept of ‘Your Fitness Your Way,’ an approach towards fitness and wellness. The series redefines traditional fitness norms, emphasising that fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all, needn’t be expensive, and shouldn’t be rigid.
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