Leena Parwani

How do you typically start your workday?
On my way to work, I listen to motivational speakers, which is why I am always charged up before the first meeting of the day. When I reach work, I give myself five minutes to take a deep breath and then list down my priorities for the day, ensuring that at least three major tasks are accomplished by the end of the day. I am a firm believer in representing oneself as a brand. The first person you must represent each morning is yourself, and I like to do justice to that.
Describe your work in a sentence.
 I am helping you buy a little bit of tomorrow - today.
What is your #1 personal principle at work?
"Grow at work and find a better way, every day." Along with a to-do list of the day, we maintain a 'to-learn' list, where my team is encouraged to read everyday for 30 minutes or listen to audio books. I also encourage them to socialise with people who have their mind set on continued growth, because their success stories will inspire the team.
In your workday, what is the one thing you cannot do without?
That would be two things actually: coffee and my laptop.
Most challenging project to date?
To date, each case I have dealt with has been complicated - but overcoming challenges keeps me driven. There was an instance where I had to cover for a cancer survivor and had to go through all the past reports to shop for his cover in the market. It was perplexing but we got it done and it was a great learning experience.
Who is your role model as the perfect professional?
I look to different leaders for different qualities: those who are passionate, those who are motivators, visionaries, contributors to the community, etc. Nelson Mandela, Donald Trump and Indira Gandhi are some names that I look up to. However, I am known to be highly self-motivated and happy to just be me. In other words, one should not only learn from others' achievements but also design one's own path.
Your favourite indulgence when you need a break from work?
I grab a coffee and get on a call with my seven-year-old son for a few minutes. Conversations with him are always light-hearted, yet intelligent. Other times, I like to listen to soothing music and relax.
What is your greatest dream, professionally?
Aside from being a super achiever with a successful business model, creating awareness for financial security is my main goal today, as I believe it will make the world a better place to live in.
As told to Karen Ann Monsy