Thrive Global India: What’s the first thing you do when you get out of bed?
Amit Mehra: I do gratitude exercise by recalling, and sometimes writing down all the things I am grateful for starting from family, friends, health, experiences, lifestyle, communities, impact, track record, etc. I also practice mindfulness by recalling my purpose and vision for my life. Most days, I begin my day with meditation and prayers.
TGI: How do you unplug and recharge?
AM: I do various breathing exercises and make time for running. Also, nothing energises me more than conversing with family and friends. These work best for me.
TGI: What’s your favourite well-being tip?
AM: Breathing deeply and consciously—as often as you can.
TGI: Tell us about your relationship with your phone.
AM: It’s very good generally. I schedule time during my day to respond to Whatsapp, Telegram and e-mails—although not always succeeding, but working on it. Usually, I don’t take any unscheduled phone calls unless from family and close friends and prefer returning them in chunks during my allotted time.
TGI: How do you deal with negativity on social media?
AM: I am not active on it, for example, I have used Facebook twice in the last 10 months. I have my communities on Whatsapp and Telegram, and they are all constructive and very diverse.
TGI: What would you do on an ideal day?
AM: Read a book, do some yoga, spend time with family and friends. I would also like to explore a new place with family.
TGI: How do you incorporate well-being into your daily life?
AM: Being grateful and being mindful for the most part. I ensure that I stay connected with my family and close friends—virtually or in person. Additionally, I make time for physical, mental and spiritual engagement as often as I can in a week.
TGI: What benefit do these habits have on your ability to perform?
Let’s say that my productivity and mental well-being drop by 50 per cent if I don’t follow these practises due to a change or when I’m travelling.
TGI: When was the last time you felt burned out?
AM: Towards the last few quarters of running Reuters Market Light/RML as the CEO (and its founder). After completing a major reorganisation in the last few quarters I then decided to leave the firm as soon as I ensured its growth and impact to continue beyond me.