Flying high: Vinita Surana

I feel like being a role model for the budding entrepreneurs, the serious professionals, the young women achievers, I have a lot of responsibility, I need to choose well and always be mindful so that I can inspire the people who look up to me,” said Vinita Surana, executive director of ‘Surana Group of Companies’ where she manages business development, expansion strategy and general management.

She is a serial entrepreneur, classical dancer, motivational speaker, management specialist, yoga enthusiast, negotiation and strategy expert and start up coach. She is currently Chairperson of FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO).  

Excerpts: 

Being an expert in the fields that you choose to be. How do you manage yourself to fit into each one of them?
Every day is a new day and I learn so much on the job every day. I believe that, the attitude is to bring your best self to each task and if you get it right, it’s a great win; if you don’t then even better because you are learning so much.  I push myself where I can bridge the gap between a life I am living to a life of my greatest dreams. I want to never stop achieving and being a better version of myself.

You have travelled to more than 5o destinations worldwide. Share your experience? 
Each country, each trip, each city is like reading a new book; every page is different, every story leaves an impact on you. Travel is great way to learn about the world, expand your vision on things but most importantly to learn so much more about yourself. You know what you like, what you don’t, each adventure is a growing curve and as much as I am exploring a place, an activity, I think I am exploring myself.

You have won many accolades, how does that make you feel?
It’s nice to receive an award or reward. I feel it’s the universe telling you, that you are doing something right. Every award is special, every time I called to give a speech, be a chief guest or be a brand ambassador for a brand that believe in me and my work, I feel elated and gratified.

How do you manage personal and professional life?
This is very important; work life balance is the key to moving forward. even if one is out of order the other thing suffers. I like to carve out time for my family on weekends and friends in the evenings. I really value the people in my life. When I am at work, I am unstoppable, very focused and dedicated.

What was more challenging in your professional life?
Being a woman, it gets more challenging  than the usual as India is still a patriarchal society and women are still the second gender. Sometimes its demotivating but I have learnt to make this as fuel to my fire and with every challenge thrown at me, I become even more stronger at the other end of it.