Mindset

Subterms

    Latest story

    150 Shares

    How I got my job as… CEO of a leading automotive company

    by

    Emirates Man

    by Camille Macawili
    30 seconds ago

    This week, Emirates Man speaks to Dr. Hamid Haqparwar, CEO of AGMC (Arabian Gulf Mechanical Centre) – a leading the automotive company serving as the exclusive importer for BMW Group brands including BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce in Dubai, Sharjah, and Northern Emirates.
    Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to incredible entrepreneurs, and businessmen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    With decades of experience with BMW, Here, Dr. Haqparwar shares with Emirates Man his early journey in the field and shares an insight of his work mindset that reinforces the brand’s position as a premiere automotive retailer in the region.

    What was your favourite subject at school?
    My favourite subjects in school were math and geography.
    What was your first job?
    My first job was BMW of course. I was responsible for establishing new markets for the BMW Group
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    Like many people, it was for my work. I was relocated here from Germany, almost 18 years ago for BMW Group.
    What inspired you to enter the automobile space?
    My father. He worked in the automotive field as a used car trader. It was from him that I developed the passion for the automotive space, and I learned the tricks of the trade from him.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    The main element in my role is leading a great team that have a shared drive for success. I always do my best to inspire them to be their best, not only as part of the team at AGMC, but in their personal lives as well. As a CEO, I can’t do everything and be everywhere, so it’s crucial that I can rely on my team.

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    I wake up early and start my day in the gym, either by running or doing weights. From there, I head to the office where I start off with emails and then go from meeting to meeting.
    I have an open-door policy. Hence, anyone can come in and discuss any topics or issues they might be facing, so I never know how my day will evolve. If I don’t have any evening work responsibilities like events of launches, I get home around 7pm and am exhausted!
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    Always stay calm. There is always a solution to any problem in the business, and its much easier to think in a state of calm. Sooner or later, you will find it.
    And what is the worst?
    Great question. Nobody has ever asked me this. I would say that to be perfect in what you do. No one and nothing can be perfect in life. There are always risks to be taken, and some have good outcomes and some bad – but there’s always a learning.
    Tell us more about the key highlights for AGMC in Dubai and the Northern Emirates for 2025.
    So far everything is running smoothly and we recently launched a new showroom in Sharjah to better serve our customers in the Northern Emirates. We are growing our business and Dubai has been very supportive in fueling our ambitions.

    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    I think the COVID period was the biggest challenge and I guess this was for everyone.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Take risks. Go where no one else is thinking of going. Take on the projects that are difficult. Only by doing this, will you develop yourself and grow.
    What are your goals for the future?
    Personally, to have a relaxed life.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

    More stories

    • 13 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Resilience

      by

      In March’s – The Resilience Issue, we ask six women of influence in the UAE to share the best advice on being resilient in tough times.

      Khadija Al Bastaki
      SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT (D3), PART OF TECOM GROUP PJSC
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Resilience is not solely a show of strength but one of agility and creative thinking. Your willingness to adapt to new situations, particularly with a positive, solution-oriented attitude, will ensure that every outcome is in your favour. Make your plans, but gift yourself the freedom of flexibility. This is the outlook I bring to Dubai Design District (d3). Our community and industry evolve so rapidly that we always need to keep evaluating our journey and making necessary adjustments.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      Our extraordinary creative community at d3 is resilience exemplified. From business leaders propelling Dubai’s creative economy and entrepreneurs driving innovation to professionals and students shaping the future of design, each member of our community demonstrates outstanding fortitude and foresight that are putting our city on the global creative map. I’m always in awe of their passion and can-do attitude, and this is resilience to me.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      In challenging times, I lean on my communities. I find power and resilience in my valued relationships, whether those we’ve nurtured in d3, which are a constant source of inspiration and insight, my female networks that empower and uplift me, or my family, who are a pillar of strength.

      Her Highness Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum bin Rashid AlMaktoum
      FOUNDER – TASHKEEL STUDIO AND GERBOU RESTAURANT
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Resilience is about trusting the process. It’s understanding that challenges are not roadblocks, but part of the journey. The best advice I can give is to stay adaptable, embrace change, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward with purpose. Re- silience is built in the quiet moments, in the discipline of showing up even when the out- come is uncertain. Creativity, whether in art, design, or food, demands resilience because it thrives on evolution. The key is to remain open to growth, to listen, and to refine without losing sight of why you started.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      I find resilience in the artisans, the makers, the creatives who dedicate themselves to their craft despite uncertainty. Whether it’s a designer working with raw materials, a chef refining a dish, or an artist shaping an idea, resilience is embedded in the process. It’s about persistence, about staying committed even when the path isn’t clear.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      Resilience, for me, comes from grounding myself in purpose. In difficult times, I return to the core of what I do, whether it’s through the design work at Tashkeel or the culinary storytelling at Gerbou. Surrounding myself with a community of thinkers, makers, and doers reminds me that resilience isn’t about enduring alone; it’s about building something meaningful together.

      Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi
      PRESIDENT – AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF SHARJAH
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Resilience is about endurance, not just enthusiasm. It’s easy to start strong, but the real test is whether you can keep going when things get tough. Challenges aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities to grow, adapt, and discover your true strength. My advice? Own your story. That means accepting the highs and the lows, the successes and the setbacks, without letting any single moment define you. Resilience comes from recognising that challenges are chapters, not the whole book. When you take ownership of your journey, its lessons, struggles, and growth, you build the strength to keep moving forward, no matter what.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi is a powerful role model of resilience for me. He faced immense challenges at every step while pursuing his vision, yet his determination never wavered. Sharjah’s global reputation as a cultural center did not emerge overnight. He built it through years of dedication, perseverance, and tireless effort–brick by brick, event by event, one university and institution at a time. Every time I face a challenge, I think about his journey, reminding myself that resilience is about persistence, vision, and the courage to keep moving forward.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      Knowing my purpose helps me stay the course during rough patches. In difficult times, I focus on what I can control: my mindset, my response, and my next step forward. Obstacles aren’t the end of the road. They’re part of the journey. Flexibility is key. Sometimes resilience means standing firm. Other times it means adapting and finding a new way forward. It’s also about connection. Having the right people around you, those who remind you of your strength when you start to doubt yourself.

      Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi
      DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE SHARJAH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH (SIFF)
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges but embracing them as part of growth. The best advice I can give is to cultivate adaptability – things rarely go as planned, but if you stay open to change, you’ll find new paths forward. Build a strong support network, take care of your well-being, and develop a sense of purpose. In my work with children and youth, I see firsthand how creativity fosters resilience. Storytelling, whether through film or other forms, allows young people to process experiences, reimagine possibilities, and find their own voices.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      Young filmmakers inspire me daily with their resilience. Many face personal struggles, limited resources, or societal barriers, yet they channel their stories into powerful films. I’ve seen youth use filmmaking to navigate grief, advocate for change, and express joy despite adversity. Their ability to transform challenges into art is a testament to human strength.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      I remind myself why I do what I do–working with young people and storytelling is deeply meaningful to me. I also lean on community, whether through my team, peers, or the young creatives I support. Taking a step back, engaging in something creative, or simply finding moments of stillness helps me regain perspective. Resilience isn’t about pushing through alone – it’s about finding ways to recharge and move forward with purpose.
      Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi
      CHAIRPERSON – SHARJAH BUSINESS WOMEN COUNCIL (SBWC)
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Resilience is about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. The best advice I can give is to remain adaptable and trust in your ability to overcome obstacles. Every setback is a lesson, and persistence is key to moving forward. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and always keep your long-term vision in mind.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      I am deeply inspired by women entrepreneurs who transform challenges into successes. Their ability to innovate, persevere, and lead with confidence is a testament to true resilience. In the UAE, we see remarkable women who balance business, family, and personal aspirations while contributing to the economy. Their unwavering determination is what drives progress.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      During challenging times, I remind myself of the purpose behind my work. Staying focused on the bigger picture helps me navigate difficulties with clarity and determination. I also believe in continuous learning–seeking knowledge, advice, and new perspectives strengthens resilience. Most importantly, resilience comes from self-belief and the willingness to adapt. Challenges may test us, but they also refine our strength.

      Asma Hilal Lootah
      FOUNDER – THE HUNDRED WELLNESS CENTRE
      What advice would you give on cultivating resilience?
      Life can often throw curve balls at you, and it is not always easy to be strong and resilient. Personally, however, whenever I face challenges, I remind myself that God is on my side. No matter how difficult life seems to be, I always remind myself that God has got my back and that the challenges I face are because He’s trying to teach me something, if I just listen carefully to hear what Oprah Winfrey calls “the life whisperers”. My favourite affirmation is from Louise Hay. It is “Everything is working out for my highest good and out of this experience only good will come.” I pray a lot during difficult times, and this coupled with my affirmation ensures I stay strong and am steadfast in my belief that I will emerge from any negative experience not only stronger but with something good to show for it.
      Who to you displays great resilience?
      The women of the UAE, both past and present. Our mothers and grandmothers lived in very hard conditions before the union and before the economy experienced any sort of boom. They got married at a very young age, raised a lot of children alone without lots of help, and were never encouraged to express how they feel. Few had the chance to go to formal schools and even fewer knew how to read or write. They are the embodiment or resilience in my eyes. Indeed, I salute them and thank them for building great generations of strong men and women.
      How do you tap into resilience during challenging times?
      I reframe the way I think about challenging situations but first I allow myself to feel all the feelings I want to feel. Then I remind myself that I am safe and that this shall pass. Life has proven to me time and time again that everything works out – and in many cases even better – than I imagined. So, I remind myself how life unfolded for me thus far and pray and speak my affirmation. I also always ask myself how I can take this tough time and turn it into an opportunity for growth.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      March’s – The Resilience Issue – Download Now 
      Images: Supplied More

    • 188 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Global Keynote Speaker & Author on how a humanized approach can bring a positive change

      by

      Life

      by Camille Macawili
      14 seconds ago

      Mariam Farag, Global Keynote Speaker and Author, has built a business based on shifting the perspective of how companies and individuals talk about their brand.
      Here, Farag puts pen to paper and shares how a humanized and purpose-led approach can affect a positive change in her book, ‘Humanize Your Brand: Stand Out in a Busy Digital World’.
      What inspired you to write a book, Humanize Your Brand: Stand Out in a Busy Digital World – was it a leap of faith?
      For years, I saw how brands struggled to create genuine connections in a world that’s increasingly digital. The idea of humanizing brands had been growing in- side me, but deciding to write the book was a leap of faith. It was my way of stepping out of my comfort zone and putting my beliefs into action – sharing my story and insights so others could connect more authentically with their audiences.
      In your book, you discuss taking on a holistic approach to building meaningful connections, online and offline – can you expand on this? And who can benefit from this?
      A holistic approach means seeing the bigger picture – your audience isn’t just a statistic; they’re real people with emotions, values, and unique stories. Whether you’re communicating online or offline, it’s about creating experiences that feel genuine and personal. Online, this could mean sharing relatable stories or engaging meaningfully with your audience. Offline, it’s about showing up as your authentic self and building relationships based on trust. This approach is valuable for everyone – from entrepreneurs and corporate leaders to freelancers and individuals. Whether you’re building a brand, a business, or just meaningful relationships, it’s about leading with authenticity and connection.
      Why is finding your own personal voice so important in business and in life – and how can one find this?
      Your personal voice is your unique identity – it’s what sets you apart in a world full of noise. In business, it builds trust and relatability. In life, it’s how you express your values and beliefs. To find your voice, you need to embrace your story – every success, failure, and lesson that makes you who you are. Reflect on what you stand for, and give yourself permission to show up authentically, even if it feels vulnerable. It’s not about perfection; it’s about being real.
      What advice can you give to those who are afraid of putting themselves out there, and how is this relevant to your life?
      Start small. You don’t have to share everything all at once. Begin by sharing what you’re comfortable with – something that feels meaningful to you. For me, putting myself out there felt intimidating at first, especially sharing vulnerable moments. But I learned that when I opened up, people connected with me on a deeper level. The key is to focus on your purpose and remember that your story can inspire and help others. Don’t aim for perfection; aim for connection.
      What activities or tools can help support celebrating our own successes and bring out their best self?
      Celebrating your successes doesn’t have to be grand – it’s about acknowledgment. I suggest creating a “success jar,” where you jot down your wins throughout the year, no matter how small. Journaling is another powerful tool to reflect on what you’ve achieved and how it made you feel. Sharing accomplishments with people who support and uplift you can also amplify the joy. For me, gratitude plays a huge role – taking a moment to pause, say “I did this,” and appreciating the journey helps me see my growth. These small habits fuel confidence and remind you of your unique strengths.

      “I believe that profit and purpose can coexist. The sweet spot lies in choosing opportunities that align with your mission and communicating authentically”

      How do you balance being commercial while staying true to your values?
      It starts with clarity – knowing your core values and sticking to them. Whether it’s me as an individual or a brand, I always ask, “Does this align with my purpose? Is it creating genuine value?” For brands, balancing commercial success and authenticity means integrating purpose into every decision. For example, brands that embrace sustainability or social impact do so not because it’s trendy, but because it aligns with their values. It’s also about transparency and consistency – audiences notice when your actions don’t align with your words. I believe that profit and purpose can coexist. The sweet spot lies in choosing opportunities that align with your mission and communicating authentically. When your audience sees that alignment, you build trust, which is the foundation of both meaningful connections and long-term commercial success.
      What are some of your personal daily rituals that help you with self-expression and self-examination?
      I start my mornings with intention-setting – it’s a simple practice that keeps me focused and mindful. Journaling is my go-to tool for self-expression; it helps me unpack my thoughts, reflect on my feelings, and clarify my goals. I also dedicate time to learning, whether through books, podcasts, or exploring new perspectives – it fuels my creativity and growth. Movement, like Pilates or even a walk-in nature, helps me reconnect with my body and find clarity. These rituals may seem small, but they create space for self-reflection and allow me to express myself authentically.
      How do you manage being a thought leader in such an effortless way?
      The key is authenticity – I don’t try to be perfect; I focus on being real. Social media can feel overwhelming if you approach it as a performance, so I approach it as a conversation. I share what I believe in, what inspires me, and what I think can spark meaningful dialogue. Thought leadership isn’t about being flawless; it’s about being consistent, relatable, and intentional. I also make it a point to listen to and engage with my audience. Effortlessness comes from alignment – when you’re sharing ideas that reflect your values, it feels natural.
      You’ve had an incredible career journey so far. Was there a moment you considered giving up, and where did you get the drive to stay positive and continue through your challenges?
      Yes, there were moments when giving up felt like the easiest option, especially during tough times like 2020. I was overwhelmed by personal and professional setbacks and doubted whether I could keep going. In those moments, I leaned on my support system – my family, friends, and mentors – who reminded me of my purpose. I also gave myself permission to rest and reflect without guilt. The drive to continue came from focusing on the bigger picture and recognising that challenges are temporary. Each obstacle shaped me into a stronger and more compassionate person, and I’m grateful for the lessons they brought.
      This is The Optimism Issue – how do you stay optimistic?
      Optimism, for me, is a daily choice. It’s not about ignoring struggles but re-framing them as opportunities to grow. I practise gratitude – it helps me focus on the positive, even in the smallest things. I also surround myself with forward-thinking, supportive people who inspire me to keep going. Staying connected to my purpose is another anchor – knowing that my work has meaning keeps me motivated. Finally, I remind myself that every setback is temporary and that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Optimism is believing in what’s possible, even when the path ahead isn’t clear.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      January’s – The Optimism Issue – Download Now 
      Image: Instagram @mariamfaragofficial More

    • 75 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      January’s The Optimism Issue with VAARA

      by

      Life

      by Amy Sessions
      56 mins ago

      Photographer: Olga MiljkoStyling: Alexandra BelousMakeup: Victoria BondHair: Miguel Perez
      Welcome to The Optimism Issue.
      For January’s cover, we partnered with VAARA, founded by Tatiana Korsakova, which is set to reimagine the concept of athleisure. We discuss entrepreneurship, facing risks, and where she’s taking the brand next in Strength & Substance.
      In this issue, you will find everything to enable you to kick off the New Year with confidence and positivity, from mindset to movement and goal setting to ensure you achieve all you wish for in the year ahead. With a laser focus on all things wellness related as you might expect for January, we speak to globally renowned speaker, founder of RTT and best-selling author, Marisa Peer, who tells us how to train our minds to stay positive in Training Your Mind.
      “We’ve Got this.”

      We discover calming sound healing sessions to keep us feeling grounded in Frequency Magic and Emirati author, poet and artist Shamma Albastaki shares her thoughts in A Positive Voice.
      Everything starts with your thoughts. This is your year, we’ve got this!
      The Hero Buys
      Lululemon

      Asymmetric stretch sports bra – A/B Dhs 214. Shop from NET-A-PORTER
      Lululemon

      Align high-rise leggings – 25″ Dhs 363. Shop from NET-A-PORTER
      Norma Kamali

      Cropped asymmetric stretch-cotton jersey t-shirt Dhs580. Shop at NET-A-PORTER

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      January’s – The Optimsm Issue – Download Now  More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Roxie Nafousi on how trusting your gut can transform your life

      by

      Roxie Nafousi, inspirational speaker and self-development coach talks to us about the value of trusting your gut and how manifesting can transform your life.
      What does your morning routine look like?
      My morning routine is all about setting myself up in the best possible way — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I wake up early (but naturally, I haven’t used an alarm in years!), and the first thing I do is repeat positive affirmations. This is when my subconscious is most susceptible, so I take advantage of that moment to instil empowering thoughts. Then, I make myself a cup of coffee and enjoy it in peace. I also find 5-10 minutes to meditate, which helps me centre myself and set my intentions for the day. This routine isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a space where I feel aligned and ready for whatever comes.

      Did you always know you would be entrepreneurial, and what was the catalyst for this?
      Honestly, I don’t think I always knew it would look like this. But I did always know I wanted to do something where I could positively impact people. I definitely think my entrepreneurial spirit comes from my dad – watching him navigate come from nothing was so inspiring to me, and he was teaching me about business from when I was just kid. The catalyst was really when I began to understand the power of my own mindset – realising that my thoughts were shaping my reality. I saw how stepping into my authentic self-allowed me to create a life I wanted, rather than the one I thought I ‘should’ live. That realisation led me down a path of taking risks, trusting my intuition, and embracing my entrepreneurial spirit.
      Have you always trusted your gut?
      No, trusting my gut wasn’t always my natural state. In my early years, I second-guessed myself a lot. I remember times when fear or shame spoke louder than my intuition. But every time I ignored my gut, I felt the misalignment deeply. Over time, I realised that my intuition was my most honest guide. Trusting it has taken practice, especially when it’s led me down paths that others didn’t always understand. Now, it’s a non-negotiable – my gut is my compass.
      It was a bold move to write a book — did you already have connections in the publishing world, or was it a leap of faith?
      It was absolutely a leap of faith. When I decided to write MANIFEST, I didn’t have any connections in the publishing world, but I knew I had a message that needed to be shared. I believed in the value of what I wanted to say, and I trusted that if I put my heart and soul into it, it would help whoever was meant to read it. It was about staying open and not letting my own doubts get in the way.

      You’re now speaking to hundreds at your events – were you nervous before your first event of this size, and how did the public speaking start?
      I was definitely nervous before my first big event. I’d done smaller talks and workshops but stepping onto a stage with hundreds of people watching was something else entirely. The nerves were there, but they were mixed with excitement. I hosted my first workshop in November 2019, and it’s been incredible to watch them grow – for me it’s my favourite part of my job. Even if I’m having a tough day, getting on stage brings me alive because I love feeling the energy of everyone in the room.
      What is the most important thing you’ve manifested?
      The most important thing I’ve manifested is my confidence. I’ve created a life that aligns with who I truly am and has allowed me to be proud of the person I am, and that’s been the greatest gift of all. Everything else – the career, the relationships, the opportunities – they all came from first finding and manifesting my own self-acceptance and authenticity. It’s a continuous journey but manifesting that core sense of self is the foundation for everything else.
      What supports our ability to manifest?
      Belief and alignment are key. You need to truly believe that what you desire is possible, and you need to act in a way that aligns with that belief. It’s about being clear on what you want, taking inspired action, and letting go of any attachment to the outcome. Self-worth plays a huge role as well – you need to believe that you’re deserving of what you’re manifesting.
      What hinders our ability to manifest?
      Doubt and fear are the biggest barriers. Self-sabotage, limiting beliefs, and an unwillingness to step out of your comfort zone can all hinder manifestation. When we hold on to beliefs that say we’re not good enough or that it’s not possible for us, we block the flow. It’s crucial to identify those limiting beliefs and replace them with ones that serve us. Manifesting requires courage – the courage to think big, act big, and trust the process.
      You highlight turning jealousy into inspiration. Where does jealousy come from, and have you ever experienced this from your circle as you became more successful?
      Jealousy often comes from a feeling of lacking – like there’s not enough to go around, or like someone else’s success highlights something we feel we’re missing. I’ve definitely felt jealousy in the past, and I’ve also felt it from others. It’s human, but what matters is how we choose to respond to it. Instead of letting it fester, I use it as a signpost. It’s a reminder of what I value and what I desire for myself. When we see jealousy as a form of inspiration, it becomes a motivator instead of a barrier.
      You’ve also transformed your body – did you change your approach to wellness with your mindset?
      Absolutely. My physical transformation wasn’t just about changing how I looked – it was about aligning my body with how I wanted to feel. I realised that wellness isn’t about punishment or fitting into a specific mould; it’s about self-love, movement that brings joy, and nourishing myself from a place of care. Shifting my mindset from restriction to love made all the difference.
      How do you balance being commercial while staying true to yourself?
      For me, it’s all about authenticity. I make sure that whatever I do is in alignment with my values and who I am. When an opportunity comes up, I ask myself: Does this feel right? Is this in line with my message and the life I want to create? I’ve learned that the truer I am to myself, the more successful I’ve been. People resonate with authenticity, and when you’re genuine, everything flows naturally – even the commercial aspects.

      Social media is part of the mainstream. How do you manage to do this in such an effortless way?
      It hasn’t always felt effortless! I think what helps is being real – not just sharing the highlight reel but also the struggles, the lessons, and the growth. I make a point to connect, not just broadcast. My audience feels like a community to me, and that’s what makes it special. I try to remember that social media is a tool – it’s about using it with intention, sharing from a place of value, and not letting it define my worth.
      What advice would you give to someone wanting to bring their best self to the surface?
      Start by getting honest with yourself. Who are you when no one is watching? What do you truly value? Bringing your best self forward is about removing the layers of what you think you should be and stepping into who you are, unapologetically. Embrace your uniqueness, be willing to get uncomfortable, and trust that you are enough just as you are. And remember – your best self isn’t a final destination, it’s a lifelong journey.
      What does being bold mean to you, and who for you is bold and brave?
      Being bold is about being true to yourself, even when it’s not easy. It’s about taking risks, choosing authenticity over comfort, and going after what you want, despite the fear. To me, boldness is in the everyday actions – the decisions that align us with our truest selves. My sister, Rana, is one of the boldest people I know. She shows up for her community, she’s fiercely herself, and she’s not afraid to be vulnerable. That, to me, is the ultimate form of bravery.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How ultrarunner William Goodge ran across the US in 55 days

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Ultrarunner William Goodge discusses completing the 3,076-mile journey from Huntington Beach, Los Angeles to Central Park, New York and what kind of mindset it takes to achieve the extraordinary.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I like to wake up and replenish my electrolytes and get ahead on hydration straight away by using a couple of Humantra sachets with water. I wake up before sunrise so have to leave any exposure to later, but wherever I am I’ll put on my favourite songs of the moment and get ready to go and do my first training session of the day. The gym or out for a run.
      Talk us through your background.
      I am from a small town in the UK called Ampthill, about an hour north of London.I grew up playing every sport I could, ironically one of the only ones I didn’t like too much was running long distance! I had an amazing but somewhat normal upbringing, when school was over I decided to go travelling to Thailand and Australia instead of going to University. When I got back, my sport was rugby and I ended up playing semi-professionally. This was my life until I found running.

      You completed the 3,076-mile journey in 55 days, what mindset practice helped you through this?
      I would always ask myself when things got tough “can I take another step?”. A very simple question and a very simple act to say yes and do it. There is rarely a moment in life, no matter how tough it is, that you can’t make forward progress.
      During the journey you powerwalked for 12 hours straight after running for two weeks – tell us more.
      This was a day in Oklahoma, the weather had changed quite drastically to gale force winds and rain blowing directly in my face. It was a conscious decision for me that trying to run through that would take a lot more effort. I worked it out mathematically that if I power walked at 4mph I would get to 50 miles in just over 12 hours. This meant my usual stops every 6 miles would become walk throughs. My crew would have everything ready, as they always did, and would walk with me to change my bottles and give me food. I skipped my usual midday nap and just powered through. There was some beauty in the misery and I did it for three days total.
      Your radical change of mindset got you through the experience – what was the challenge and how did you overcome it?
      It’s very hard to look at the whole of America, or 3000 plus miles and understand what that is going to take. The biggest challenge for me was pushing so hard every day and knowing I was only a fraction of the way there. It was too big to think about so I hadto pull back from the bigger picture and concentrate on the day at hand, or the next 6 miles. We got into a great routine so things were running like clockwork, this gives you confidence. I was also always ahead of my initial goal to finish in 64 days, so there was an element of competitiveness with myself of just how much quicker I could finish. You have a lot of time out there on your own to think, so creating reasons to go harder were always creeping up on me. The motivation to embark on this expedition came from a deeply personal place – tell us more. My reason for getting into extreme running was through the untimely death of my mum, Amanda. Seeing someone fight for their life and show much strength gives me a perception of ignorance to my own suffering which could be much worse. I realised very early on after her death, that as a 23-year-old I had every excuse to wave the white flag and give up on life for some time. I could have thrown some of my life away and everyone would have allowed me freedom because they knew what I was going through. But I simply couldn’t. I had to show the world just how strong my mum was by doing something to make it mean something more than a sad story. I’m a big believer now that emotions equals energy. Heightened emotion like anger, pain, even incredible joy can be channeled into a physical output. Through this we have raised over £250,000 for charities, which I am incredibly proud of and I know mymum would be too. It all came from her.
      During this journey, elaborate on what a day in the life of William Goodge looked like?
      Wake up: before sunrise, this changed across the country as we crossed four time zones. I would have a bowl of cereal and a coffee, I liked starting the day light and fuelling across the day. My crew would take off and go approximately 6 miles ahead for each stop. The first two stops I would consume a high kcal smoothie with things like protein powder, nut butters and frozen fruit and vegetables alongside pastries. Stop 3 was my favourite stop because Chef Pete would have made me a breakfast sandwich, some meat and egg in some kind of bread. After that it would change a bit to fruit, high salt items like crisps and pretzels, anything I fancied. The further east we got the more built up the areas got so I would also add in a coffee stop. This would usually be a gas station. Not the best coffee but I really enjoyed having a moment to go inside and do something ‘normal’ for a second before leaving to walk with my coffee. At mile 30 it would usually be a big lunch and nap time for 40 minutes in my bed inside a crew vehicle. I used an app on my phone called NuCalm that automatically puts you into a nap-like state through music in headphones and wearing a sleep mask. I would also put on compression boots so I could increase bloodflow to my legs and move around any inflammation. When I woke up Pete or Robbie would bring me a big lunch. Usually something from dinner the day before like a bean and meat chilli or a sandwich, avocado on the side, some rice. Then, it’s back out the door. 30 to 55 miles – this was when the crew members would usually join me. Pete and Robbie are amazing runners themselves, so they would help break up the boredom by coming out with me, these were my favourite moments. Plenty of laughs and most of our talks were about what we would do when we finished! The same stop plan, every six miles for refuelling. Once the running was finished I would clock my watch and get back to the main camper van to shower, change and eat a big Chef Pete dinner. We tried to make this process quick so I could sleep as much as possible, but it was never rushed. I really loved the moments of eating dinner with the crew. It was a normal moment in an otherwise chaotic time. I might sacrifice 20 minutes of sleep, but for my happiness it was essential.

      What’s your fitness mantra?
      What is the limit? It is an ever moving target as once you think you have found it, it’s moved again. It’s good to have something to chase, remainunsatisfied.
      What advice would you give to your younger self?
      Everything is going to be okay. Enjoy the moments now, show appreciation to the ones you love. You’re in for a hell of a ride, but you have the strength to see it all through. It’s going to be exciting!
      This is The Emirates Man Spring/Summer Issue – how would you best describe your style?
      I live in the fashion and running world, which isn’t usual. I use both to express myself equally, whilst running I’ll be in 247 Represent or Vuori. Outside of that my style is diverse, I couldn’t describe it in a sentence as it takes many forms. I have a particular passion for sunglasses and will be releasing my own brand later this spring / early summer. It occupies both worlds, glasses you can wear to a fashion event or dinner or the running track. Function plus Fashion. It’s called RIZK.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More