LIFESTYLE
A peek into the life of Asanka de Mel
UNPLUGGED
IN CONVERSATION WITH NATALIE SENEVIRATNE
What do you do at the beginning of your day that sets the tone for work?
Lately, I’m on a dual mission: to build LOVI into a world-class fashion brand and realise the development vision I set out in the book ‘A Speech to Sri Lanka for 2048.’
Generally, I wake up and get to work immediately. To start with a clear head, I like to meditate, even if it is only for a few minutes – ideally, I’ll also take a brisk walk outside.
Which personal habit or routine has had the greatest impact on your professional life?
Constant learning through books and mentors.
How do you maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and a demanding work schedule?
Loving what you do makes the balance natural.
If you had a month to unplug anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go and what would you do there?
It’s paradise right here at home. Ulpotha, Kandalama or somewhere amid the lakes to read, eat healthier and reset in nature.
On challenging days, what helps you reset your mind and regain clarity?
Spending time with my kids always puts things in perspective – and short naps, particularly when I’m designing.
What’s been the defining moment in your leadership journey so far?
There are many lessons I have learned over the years but founding LOVI has given me the opportunity to put them into practice. What was once theory or secondhand experience is now real.
Where do you draw inspiration from beyond the world of business?
From people, nature and family. From love and from life.
One facet of leadership you’re consciously trying to improve…
Patience – as a founder, you want to grow at 300 percent and take your team with you.
If you could capture the essence of your leadership style in a short phrase, what would it be?
Long-term vision – I’m driven by a vision of what we can accomplish together.
There’s a thought from Bill Gates that I live by: people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can accomplish in a decade. I also love the phrase ‘impossible is nothing,’ by Muhammad Ali.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a leader?
I want Sri Lankans to think big – there’s nothing really holding us back but ourselves.
What book, podcast or piece of content has influenced you recently – and why did it resonate with you?
Kevin O’Leary tells a story of how Apple cofounder Steve Jobs used signal versus noise clarity as a tool to organise his day. Jobs kept the three things he had to get done each day front and centre, even in the face of other important matters.
If you could give your younger self one meaningful piece of advice, what would it be?
It gets better!
An unconventional leadership insight you’ve learnt that others may find surprising…
Testing. Netflix cofounder Marc Randolph says that coming up with ideas is easy but true entrepreneurial skill lies in how quickly, cheaply and cleverly you can test them, before investing your time and money.
What personal value or principle do you refuse to compromise?
My steadfast belief is that Sri Lanka can become a developed country with a per capita GDP of US$ 40,000 by 2048.
How do you spend your ideal weekend when you’re not working?
At Viharamahadevi Park with my boys to run around.
What’s the most memorable travel or life experience that has shaped the way you see the world?
My time in Silicon Valley and the opportunity to learn from so many of the great entrepreneurs of our generation.
Barack Obama, Kumar Sangakkara and Roger Federer inspire me because of the positive way they have approached adversity
If someone shadowed you for a day, which one of your routines would surprise him or her?
How hands-on I am, particularly with design. The level of detail involved in the design work requires it.
And what is the most underrated skill that today’s leaders should cultivate?
Stamina. Perseverance. The long game. Particularly in entrepreneurial ventures, it’s the ability to stay in the game long enough for market opportunities to catch up.
Name someone outside your sector whom you admire – and why?
Barack Obama, Kumar Sangakkara and Roger Federer inspire me because of the positive way they have approached adversity, always taking the high road while accomplishing so much.
A common misconception people have about leaders at your level…
That we’ve got it all figured out. It’s a constant process of improvement.
Loving what you do makes the balance natural
Looking ahead, what excites you the most about the next phase of your life and career?
Ten years ago, LOVI was a dream. Five years ago, my vision for Sri Lanka in 2048 was a dream. Today, both dreams feel more attainable with solid foundations laid and I can’t wait to see them bear fruit.
Asanka de Mel is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LOVI Ceylon.
