LIFESTYLE
A peek into the life of Onalie Dissanayake
UNPLUGGED
In conversation with Natalie Seneviratne
What do you do at the beginning of your day that sets the tone before work begins?
I meditate every morning as I wake up. It helps me gather my thoughts, ground my emotions and set an intentional tone for the day ahead.
Which personal habit or routine has had the greatest impact on your professional life?
Punctuality and meeting deadlines: respecting time – both mine and others’ – has shaped my credibility as a professional; it builds trust, sets standards within teams and ensures that the momentum is never lost. Consistency of this habit has quietly but powerfully influenced how I lead.
How do you maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and a demanding work schedule?
Being a career mom of three is tough but I prioritise well – I’m always there for my children while making time for my hobbies and activities.
If you had one month to unplug anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go and what would you do there?
Sri Lanka – there are many beautiful places I haven’t seen yet and I want to explore them.
What has been the defining moment in your leadership journey so far?
Realising that my role is to inspire and lead; not merely chase key performance indicators (KPIs). We get carried away by numbers; but numbers can be achieved when people feel inspired – that shift in mindset changed how I measure success… and how I engage with teams on a human level.
Where do you draw inspiration from outside the world of business?
My children – they constantly offer new perspectives that bring great enlightenment.
One facet of leadership you’re consciously trying to improve…
Active listening.
On challenging days, what helps you reset your mind and regain clarity?
Religion – sitting under a fig tree (bo tree) or in a church on tough days has always helped me find solutions. The sense of peace clears the unnecessary noise in my head; it allows me to return with renewed perspectives.
If you could capture the essence of your leadership style in a short phrase, what would it be?
Clarity with compassion and trust: I provide clear guidance while acting with a sense of empathy and trust – without judgement or ego – that is always aligned with my goals, values and ethics.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a leader?
To be remembered as someone who made a positive difference to the lives of everyone I have met – whether through guidance, kindness or simply a belief in others.
Which book, podcast or piece of content has influenced you recently – and why did it resonate with you?
Man’s Search for Meaning – by Viktor E. Frankl. Its message that even in hardship, purpose gives strength and our choices define us deeply resonates with me, both personally and professionally.
If you could give your younger self one meaningful piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t change a thing – your life is challenging but good; and every experience shapes you for what’s ahead.
What’s an unconventional leadership insight you’ve learnt that others may find surprising?
People don’t give their best when they are watched – they give their best when they’re trusted.
What personal value or principle do you refuse to compromise?
Integrity – it is the foundation of trust, leadership and self-respect.
How do you spend your ideal weekend when you’re not working?
Getting my hands dirty with my classic cars with the help of my kids – it’s both therapeutic and a wonderful way to bond.
What’s the most memorable travel or life experience that has shaped the way you see the world?
Volunteering at the cancer hospital – it showed me how blessed we are and how unpredictable life can be, teaching me to appreciate even the smallest moments.
If someone shadowed you for a day, which one of your routines would surprise him or her?
Without a doubt, my work-life balance routine as a mother.
What’s a simple everyday pleasure that brings you unexpected joy?
My children’s calls – they remind me of my importance in their lives and instantly put a smile on my face.
What is the most underrated skill that today’s leaders should cultivate?
Integrity.
Name someone outside your sector or industry whom you admire – and why?
Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson – she inspired me during my school years with her smile and resilience, which left a lasting impression on me.
A common misconception people have about leaders at your level…
That we are unapproachable.
Looking ahead, what excites you the most about the next phase of your life and career?
Expanding into domains that spark curiosity, creativity and exploration.
