LIFESTYLE

A peek into the life of Shehani Wijeyesekera

How do you maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and a demanding work schedule?
I think we all know there isn’t a perfect balance between work and family – I try to be kind to myself and accept that I won’t always get it right.

If you had a month to unplug anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go and what would you do there?
Somewhere quiet by the ocean with my family – I’d paint or work on something creative.

What’s been the defining moment in your leadership journey so far?
Becoming a mother while building a business – it completely changed the way I lead. I’m more patient and intentional with every action. 

Where do you draw inspiration from outside the world of business?
Mostly from everyday life – my husband, travelling and the little colourful moments at home with the children.

One facet of leadership you’re consciously trying to improve…
Learning to let go of perfection and trusting others more. Delegating doesn’t come naturally to me but it’s something I’m actively working on.

On challenging days, what helps you reset your mind and regain clarity?
Nothing crazy – I try to watch something light-hearted at the end of the day and force myself to switch off.

If you could capture the essence of your leadership style in a short phrase, what would it be?
A method to the madness with strong attention to detail.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a leader?
Hopefully that I’ve guided people in the right direction and built something meaningful along the way.

What book, podcast or piece of content has influenced you recently – and why did it resonate with you?
Emma Grede speaking about balance really resonated with me. Her perspective on accepting that we can’t do everything all the time, and being comfortable with the trade-offs that come with that, felt both realistic and empowering.

If you could give your younger self one meaningful piece of advice, what would it be?
Hard work and discipline will always pay off.

What’s an unconventional leadership insight you’ve learnt that others may find surprising?
Having a high level of open-mindedness in order to learn and embrace new ideas.

What personal value or principle do you refuse to compromise?
Loyalty.

How do you spend your ideal weekend when you’re not working?
With my husband and children – we make it a point to do something fun and exciting together, whether it’s exploring somewhere new or simply enjoying quality time as a family.

What’s the most memorable travel or life experience that has shaped the way you see the world?
Motherhood has been the most transformative experience in my life. It has reshaped how I see time, priorities and even success. It’s made me more present, patient and aware of how fast things can change. That perspective has influenced not only my personal life but also the way I lead and make decisions every day.

If someone shadowed you for a day, which one of your routines would surprise him or her?
How much of my day revolves around my children.

What’s a simple everyday pleasure that brings you unexpected joy?
Getting a workout in or making myself an iced latte.

And what is the most underrated skill that today’s leaders should cultivate?
Emotional intelligence – understanding people, and their strengths, emotions and perspectives.

Name someone outside your sector whom you admire – and why?
I am very fortunate to know so many amazing women who inspire me in different aspects of their lives both personally and professionally.

A common misconception people have about leaders at your level…
That we have everything figured out. In reality, we’re constantly learning, adapting and figuring things out as we go – we make mistakes too.

Looking ahead, what excites you the most about the next phase of your life and career?
Growing what we’ve built in a way that still feels aligned with who we are and what we stand for.

Shehani Wijeyesekera is the Creative Director of Mimosa and Union Venture.