LIFESTYLE
A peek into the life of Ronali Perera
In conversation with Natalie Seneviratne
What do you do at the beginning of your day that sets the tone before work begins?
I start my day outside with the sun on my face, wind in my hair and gratitude in my heart.
Which personal habit or routine has had the greatest impact on your professional life?
Preparing a to-do list daily with reminders and completing them – I find ticking them off oddly satisfying.
How do you maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and a demanding work schedule?
By setting intentional boundaries between the two – I know it’s easier said than done but I do try.
If you had a month to unplug anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go and what would you do there?
I’d travel across Europe, starting from the South of France – and spend my time relaxing, sightseeing and of course, sampling international flavours and vibrant local cuisine.
What’s been the defining moment in your leadership journey so far?
Becoming a mother while building a business.
Where do you draw inspiration from outside the world of business?
There are so many places – from my son, nature and my ‘alone time’ with God.
One facet of leadership you’re consciously trying to improve…
To be better at delegating tasks.
On challenging days, what helps you reset your mind and regain clarity?
Heading over to the courts and playing pickleball always helps!
If you could capture the essence of your leadership style in a short phrase, what would it be?
A warm presence with unshakeable standards.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a leader?
Creating a brand that outlives me – I want people to say ‘she built more than courts, she built a culture and did it while raising her son.’
What book, podcast or piece of content has influenced you recently – and why did it resonate with you?
The podcast by Natalie Dawson – I learnt so many practical and actionable skills that I could apply to myself to build myself up better, to build a stronger and more resilient business.
If you could give your younger self one meaningful piece of advice, what would it be?
Start building your business now!
What’s an unconventional leadership insight you’ve learnt that others may find surprising?
People assume that being warm or a woman equates to being soft; but the truth is you can care deeply, lead with conviction and yet, draw hard lines.
What personal value or principle do you refuse to compromise?
Integrity
How do you spend your ideal weekend when you’re not working?
Out and about exploring Sri Lanka, discovering hidden gems, and scouting the best local eats with my husband and son.
What’s the most memorable travel or life experience that has shaped the way you see the world?
Simply travelling outside of Sri Lanka in general gives you so much perspective every single time – I always come back with a renewed sense of fresh perspective and inspiration after every trip.
If someone shadowed you for a day, which one of your routines would surprise him or her?
It would probably be my morning cuddle time in bed with my dog Roscoe.
What’s a simple everyday pleasure that brings you unexpected joy?
Enjoying a good strong iced coffee seated in my garden by myself.
What is the most underrated skill that today’s leaders should cultivate?
The ability to pause before responding.
Name someone outside your sector whom you admire – and why?
Sara Blakely – the way she persevered in her journey to become the world’s youngest female self-made billionaire… It gives me hope.
A common misconception people have about leaders at your level…
That it’s exciting all the time.
Looking ahead, what excites you the most about the next phase of your life and career?
Life wise, I would say watching my son grow up while developing his own unique personality brings me immense joy.
Career wise, I’m excited for the promising future of pickleball in Sri Lanka and what The Pickle Island has in store for everyone.
