The British politician shares insights on optimism, learning from an incarcerated mother, and her unwavering belief in the power of community.
Her morning ritual: With her thyroid medication out of the way, she starts her day with a cup of ginger tea. Owing to her unpredictable job, her mornings often start with meetings.
What brings her optimism: Despite major surgeries, she is optimistic about her health and dreams of a better work-life balance. She also looks forward to learning new things.
What makes her angry: She detests those who fan the flames of division and try to drive people apart.
If not a politician, she would be: She would have pursued a career as a barrister, striving for justice, equality, and fairness and representing those who need a voice. This ambition is deeply rooted in her past experiences.
Her most effective habit: Optimism. She understands the importance of resilience and constantly seeks light, even in the darkest of times.
Habit she’s conquered: She’s overcome her penchant for biscuits, though she admits she still has a way to go.
Her sources of joy: Her children, coupled with old school R&B, dance and house music from the 80s and 90s. While she loves dancing, she admits her busy schedule doesn’t allow much time for it.
Her response to tough times: When things get difficult, she turns to her faith, Islam, for sanctuary, solace, and calm.
The book she recommends: ‘The Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People’ by Stephen Covey, which has profoundly shaped her understanding and leadership framework.
Her change of mind on: She has realized that being busy doesn’t equate productivity and that work-life balance isn’t a ‘luxury’ but a necessity for long-term performance.
What keeps her awake: Her job and her thoughts on solutions for societal problems.
Her motivation: Her faith. She believes that being true to her faith, humanity, and values will lead to a better world, emphasizing equality, fairness, and justice.
What her parents taught her: Her father taught her how not to behave, while her mother instilled in her the values of patience and resilience, even after spending 14 years in prison.
Her theory: She believes that communities have their own solutions, but lack the infrastructure to realize those solutions.
Advice to her younger self: She would tell her younger self to read more books and learn more languages.
‘Survival, Strength And My Path to Politics’ by Naz Shah is out now.
