Each morning begins with taking her thyroid medication, followed by a half-hour wait before enjoying a ginger tea. This ritual helps her start the day energized. Although her work schedule varies, it often includes early meetings.
I feel optimistic about …
Shah expressed a strong sense of optimism about her health following significant surgeries. She hopes to achieve a better work-life balance and remains enthusiastic about lifelong learning.
What makes me angry …
Shah feels anger towards individuals who seek to create division among people. She voices concern for those who promote discord, emphasizing the importance of unity.
In an alternate career path, Shah would have pursued being a barrister. She aspires to advocate for justice and equality, influenced by her own experiences. Through this lens, she aims to ensure that others do not face similar inequalities.
The habit that has served me best in life …
Shah cites optimism as her most beneficial habit, focusing on resilience and the ability to seek positivity, even during difficult times.
The habit I’ve successfully kicked …
She has managed to reduce her intake of biscuits, specifically Custard Creams and Chocolate Hobnobs, though she acknowledges that there are still more habits to change.
If you’re true to your faith, your humanity, and your values, you will make the world a better place.
My sources of joy are …
Her greatest sources of joy are her children and music, particularly classic R&B and dance hits from the 1980s and 1990s. While she loves to dance, her busy schedule often leaves little time for it.
When things get tough I …
Shah turns to her faith in Islam during challenging times, finding comfort and calmness through her spirituality.
The book I wish everyone would read …
One book she recommends is “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. She credits it with shaping her understanding of leadership early in her career.
‘People have the answers but they don’t have the means to get to those answers,’ says Nav Shah. Image: Mauro Mora
Shah has come to understand that busy schedules do not equate to productivity. For her, achieving a work-life balance is essential for sustainable performance.
What keeps me awake at night …
Concerns related to her responsibilities keep Shah awake at night. She tends to overthink, particularly regarding solutions to societal issues.
The thing that motivates me most of all …
Her faith serves as her greatest motivation. Shah believes that adhering to one’s faith and values can contribute positively to society. She is committed to reducing inequality and supporting those in less fortunate positions.
My mother spent 14 years in prison and taught me how to hold on to the light.
My parents taught me …
Through her experiences, Shah learned valuable lessons from both parents. Her father influenced her understanding of responsibility, while her mother, who spent years in prison, taught her resilience and patience, instilling a sense of strength and determination.
I have this theory that …
Shah believes that communities possess their own solutions to problems, but often lack the necessary means to access them. She emphasizes that while aspirations are strong, infrastructural support is essential for realization.
I’d like to tell my younger self …
Shah wishes she had embraced reading and language learning more during her younger years. She has recently discovered a passion for reading, which contrasts with her earlier experiences.
Honoured: Survival, Strength And My Path to Politics by Naz Shah (W&N, £22) is out now.
Main image: House of Commons
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