“I have crafted a regimen that combines physical activity, intellectual stimulation, and a commitment to self-care. Regular exercise, whether it’s hitting the gym, practising Krav Maga, or enjoying long walks, forms a cornerstone of my routine,” Mittersain told ETMarkets in an interview.
Additionally, Nitish Mittersain finds solace and focus in the wisdom of Stoicism, regularly immersing himself in the timeless teachings of Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations.” Edited excerpts:
Q) How do you keep yourself mentally fit?
Mental fitness is a priority for me, given the demanding nature of the startup and business world, it’s important to find a balance among work, personal life, and self-care.
Regular exercise, whether it’s hitting the gym, practicing Krav Maga, music or going for long walks is a cornerstone of my routine.
Additionally, I read stoicism regularly such as “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius to enhance focus and clarity.
As the saying goes, “A healthy mind in a healthy body,” and this holds true for maintaining mental well-being in the bustling business landscape.
Q) What sparked your interest in music?
My interest in music has roots in my early years. Growing up, there was constant music playing because my mom was a professional bhajan singer.
Music, with its ability to convey emotions and connect people across cultures, always fascinated me.
Whether playing an instrument like the saxophone or simply appreciating different genres, music has been a consistent source of joy and inspiration in my life.
As Victor Hugo said, “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent,” encapsulating the profound impact of music on the human soul. I particularly enjoy jazz and have been part of a jazz band for decades. For me, practicing the saxophone is also a great way to destress.
Q) Krav Maga training increases the level of strength. How does it keep you mentally fit as well? What is your experience?
Krav Maga, beyond its physical benefits, significantly impacts mental fitness. This self-defence system demands sharp focus, quick decision-making, and adaptability to various scenarios.
The discipline required in Krav Maga training extends to mental resilience as well, preparing the mind to stay calm and composed under pressure.
Personally, I’ve found that this mental fortitude gained through Krav Maga not only serves me well in self-defence situations but also translates into a more composed and effective approach to business and leadership challenges.
Q)You also spend considerable time in the gym. What is the frequency?
Regular gym sessions are a fundamental part of my routine, typically scheduled at least 4 times a week. Exercise is not just about physical health; it’s about mental vigour, too.
It helps in managing stress, enhancing focus, and boosting overall productivity. The discipline of regular workouts grants me the freedom to stay mentally sharp and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Q)What role does mental fitness play, especially in leadership roles?
Mental fitness is the backbone of effective leadership. The ability to maintain a clear, focused mind amid complex challenges is important. It enables making informed decisions and staying resilient in the face of adversity.
Especially in the startup world where stress is high, both physical and mental fitness are critical.
Q)Tell us a little bit about yourself – education and what motivated you to start the company?
I have studied for a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) from University of Mumbai. The genesis of Nazara Technologies stemmed during my college years from a vision to amalgamate technology with my deep-rooted passion for gaming.
Witnessing the immense potential of the gaming industry and recognizing the evolving digital landscape motivated me to establish Nazara.
It was about creating a platform that brings people together through interactive and engaging entertainment, a vision that continues to drive the company’s endeavors today.
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