/ Thoughts From The Editor-In-Chief, Summer 2012

by Hina P. Ansari

Thoughts From The Editor-In-Chief, Summer 2012

May 15, 2013

Defining Happy

The work-life balance is a never-ending work in progress. At least it is for me. It’s a gradual decade-by-decade evolution, paired with the traditional earning of the stripes. I can only speak for myself in terms of the job evolution, but this is how it played out. In my twenties I was thankful for a) having a job, and b) a job that I loved that held the possibility of leading into a career. As expected, during this time of my work life, I put in the long hours, and was ready to take on any task. It’s the beginning of what I call “chip collection.” Like poker, I start collecting the proverbial chips at this stage of my work life. All set aside to be cashed in at a later time. Now was the time of discovery and nurturing of my work ethics — the building blocks of my name and reputation.

In my thirties, my priorities fell into place in what I needed to do to continue to move ahead in my career. This time I was overseeing departments and mentoring juniors (who I was 10 years ago), all the while balancing my mortgage payments, figuring out what “debt” actually meant and, of course, handling various family obligations. I continued to collect more chips.

At the close of my thirties, I was able to shed away the proverbial chains to the desk and move into a virtual freelance world where I was able to cash in some of those chips and try new things, explore new ventures, and basically take chances. As I entered my forties, priorities realigned once more. This time, my fearlessness in trying new things was overwhelming. New ventures weren’t as intimidating. I knew who I was, what I could offer and, regardless of the outcome, I gave what piqued my interest my best shot. Confidence was key. My portfolio was growing and my heart was feeling gratified. As I now enter my 42nd year, I am more aware of what truly makes me happy. And most importantly, I finally understand my limits. Yes, it took me 20 years to realize that saying “no” isn’t a sin.

And more chips were cashed in.

With this continued growth came a spiritual clarity, maturity and understanding of what makes one person “happy.” Career? Sure, for some. Friends and family? Well, of course. Health? Monumentally important. And I’m now focusing on the last point. The whole health and wellness world has greater meaning for me now. I’m realizing that I need to take stock in what is “good” for me, and what that is may not be for others. Another important reality. As long as I was doing it my way, that’s what matters. Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan is doing just that as we see in The Moment (page 133).

And this is the thought process that we took when we approached our Health & Wellness issue. With our expanded Health & Wellness Section (page 85), we delve into various facets of life, that either on it’s own or combined with others, have the capacity of creating that “happiness” that we all aspire to achieve. We explore the idea of letting love in as you explore love (Relationship, page 96). If kinky is your thing, then we have ways to spice it up in the bedroom (Sex, page 98). Are you looking to add travel to your wellness mantra? Check out our special on wine list, where we give you a great guide on what goes with what (A Perfect Match, page 106), as well as take you on a journey to the world’s most iconic vineyards (Great Escape, page 108). Do you just want to let your hair down? No problem. Our Top 5 Party Cities in the World (page 104) is perfect for you.

With the summer season upon us, we continue to deliver the hottest fashion, style and beauty trends from the runways of the world, including a collection of the hautest essentials for your summer soirees, whether it’s poolside (Scathing Beauty, page 48) or beyond (Monika’s Must-Haves, page 38). This is the season to explore nature, and to make your outdoor activities memorable we have our list of what you need (Hiking & Biking, page 110). Add some sizzle to your visage with our hottest hair and makeup tips (Ramp To Reality, page 67).

And that is just the beginning. We hope that this issue inspires you to continue to look inward when it comes to your well-being. Because, as they say, there is no time like the present to give your mind, body and soul a refresher course on what really counts.

Hina P. Ansari
Editor-In-Chief

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARKAN ZAKHAROV / WWW.ARKANPHOTO.COM
PUBLISHED IN THE HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE, SUMMER 2012

Hina P. Ansari

Author

Hina P. Ansari is a graduate from The University of Western Ontario (London, Ontario). Since then she has carved a successful career in Canada's national fashion-publishing world as the Entertainment/Photo Editor at FLARE Magazine, Canada's national fashion magazine. She was the first South Asian in...