We all know the saying, “If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.”The secret to a happy life naturally lies in a happy career. We asked six people who have managed to make this saying the centre of their lives about the secrets of working with love.
Banu Akan, the Brand Director of Maxx Royal Resorts, selected the world’s best family hotel, says her work makes her see life from various perspectives. Her advice for people in the beginning of their professional life is doing what you love, instead of loving what you do...
You’re one of those lucky people who love their job. How does loving what you do influence your view on life?
I feel very lucky to be able to do what I love. My occupation enables me to look at life from various perspectives, which truly influences all my habits, thoughts, feelings, and how I approach things.
Bluz, Pantolon / Blouse, Pants: Louis Vuitton
Most of us dreamed of being something when we were kids. Did you realize your dream, or did life lead you in a different direction? Can you tell us about your journey?
I tended to have far-fetched dreams when I was a child. When they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would answer with strange things such as an astronaut, a jockey, or a rally driver. As you can see, none of that happened. I chose working for my family’s company, and now I do it with great passion.
What do you love most about your job?
I love traveling, meeting new people, and experiencing new things. When you’re on a journey, you also have the opportunity to get to know yourself better. You come to realize your talents, wishes, likes and dislikes. The people I meet and the new experiences I have make me feel amazing like when you read a new book or watch a lovely film. On top of that, all this widens my perspective, helps me improve myself.
What about the challenges?
Every job has its challenges but when you love what you do, even dealing with them can be fun. Since I absolutely love it, I’m always energetic which helps me look at challenges with a positive attitude. When this energy is reflected on others, it creates a highly motivated successful team.
What is your biggest advice for people who are about to embark on a new career?
If you don’t want to work in a job where you keep checking your watch and cannot wait for the shift to be over, I suggest that you get to know yourself and discover your talents. Doing what you love, instead of loving what you do will have a positive influence on all aspects of life. Follow your passion and do what makes you happy.
FOTOĞRAF / PHOTOGRAPHY: ONUR DAĞ
STYLING: TÜLİN AVCI
SAÇ / HAIR STYLIST: REMZİ ATEŞ
MAKYAJ / MAKEUP ARTIST: GÖKHAN SERPİN (MAC)
FOTOĞRAF ASİSTANI / PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: MUSTAFA BERBER PRODÜKSİYON / PRODUCTION: ARMAĞAN MERVE BİLGİN & MÜGE SARIOĞLU