What is the best thing that I love about my work as a storyteller? I get to pick the narrative. Can you believe that? For 12-year-old Neha, it is a dream come true. My mom introduced me to the world of heroes, heroines and characters that make you stay up finishing a book. I always thought I’d become a writer and constricted that to books. As the years passed, I continued to write for myself – poems about people I love, stories from my childhood and so on. By the time I completed my MSc in Branding from Nottingham Trent University in 2016, things had begun to change. Especially for me, writing became about simplicity and making people resonate with it and know that they’re not alone. That is by far, the most rewarding experience I have ever had.
What is my idea of happiness? Happiness for me is in the smaller things – Peace of mind, clarity and gratitude. I think happiness is in the now, at this very moment. I wish you could see how happy I am while responding to these questions right now 🙂
What is my greatest fear? Complacency. Being okay with things the way they are and not taking responsibility for it – SCARY.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself? Sometimes, I get too caught up in my own head and worry about things outside of me (my control) – people and situations. Over the years, I’ve figured out the tools that help me focus on my inside and hence, shape my perspective for the outside.
Which living persons in my profession do I most admire? I don’t follow too many people as yet, but as a peer, I think Shreya Pattar is always very inspiring and has often, without knowing, pushed me in the right direction. (Thank you, Shreya)
What is my greatest extravagance? Books/Reading, if that is even possible.
On what occasion would I lie? I am compulsive when it comes to weaving a good story so if it requires a little fib here or there, I’ll happily do it to make it more interesting.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work? The unpredictability of the freelance world.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work? Oh, every time I press that ‘send’ button, I do my happy dance. I celebrate words, there’s no other way of doing this.
If I could, what would I change about myself? I would explore a lot more. Perhaps, take a quick detour from my comfort zone more often.
What is my greatest achievement in work? I get to interact with startups and established businesses alike and aid them in narrating their story and attract a loyal audience.
Where would I most like to live? My mind says London but sometimes, I wouldn’t mind a quaint town somewhere in Europe or India either by the beach or a mountain.
What is my most treasured possession? Memories from the years so far.
What is my most marked characteristic? Loyalty
What is my most inspirational location in my city? Marine Drive, Mumbai, India hearing the waves lash against the shore.
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city? This changes often, currently it is sushi from Koko
What books influenced my life and how? Firstly, Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist – for helping me realise that we have our very own, individual journey’s Secondly, Ikigai – I started Chapter IV: The Brand Boutique after reading it. More recently, it was Forty rules of love for helping me unlearn all I know about love and self-love.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen to on my last day? Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction? It is simply anyone who has taken a journey in self-growth and love and their actions, follow suit.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life? People who aren’t afraid to do what they can for their version of ‘happy’
Which movie would I recommend to see once in a lifetime? If you want something motivating: The Founder But if you’re looking for words that stay with you: PS I Love You
What role do stories play in my life and work? Words mean life.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ mean to me? I am in the driver’s seat; anything is possible.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, a partner in crime? Aanchal, my pseudo mom, girlfriend and everything in between.
Which people or companies would I like to work with in 2021? I’d love to exchange ideas with brands and people from all over the globe but I have always wanted to partner with:Airbnb, Hotel Chocolat, Le15 / Pooja Dhingra
What project, in 2021, am I looking forward to working on? Writing a book, maybe? Time will tell.
Where can you see me or my work in 2021?
On my website – http://www.chapteriv.in
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me? When you love what you do, the journey trumps the destination.
Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story? Neha Gujrani (Brand Manager)j, Natasha Periera (Brand Owner), Jyoti Lalwani (Brand Owner), Aashika Mulchandani (Baker), Ekta Mulchandani (Designer)
How can you contact me? You can email me at neha@chapteriv.in or fill in a form on http://www.chapteriv.in