Exhaustion helps me sleep in peace

A day in the life of Priyanka Chopra…

It isn’t as glamorous as you would think. My life is all about 5 am call times, 16-hour work days, photoshoots; but I wouldn’t change anything about it.

Your last vacation…

About three years ago, after my dad passed away. My mom, brother, aunts and cousins, all went to the Turks and Caicos Islands for a long overdue vacation. Think beautiful, sun-kissed beaches, azure water, delectable food and the best company. We had an amazing time and we bonded with each other over fun conversations.

Any destination on your bucket list?

I love to visit new places and my work takes me across the globe. I don’t really have a bucket list, but I know I will keep travelling and exploring all my life.

As the elder sister, are you the head of the family now?

Ever since I started working, I took up the responsibility of taking care of my family. My parents encouraged it. My father will always remain the head of our family, and my mom, its backbone. I have just assumed the role of being everyone’s caretaker, sometimes to the point of being excessively protective. The truth is my family means everything to me. My mom lovingly calls me her ‘grandmother’.

How do you pull yourself back together after a loss or heartbreak?

I work, often to the point of exhaustion and collapse. Work gives me focus, and exhaustion helps me sleep peacefully without trying too hard. This way, I am completely recharged when I wake up the next day. Irrespective of what happens, you have to keep moving on, and this is what allows me to realign. It’s not as easy as it seems to be, but it works for me almost every time.

Do you plan things in life?

I have never followed a plan. I trust my instinct. Also, I like to push the set boundaries; I push myself into trying something new time and again. Taking up challenges has made me whatever I am today.

Would you follow your heart when it comes to love, marriage?

I’m a hopeless romantic but I do believe your mind should also be involved in the decision. You can be easily blinded by both love and your heart. Your mind ensures you are aware of the reality and you’re okay with it. Marriage is no cake walk. And while love is imperative, it’s not the only thing that makes a marriage successful.

How often do you get ‘me’ time?

When I need ‘me’ time, I just take it. It’s not difficult because I surround myself with people I love and respect; this applies even in my professional life. They all fight to make sure I get time to myself.