Q+A: Rakesh Makhija

Rakesh Makhija, president of SKF Group AB's Asia operations.[Photo/ChinaDaily]

Q: How do you spend your weekend?

A: Meeting friends, long walks, new eating places and sleep.

What are your hobbies?

Several sports, playing and watching, reading, experimenting with new single malts.

What is the saying that you like the most?

Just do it.

Who is your icon? Which living person do you most admire?

I have none. I admire several people.

What is the book you are reading now? What are your favorite books?

Steve Jobs' biography. Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

A good day of work and spending time with family.

What is your greatest fear?

Failure.

What is the quality you most admire in a man?

Humility.

What is the quality you most admire in a woman?

Simplicity.

What do you value the most in your friends?

Honesty and generosity.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

Don't know.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Haven't thought about it.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Learn not to dislike shopping.

What is your most treasured possession?

Nothing material.

On what occasion do you lie?

When it serves a greater good.

What kind of "green" lifestyle do you have?

I eat healthily and work out when possible.

Name places in China you have not gone but want to explore?

Xinjiang and Harbin.

What's the best way to break the ice with a Chinese businessman you've met for the first time?

Appreciate his country, his culture and his cuisine.

What kind of experience has shaped your thoughts the most?

Leading from the front.