Q+A | Tomaso Trussardi

Tomaso Trussardi,CEO of Trussardi Group. Provided to China Daily

Q: How do you spend your weekends?

A: Tennis is the one thing I like and play most. When I was a kid, I practiced it a lot because I planned to join some competition. But now it's mainly for enjoying myself.

What are your hobbies?

I like all of the things about motoring. In my spare time, I also like reading about philosophy, trying to understand more about our mind and our way of thinking.

What is the saying you like the most? Why?

I don't have a motto or such kind of saying. I am quite a positive person. And I think my problem is I think too much, and I should stop thinking and do something.

Who is your idol?

I am more interested in what people do. For example, for my job, I like to watch what other companies (are doing) this year.

What book are you reading?

I am now reading Storia del capitalismo Italiano, an Italian book regarding capitalism and industrial issues in the last 40 years.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Balance. It's really difficult to keep work, private life and love in balance. Sometimes I can achieve it, sometimes not. I think I am too young to say that I have achieved this.

What is your greatest fear?

I don't like big changes in life. There are too many things in the changing that you cannot handle. I am quite fearful of what I am not able to handle.

What is the quality you most admire in a man?

Patience, which I don't have. I may have patience with other people, but I don't have any with myself.

What is the quality you most admire in a woman?

I have a girlfriend now, so I would tell you that my girlfriend is the most attractive woman. She is mad, sort of artistic, creative, and sort of the opposite of me, which helps me see and understand the world.

What do you value the most in your friends?

To be humble.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

I was born with being critical about myself, and there (are) days that I hate myself and don't like anything about myself. But now I feel OK with myself.

When do you lie?

Always. I am joking.

I used to be a liar (to my parents) when I was a kid because I want to be free and do whatever I want. But now, I would tell small lies to people I care about because I don't want to hurt them, or in business, not to tell lies, but not to say everything.

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

I wouldn't put the question this way. I think it's very easy. China for me is one of the few countries where people are very easy to get in touch with. I don't think there is ice to break.

Give three words to describe your impression of Chinese businessmen.

They are really tough, strong, and don't care about anything except money.