What/Who is God?

A supernatural person who plays an important part in one’s life. It is a private relationship.

What happens when you die?

Not sure. Reincarnation fascinates me – I have just finished reading a book on it, where one of the stories involved someone who has had 12 lives. My logical mind says it makes sense, but it does fly in the face of traditional religion. I am a questioning man – and I still ask why all the major wars are over religion.

What would you do with your last 24 hours?

I would summons the family and I would want to talk to my two boys about how to look after their mother after I am gone and I would ask them to take out, through my death, the lesson on how to find a balance in their lives.

Describe your life in one word?

Phenomenal.

Describe yourself in four words?

A truly positive thinker.

How do you think others describe you?

Successful, a control freak, a paradigm thinker, calculating and passionate.

What is your current state of mind?

Excited.

What is success?

Following a dream and making it happen, no matter what that dream may be.

What do you do with a spare 15 minutes?

At work, I would use that opportunity to walk around and talk to my employees, and at home, I would watch TV.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

Racism – regarding both colour and religion.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

What determines time on earth?

When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Three weeks ago – I put out spectacle insurance (with Spec-Savers).

What does money mean to you?

It’s a consequence of success.

Any regrets?

That my father is not around to see what I am doing. He thought I was the dunce in the family. That, and the fact that I don’t have a hobby to provide balance in my life.

Any great lessons in life?

Yes, Colin Hall introduced me to Stephen Covey. I am continually inspired by his doctrine.

Define what you do?

I continually strive to change the paradigm.

What would you say to an 18-year-old entrepreneur starting out?

Don’t stop when people say you are mad, and when bankers say it won’t work. Believe in yourself.

What are you afraid of?

There isn’t enough time to do what I still want to do in life.

What skill would you love, but don’t have?

Play music.

What moves you emotionally?

Tragedy.

What don’t you like about yourself?

My weight.

What is love? Consideration, passion, dedication, reward.

And how is this manifested in your life?

30 Years of marriage – support, friendship, and success.

What is your greatest wish?

I wish Madiba was 25 years younger and leading this country.

What is one surprising fact about you?

Maybe my compassion for others.

Are you living your life’s purpose?

Do I feel complete? If that’s the question, then yes.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who has always challenged the status quo. As being trustworthy, and considered a friend.

What do you think of South Africa today?

In some way we are still entrenched but, if you find the time to talk to government politicians, and understand their thinking, you will realize that this is a wonderful place to be. Africa is just beginning to take off. There is a paradigm change about to happen.

What do you think of the world today?

We have entered into an era of social capitalism, which means that balance sheets and worldly goods will no longer be the accepted measurement of success. It is now far more about social and environmental commitment.

Any last thoughts?

Yes. Life is what you make of it. It is far easier and more rewarding to take the positive out of a bad experience and turn it into a success than to constantly focus on the negative. Difficulties and overcoming them can often be an advantage.