A day in the life of Aatir Dhadalla, Managing Partner and General Manager at Meals on Me Dubai, reveals how he keeps the meal subscription service running smoothly
6:00am
I rise early to strategically plan my day and set clear priorities. This early hour is not just about starting my day; it’s a dedicated moment for reflection and strategy. I find it essential to have a structured overview of my schedule to maximise productivity. A key part of my morning routine centres around getting my child ready for his tutoring sessions. I start by gently waking him up at a consistent time each morning to ensure he doesn’t feel rushed. I guide him through his morning hygiene routines and help him choose an outfit for the day, making sure he feels comfortable and confident in what he wears. I then prepare a nutritious breakfast, often selecting options that will provide him with the energy he needs for his tutoring sessions. I encourage him to enjoy his meal and talk about what he hopes to learn during tutoring. Meanwhile, I make sure his bag is organised and everything is in place, providing a last-minute review of his schedule for the day ahead. My goal is to create a smooth and stress-free start to his day while setting him up for success in his learning activities. This structured approach allows me to balance personal responsibilities with the demands of my leadership role effectively.
7:00am
I drop off my son at his tutor. During the ride, I listen to him excitedly share about his day ahead – his teachers, classmates, and the new concepts he’s been learning at school. This morning routine, although brief, is essential for both of us. It not only instils a sense of punctuality but also sets a positive tone for the day. I cherish these moments, as they reinforce the importance of time management and preparation, qualities that are vital in both our personal and professional lives.
8:00am
While I enjoy my coffee, I also take this time to review customer feedback, analyse reviews, and gather valuable business insights in peaceful silence. During these quiet moments, I prioritise my roles and responsibilities by brainstorming about upcoming projects and initiatives. This helps ensure that I’m focusing on what truly matters, allowing me to see the bigger picture and align my agenda accordingly. Occasionally, I might have a light yet nutritious meal to fuel my motivation—often just a protein shake to energise me for the tasks ahead. It’s all part of my approach to setting the right tone for a productive day.
8:30am
As the day begins to unfold, I immerse myself in my role. This time of morning is crucial; it sets the tone for a productive day ahead. I methodically transition into my professional attire, each article chosen to reflect our brand’s commitment to excellence. I ensure that I have all necessary materials — strategic plans, reports and the latest market analysis — and that every item is pivotal. By 9 am, I am ready to engage with the team, armed with a clear vision and a strategic mindset, prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of our organisation.
9:30am
I take a moment to settle in, letting the familiar sounds and scents of the office surround me. I pull out my notebook and jot down my pending tasks, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. I check my meeting schedules, reviewing any upcoming discussions or presentations to prepare for. This ritual not only helps me organise my thoughts but also equips me mentally to dive into the day ahead.
11:00am
A crucial aspect of my professional routine is to guarantee that our cloud kitchen consistently delivers meals of the highest quality to our customers. To achieve and maintain this standard, I take an active role in supervising our head chefs as they manage their daily tasks and culinary preparations. My position as General Manager extends beyond kitchen oversight; I also provide guidance and mentorship to the leaders of various departments, including marketing, sales, customer service, and logistics. This holistic approach ensures that every facet of our operations runs smoothly and efficiently. At 11 am, I engage in in-depth discussions and collaborations with the team leads, where we share insights, address challenges, and strategise ways to enhance our service and product offerings. This collaborative environment fosters a culture of continuous improvement and commitment to excellence.
1:00pm
I always opt for a wholesome lunch that is very low in starch and primarily vegetarian or vegan. This choice not only fuels my body with the essential nutrients it needs but also keeps my mind sharp and focused throughout the day. I firmly believe that a nourishing lunch sets the tone for the remaining hours, ensuring that I maintain energy and productivity.
3:30pm
I gather with my team for an insightful discussion centred on the challenges, potential areas for improvement, and constructive suggestions. This segment provides us with the opportunity to thoughtfully reflect on the various elements that require our attention and prioritisation. We aim to identify strategies that will significantly enhance our customers’ satisfaction and overall experience. We’ll dive deep into our current processes, examine feedback, and collaboratively brainstorm innovative solutions to ensure we are meeting and exceeding our clients’ expectations.
5:00pm
We often engage in in-depth discussions with both the Head Chef and our nutritionist. These conversations focus on a variety of topics aimed at elevating our customer service and refining the menus. We carefully analyse customer feedback and explore innovative strategies to enhance both flavour and nutritional value in our offerings. One of our primary goals is to seamlessly blend taste with nutrition and convenience, ensuring that our meals not only satisfy the palate but also support our customers’ health goals. Each meeting is centred around this mission, where we brainstorm new recipes, evaluate ingredient options, and consider the latest nutritional trends. This allows us to continually adapt and improve our services while maintaining high standards of quality and satisfaction.
6:00pm
At our end-of-the-day meeting, we reflect on our interactions with customers, ensuring that they have experienced a seamless and hassle-free service throughout. We not only review the tasks completed by each team but also highlight any challenges encountered and how they were resolved. We encourage everyone to share feedback, promoting an open dialogue. Furthermore, we outline the tasks for the following day, ensuring everyone is aligned on priorities and responsibilities. This helps us maintain a steady workflow and prepare for a productive start the next day.
7:00pm
I am greeted by the comforting warmth of my sanctuary. My house is filled with laughter and chatter, signalling the beginning of our cherished evening together. Late evenings are sacred in our household, a time when the outside world fades away and my focus shifts entirely to my family. I relish these moments, discovering the joy in shared stories, hearty meals, and the little things that weave us closer together. Each second spent with my loved ones is a treasure, filling my heart with gratitude and happiness.
8:00pm
I genuinely believe that maintaining an active lifestyle is essential not only for a strong and healthy body but also for cultivating a positive and focused mind. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or participating in a fitness class, these activities energise me and set a productive tone for the rest of my day.
9:00pm
I prioritise a habitual gathering around the dining table. This ritual has become a cornerstone of my routine, allowing us to share a light, wholesome dinner that nourishes both body and mind. We discuss the details of our day— celebrating the victories, no matter how small, while also reflecting on the more challenging moments. It’s a chance for each of us to voice our experiences and feelings. This evening tradition is essential for maintaining a healthy balance between my professional commitments and personal life. It serves as a grounding force, reminding me of the importance of connection and family dynamics amidst the pressures of work. It helps me return to my professional responsibilities with a clearer mind and renewed motivation. This integration of quality family time into my daily routine is not just a personal preference; it is an integral component of my definition of success, ensuring that I remain rooted in what truly matters.
10:00pm
I recognise the importance of leisure time as a vital component of my routine. After completing the day’s tasks, I take this opportunity to unwind, often sinking into my couch with a good book or delving into the latest culinary trends and ideas. This time not only serves as a relaxing therapy but also fuels my creativity and passion for our business.
12:00am
I settle into bed and take a moment to reflect on the day’s events and envision what tomorrow will bring. I like to review my schedule for the next day, mentally noting any important tasks or responsibilities that I need to tackle. Whether it’s a work project, a personal errand, or a commitment to a friend, I try to take stock of everything on my plate. This little ritual not only helps me feel organised but also allows me to sleep with a sense of purpose, knowing that I have a plan in place for the day ahead.
