100% passion, 0% alcohol - Interview with Tijen Onaran

She is considered a "digital pioneer" and an "exceptional figure in the German digital scene." In March 2021, Handelsblatt named Tijen Onaran one of the 100 women who will drive Germany forward in the coming years. This is far from her only accolade. Manager Magazin lists her among the top 100 most influential women, and the business magazine Capital includes her in its list of the top 40 under 40 talents in German business. Her job titles no longer fit on a business card: moderator, speaker, podcaster, columnist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author.

She is a courageous role model for a young generation of female entrepreneurs and, according to her Twitter bio, has made “diversity and inclusion her life's work.” A life in which a champagne reception is just as much a part of it as an after-work glass of wine with her company team. Global Digital WomenIt's been quite a while since her last personal wine delivery. The last time Tijen consciously toasted with alcohol was at a digital wine tasting at the beginning of the pandemic. Since then, she's been relying on non-alcoholic alternatives.

The pandemic has also had positive effects: realizing that life is possible without alcohol.

Was there a nasty awakening with a terrible hangover?
“There was no ‘aha’ moment, just occasions that were cancelled, such as dinners with friends or events. The pandemic had a positive effect in that I realized: life without alcoholic drinks is possible. I noticed relatively quickly that I didn’t miss anything and that I became fitter and more productive.”

She can now use her newfound energy for her projects. For her, it's "not about higher, faster, further," but about the benefits of a healthy body and a clear mind, which is doubly advantageous in the challenging environment of an entrepreneur with a packed schedule.

Why not simply wash away the stress with a glass of wine?

How has your life changed as a result?
“I’ve noticed that even a glass of wine during stressful situations can cause a headache the next day. I already have a job that demands a lot of passion and energy, so I try to stay fit and live a healthy lifestyle. It doesn’t always work out in every area, but for the past year I’ve been very successful in abstaining from alcohol.” She also focuses on healthy eating. and is involved in various start-ups, such as recently Pumpkin Organics, a company specializing in baby food.

How do you stay "strong" in typical drinking situations?
“I don’t lack anything, so I don’t have to ‘stay strong’ either. There aren’t any external occasions for socializing anyway, and if I do meet up with friends digitally, I opt for non-alcoholic options.”

One question remains: What does one of Germany's most important opinion leaders toast to at the end of a successful workday?
“I’m still experimenting a lot and keep noticing that the market for non-alcoholic drinks has room for growth. While there are some fruit spritzers and flavored drinks available, the options become limited when you want something more creative. I avoid soft drinks and don’t crave them. Otherwise, I might try a non-alcoholic cocktail.”I like to have a drink with dinner. alcohol-free gin and tonic "With your gin, of course!"

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Cover image: Andrea Heinsohn