Indra Nooyi (born October 28, 1955)
Former Chairwoman, CEO, and President of PepsiCo

Great Habits and Philosophy

Indra Nooyi is an Indian-born executive who served as the CEO of PepsiCo, one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. As a woman and an immigrant leading a global corporation, her journey has inspired countless people around the world. She led her organization with practical judgment and people-centered leadership, consistently practicing the value of “people over profits.”

Her daily routine was built on strict self-discipline. She would wake up at 4 a.m., read newspapers, take notes, and plan her day carefully. After light exercise and breakfast, she made it a habit to arrive at the office earlier than anyone else. During work hours, she never dismissed even small conversations lightly and made a sincere effort to remember each employee’s name and situation. For her, leadership was not about giving orders, but about listening and empathizing.

Nooyi focused on transforming PepsiCo’s product portfolio in a healthier direction. She reduced the company’s dependence on high-calorie beverages and snacks, while expanding low-sugar and low-fat options. This strategy was not merely a response to market trends, but a decision rooted in her belief that “corporations have a responsibility to positively impact people’s lives.”

Favorite Foods and Eating Habits

Indra Nooyi has maintained the dietary habits of her Indian upbringing throughout her life. She enjoys traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine and prefers meals rich in vegetables and diverse spices. Even while living abroad, she never forgot the flavors of her homeland, which helped her maintain her identity and balance in life.

Her eating style is simple yet thoughtful. Despite her busy schedule, she made time for warm meals during lunch and often chose to dine with her employees, using mealtime as an opportunity for conversation. To Nooyi, meals were not just about nourishment, but about sharing moments and building connections. At the dining table, she encouraged open and horizontal dialogue, naturally easing tensions within the organization.

She also emphasized moderation and listening to her body. She once said, “My body speaks to me every day. I must listen and respond.” This mindset reflects not only her eating habits, but her overall approach to life. For her, healthy eating formed the foundation for clear thinking and sound judgment.

Love and Philosophy of Human Relationships

Indra Nooyi is also known for speaking honestly about life as a working mother. After marriage, she had two daughters and openly acknowledged the challenges of balancing work and family. She often said, “You cannot have everything at the same time,” emphasizing a realistic approach to work-life balance. There were moments when business trips kept her from her children’s birthdays, and times when she called home during meetings just to check on them.

She always tried her best for her family while striving not to lose herself in the process. Her husband and daughters respected and supported her decisions, even when her role demanded long hours and constant travel. Nooyi described love as “not perfection, but sincerity and responsibility,” and she consistently expressed gratitude toward her family.

As a female leader, she was deeply committed to opening doors for other women. Through internal mentoring programs, she personally supported many female employees in developing their careers and finding balance in their lives. She firmly believed that “success is not about climbing alone, but about lifting others as you rise,” and she lived out this belief through her actions.

Lessons We Can Learn

Indra Nooyi’s life demonstrates the power of balance, dedication, and sincerity. While she was a sharp and decisive leader in the business world, she never let go of her compassion and love for family. Holding ambition and empathy together is never easy.

Yet she achieved it, becoming a symbol of possibility for women and immigrants around the world. Indra Nooyi teaches us that while we cannot have everything, giving our best with genuine intent allows us to gain what truly matters most.