Johannes Basten Q&A

 

What drives you?
Seeing how ideas turn into reality 
 
What inspires you?
People who don't give up even when facing serious life challenges 
 
Strongest influences
My dad, who never gave up and my best friend who carries on being positive, even though life is caving in all around him 
 
Other interests
My family, travelling and exploring, (digital) photography, being outdoors, sailing (beginners), food and drink 
 
Favourite quotation
The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."    --Nelson Mandela
 
Best decision
Leaving the corporate world in March 2003 and setting up on my own again 
 
Greatest regret
Not having taken a gap year to travel the world between school and university and not leaving the corporate world earlier 
 
Happiest business moment
Every large sale that I have achieved in any business I have been involved in 
 
What would you change about British business if you were given the opportunity?
Cut the red tape that stifles small businesses 
 
Fantasy job
Having a team of people who can turn my ideas into reality without me having to do any of the hard work 
 
Most admired businessperson
I know it's not very original, but it is that Branson feller 
 
Least favourite personal characteristic
My impatience and being hot-tempered 
 
Pet hate/s
Speed cameras, people who don't take responsibility for their own lives, arrogant people 
 
Most over-used phrase
My wife says my most overused phrases are: 'I'll finish in ten minutes' and 'I'll just check my emails' 
 
Other people's most over-used phrase
'To be honest', 'It wasn't my fault….' 
 
What makes you laugh?
'Frasier', 'Becker', 'The Simpsons' and Monthy Python. An evening out with my old school mates (or any other 'mates' for that matter). 
 
Favourite city
Stockholm 
 
Greatest extravagance/s
Eating out, wine and holidays 
 
Current reading
'High Society' - Ben Elton; 'The Complete Guide to Digital Photography' - Michael Freeman 
 
Favourite albums
'Bat Out of Hell' - Meatloaf; 'The Platinum Collection' - Queen, 'Who's Next' - The Who, 'Tommy' - The Who'