My problem with clothes. I’ve got an issue, haven’t I? I’m not a fella in a band who can turn up in his T-shirt and jeans. I’ve got the whole drama of what I’m going to wear: the hair, the makeup. All that preening and pruning that adds to the stress. I have begun to hate that perfectionist in me.
Which trait do you most dislike in yourself?
Question
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Identity & self
Question
Which moment embarrassed you most?
Failure & regret
Question
Aside from a property, what is the most expensive thing you have bought?
Money & investment
Question
What is your greatest fear?
Identity & self
Question
Who most deserves an apology from you, and why?
Failure & regret
Question
What is the worst thing anyone has said to you?
Failure & regret
Originally asked
The Guardian, to a different person each week, The Q&A
The Guardian's The Q&A has retained this Proust-derived prompt from at least 2007 through 2026, and ABC independently put it to the Obamas in 2011.
You answer as yourself. Nobody on FLAPSS answers as anybody else.
My complete lack of organisation that affects all part of my life – my living space, my being in touch with people, everything. I am a walking shitshow.
The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 31 August 2024 source ↗
Others on this question
View all 243 →Self-criticism.
I’m chronically late. It’s magical thinking: I actually believe I can take a shower and get dressed in three minutes, that the train will be pulling into the station the moment I arrive….
I get distracted by anything and everything, so all my projects finish just before the deadline. Sometimes, it’s a bit too tight.
More from Romesh Ranganathan
View profile →A comedian or rapper. You can tell by the way I’m dressed that I’m a frustrated rapper.
I was once walking through Edinburgh with someone in the industry. I was quite drunk and I slowly wet myself.
The arcade game, Guitar Hero. I’ve got the full unit in my house. It’s so sad.
My children ending up anything like me.
When I was 17 I launched into a rant at my dad about what I thought of him. We never spoke about it again and then he passed away. I would love to say sorry to him.
My wife when I tried out some new material on her, said: “I’m sure the people who like you would like that.”
More on identity & self
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