‘I have no attachment to people’: What Anushka Sharma’s approach to maintaining work-life balance teaches us about detachment

The art of detachment

Anushka’s admission reveals that emotional detachment is not an inherent trait but a learned strategy. Here’s how to attain it:

Delhi-based psychologist Dr Riya Singh, who specialises in workplace stress and emotional intelligence, told indianexpress.com: “Emotional detachment is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean someone is cold or uncaring. In high-pressure professions, detachment is a coping mechanism. It allows individuals to maintain focus, protect their mental health, and avoid being manipulated or hurt by transient professional relationships.”

The actors’ approach, the psychologist added, reflects this principle — she treats her work as a job, acknowledging that relationships in such settings are often transactional. By understanding this early, she has been able to navigate her career with clarity and professionalism.

The cost of emotional investment

The entertainment industry, like many high-stakes professions, can be unforgiving. Emotional investment in colleagues can lead to disappointment when loyalty is conditional on success. As Anushka observed, “People just treat you on the basis of your success… everyone.”

Career coach Ravi Verma explained, “In sectors like film, finance, or corporate leadership, social bonds are often tied to achievement and status. Professionals who learn early to separate personal feelings from career interactions tend to experience less burnout and fewer interpersonal conflicts. This doesn’t mean they are incapable of meaningful relationships — it means they prioritise where their emotional energy goes.”

Detachment is not isolation

Experts believe that emotional detachment can empower individuals to make objective decisions, free from the influence of office politics, favouritism, or personal biases.

Dr Singh elaborated, “Learning to manage emotional attachment is part of emotional intelligence. It allows people to respond strategically rather than react impulsively. In Anushka’s case, it also enables her to focus on her craft and production ventures without being distracted by interpersonal drama.”

Interestingly, detachment doesn’t necessarily mean isolation. Professionals can cultivate supportive networks outside of transactional environments — such as family, friends, and mentors — while maintaining composure in highly competitive arenas.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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