Search for what makes you lose track of time

Imagine yourself in a few sentences..

My name is Lyudmila Romanova and I have been professionally developing in the field of human resources for over 15 years. I have always believed that work has the deepest meaning when it contributes to the well-being of others. In recent years, my interests have focused on topics of job satisfaction, intrinsic motivation, and the psychology behind the choices we make in our lives and careers.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood? 

I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and helping animals; in my childhood imagination, this meant having a huge shelter for all kinds of animals, which would fill my daily life. :)

At what age did you earn your first money? Tell us an interesting story?

I earned my first money at 17 years old. I will never forget the moment when I paid my first phone bill with it – that was a real sign of independence. For the first time, I realized not only the value of money but also how different it feels when you earn it yourself. A small but important life lesson.

What are the main factors and examples that shape us as individuals at an earlier age and form our interests?

What is your recipe for curiosity, sources of information, and inspiration at this stage of our human development? The main factors that shape us as individuals from an early age often come from our family – their interests, hobbies, and values are the first examples that shape us. But the earlier children have the opportunity to touch on diverse sources of information and inspiring personalities, the richer their understanding of the world and the possibilities before them becomes.

In my opinion, it is extremely important from childhood to carefully observe the talents and natural interests of children. This is where time and resources should be directed – not only to develop their skills but also with the perspective that they may become a future profession or calling. Curiosity is nurtured when there is access to inspiring examples, the freedom to experiment, and support to follow what truly excites you.

Has there been any significant change in your perceptions in a more mature age about what motivates you to do or not do something?

Over the years, I wouldn't say that the essence of what motivates me has changed – the result has always been my main driving force. What has changed is the result itself that I strive for. The path to achieving it also remains important – I have always believed that the way we achieve something is no less significant than the goal itself. In a more mature age, I realize better what the effort is worth to me and what the “right” direction is, but the main internal impulse – the drive for results – remains the same.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was this decision correct, viewed from today's perspective?

I believe that there are no right or wrong decisions, only lessons learned along the way!

Share more about your interests, knowledge, skills, and hobbies?

My interests are closely related to psychology – especially with topics like human relationships, our deep emotional needs, and the ways in which experienced traumas affect our ability to unfold our full potential. I am excited about the process of self-discovery and inner transformation.

My hobbies are diverse, but they all have a common thread – self-care and a full experience of the present. I love spending time in nature, traveling through the beautiful corners of Bulgaria, flying a drone, reading books, experimenting in the kitchen, and enjoying beauty rituals that bring me a sense of harmony and balance. Mental health is also an important topic for me, and I often seek ways to maintain and develop it.

Would you change your profession today and which fields of activity capture your interest?

Yes, I would definitely change my profession! I believe that the dynamics of the modern world require us to be adaptive, open to change, and constantly seek personal satisfaction through new knowledge and skills. I am attracted to fields that are completely new to me – ones where I can start from scratch, learn with curiosity, and develop step by step. For me, the most valuable thing is not only the end goal but the process of growth and the pleasure of expanding my horizons.

They say that personal branding is everything that people say about you when you are not in the same room with them. What would you like to hear today?

If personal branding is what people say about us when we are not in the room, then I would like to hear that I am a good and responsible person. For me, these qualities are at the core of both our personal and professional achievements – they are not easily learned but are crucial for how others perceive us. I believe that true success lies in having your name associated with quality, integrity, and commitment – in short, with well-done work, regardless of the field.

Emotional intelligence, adaptability, and flexibility, as well as our soft skills, are key conditions for success in recent years. How do you cope with the daily challenges of life to stay in good shape and mood?

To cope with daily challenges and maintain good condition – both emotionally and physically – I try to set aside time for myself every day and for the things that bring me joy. This can be a short morning meditation, a fragrant cup of coffee shared with a loved one, or a walk in nature. I seek balance between the dynamics of everyday life and moments of mindful self-care. I believe that it is precisely in these small but significant rituals that the resilience we all need to face life with mood and stability lies.

What are the most important conclusions you have drawn so far about maintaining the right communication considering the different characters of the people you meet every day  – colleagues, friends, close ones?

The most important conclusion I have drawn about effective communication with different people – whether they are colleagues, friends, or close ones – is that despite the differences in perceptions and behavior, most of us share similar values and aspirations. Every person has their own path and perspective, and that is why it is important to approach with patience, understanding, and respect. I have learned that truly listening is far more powerful than just speaking. The differences between us are not an obstacle – they are a wealth from which we can draw, learn, and develop ourselves, complementing our own gaps through the perspectives of others.

What do you think about money? What is their influence on your life? What is your advice to people who often ask themselves questions related to money and how sufficient they are?

Over time, I have realized that money is an important resource, but not the ultimate goal. They can create comfort and opportunities, but do not carry meaning and satisfaction if they are not in service of something deeper. For a long time, I believed that security comes only through financial success, but my experience has shown that sometimes "less" leads to more – more freedom, more time, more inner peace. Money is a means – it is valuable when we use it consciously and do not lose ourselves in the pursuit of it. My advice is not to measure our worth through them, but to place them in the context of the life we want to live.

What is the most valuable career advice you would give to people?

The most valuable advice I can give is to be true to yourself and to follow what inspires you. Success is not only hidden in skills but in the passion with which we apply them. Seek what makes you lose track of time, what energizes you – that is where your strength lies. When work is in harmony with your inner world, satisfaction is inevitable, and success is just a matter of time.