Do not chase success as a goal – seek meaning, and success will follow you

Introduce yourself in a few words..

Evelina Slavkova, mother and sociologist. Co-founder of the "Trend" agency

How would you describe your career in a few words?

Non-linear, challenging, filled with lessons and rediscovery. A constant search for meaning, people, and systems. A path between observation, analysis, and change.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path?

To choose long-term development over short-term comfort. Sociology is a profession that allows me to look beyond the obvious – to ask important questions and seek deep answers for society.

What would you like to know at the beginning of your career that no one told you? 

Two things: that success does not mean comfort, but rather means more responsibility, more challenging of oneself, and sometimes an attempt to tame oneself, and that sociology is not just an academic discipline – it can be a powerful tool for real change, as long as the right environment and role are found.

How can one understand which profession is suitable for them?

When their activity brings satisfaction, even when it is difficult, and they want to become better at it over time, and when they are deeply concerned about the issues it addresses – not just the opportunities it offers. The suitable profession is often where interest meets persistence.

What skills do you think will be key in the next 10 years?

Four important things I see:  critical thinking and data analysis (including qualitative), emotional intelligence, intersectoral communication – between science, technology, and society, and the ability to understand social processes in a global context.

How to build a network of useful contacts without appearing interested? 

By showing genuine interest in the people we communicate with – listening, reciprocity, and contribution, not just seeking benefit. In sociology, this is called social capital – it grows with trust.

What is the biggest mistake you have made in your career, and what did you learn from it?

I will probably see the big mistake at the end of my career. Nevertheless, if I have to note something, it is the naivety that I would do only sociology without politics.

How to recognize a toxic work environment and when is it time to leave?

When there is a systemic lack of respect, communication is filled with blame, fear, or competition, and there is no room for development. It is time to leave when our value as a person is diluted.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

I would be more confident in myself.

How to maintain motivation in times of stagnation?

By returning to the "why" we chose this path. Conversations with inspiring colleagues, a new project, or even a short withdrawal often bring back focus.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

With clear boundaries, honest conversations with oneself and colleagues, and acceptance that complete "balancing" is a dynamic process, not a static state.

When is it time to change our career, not just the job?

When the feeling of dissatisfaction comes not from the environment, but from the very content of the work – when we are no longer excited about the problems we are solving.

If you had to give just one piece of advice to people seeking success, what would it be?

Do not chase success as a goal – seek meaning, and success will follow.

What is your definition of a “successful career”?

One that leaves a mark – on people, on the environment, on thinking – and at the same time allows you to remain true to yourself.