Motivation Makes You a Beast

Introduce yourself in a few sentences

I am Albena Ignatova – a master's degree in economics with 18 years of experience in the field of trade. Over the years, I have gone through various levels in the profession – from trader, to team manager, regional manager, and manager of "Development of Trade Structures", to head of the "Sales" department.
In my practice, I developed all the key qualities of a successful trader. However, what was even more valuable to me was that I learned to pass on these skills – to motivate my teams, to build talents, and to develop entrepreneurial thinking in people.
I learned to differentiate between a trader, manager, leader, and entrepreneur – and I can easily step into any of these roles. After so many years of experience, I decided that I wanted to pass on my knowledge to people who want to develop and achieve more through their trading skills.
On a personal level, I am a mother of two already grown children – and I consider them my greatest success in life.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

From an early age, I started training in competitive dancing and dreamed of reaching international class, to be part of a famous Bulgarian dance couple. My dreams have always been related to stage, sports, and creativity. However, life directed me in another direction 😊

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

I earned my first money at the age of 14. Through my mother's contract, I started working with Oriflame. Cosmetics was a natural continuation of the stage makeup from dancing. In the small town where I lived, people recognized me from training and concerts, and this helped me sell successfully.

What factors shape our interests and personality at an early age?

Three main factors:

1. Parents – I learned hard work and honesty from them. These are fundamental qualities for any success.

2. Sports – it taught me discipline, perseverance, and creativity. It shaped me in ways that parents cannot – it made me a fighter.

3. Environment and friends – there is a saying: “Show me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are.” A bad environment can undermine the efforts of both parents and sports.

The recipe for curiosity? Reading, watching, and searching for inspiring examples – athletes, creators, inventors. I have always been interested in successful people.

How does motivation change with age?

A major transformation occurred when I stopped sports because my school – PMG Vratsa – required enormous commitment. My parents made the decision for me: “You can't carry two watermelons under one arm.” I was devastated.
At that time, my motivation to prove myself and create a recognizable name was immense. I felt what it was like to transform in a crisis. In negative situations, a person can unlock the beast within themselves – in a good way.

How did you choose what to study?

The decision was entirely mine. Although I became a mother right after I graduated from high school, I was already a student and did not interrupt a single semester. It was the right decision – and proof of my desire to achieve my goals.

What inspires you today? Interests, hobbies, skills?

My hobby – dancing – turned into a passion, and then into a source of strength. Today, I recharge when I solve a case, close a deal, or help someone cope.
I love sports – I have tried yoga, taebo, pilates, and recently I am dancing again after a 30-year break. I am proud of that.
I adore traveling – both for work and personally. I am currently on the verge of my doctorate – I love to learn and read in my free time.

Would you change your profession?

Only for something creative – like dancing, theater, painting. As a child, I participated in a theater troupe with Krasi Radkov and Godzhi 😊
Today, I sometimes paint – and quite well. I would only change my profession for creativity, but it is already too late 😊

What do you want people to say about you when you are not in the room?

“Albena is a wonderful person and an exceptional trader!”

How do you cope with the challenges of everyday life?

A colleague from the management academy asked me: “Albena, what substances are you on?” 😊
In fact, the secret is not substances, but two key character traits – empathy and love for people with all their differences. This is the foundation of soft skills.

How do you maintain proper communication with different people?

I respect differences. I do not try to change people, but to bring their strengths to the forefront. Weaknesses are only balanced – not emphasized. The key is acceptance and patience.

What do you think about money?

I am a spiritual person. For me, money is a means, not an end. It is important to lead a normal standard of living, but I do not submit to the material. First, I ask myself: will what I want truly make me happy? Only after that do I think about whether it will bring me money.

What is the most valuable career advice you would give?

Turn your hobby into a profession. This brings joy, meaning, and long-term satisfaction.
I am a creator at heart, I love to help – that is why my personal brand is connected with caring for people.