Motivation is not a given

Introduce yourself in a few words..

My name is Hristina Staneva with over 18 years of experience in the fields of marketing, advertising, event management, organizational development, and strategic partnerships in the public, private, and NGO sectors.

After 11 years as deputy director at the Sofia Opera and Ballet, since September 2024 I am the executive director of the Council of Women in Business in Bulgaria – a business organization that aims to promote good practices and programs for encouraging the professional development of women in small and medium-sized businesses and their advancement to managerial positions, as well as to support young professionals and talents to realize their potential in Bulgaria.

With some of the most respected women in senior management in Bulgaria on the Board of Directors, the newly established Advisory Council, and the strong community of members, partners, and volunteers, the Council provides support to women, promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion, as well as supports young people at the beginning of their professional journey through a number of its programs and initiatives.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

I would describe my career path as interesting, dynamic, diverse, and filled with many challenges.

For me, it is important that work brings me satisfaction.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path In?

My choice to stay and study and develop in Bulgaria, rather than abroad.

What would you have liked to know at the beginning of your career, but no one told you?

I would have been more confident and prepared if I had a mentor in my first professional steps.

How can a person understand which profession is suitable for them?

At the beginning of their career, it is good for young people to give themselves time and intern in different sectors to feel which profession will make them look forward to going to work. This time will provide them with the opportunity to develop a strategy for their career development.

Which skills according to Inyou will be key in the next 10 years?

In 10 years, the key skills will be the same as they are now – the ability to learn quickly and adapt to changes.

With the dynamics in technology and the emergence of AI in professional and personal aspects of life, the modern person must be curious and eager for new knowledge. The ability to communicate will be crucial.

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

The ability to maintain good and correct relationships with people, to show respect, the ability to build trust, and to surround ourselves with people from different professions and interests is an extremely valuable resource.

It is important to find an environment where we can exchange experiences and ideas.

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

To my happiness, I have not made an irreparable mistake. I have always taken personal responsibility for my actions. I believe it is important to analyze our mistakes and never let them happen again.

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

The signs of a toxic work environment are many and varied, but one should not compromise with health and personal life.

Stress, lack of respect and recognition of team successes lead to a decline in motivation and professional development. The moment you feel that work does not bring you satisfaction and happiness is the time to leave. 

What would you do differently if you could start over?

I would not change anything. I am grateful for the experience I have gained. From every person, with whom I have had the opportunity to work, I have learned a lot.

Regardless of the challenges I have faced, they have helped me to develop as a professional.

How to maintain our motivation in times of stagnation?

Motivation is not a given. A person must seek the way to be motivated. When we feel stagnation, I recommend traveling, reading an interesting and inspiring book, attending an event (even outside our professional interests) or enhancing our qualifications.

Sometimes, when we feel overwhelmed, it is important to take a break. Rest is not waste of time, it is an investment in long-term success.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

There is no formula for achieving a balance between professional and personal life. We determine at which moment it is more important to devote our energy to professional or family commitments.

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

The moment the thought of a career change arises.

It is important to understand what is a priority for us, what we want to do and what we do not.

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

Be honest, able to take responsibility, and keep your promises. Demonstrating innovation will bring you personal satisfaction from the results achieved.

What is Inyour definition of a “successful career”?

To have a successful career, it is important to be happy with what we do. Work should be an inspiration and motivation for conquering peaks.