Make choices that bring you meaning, satisfaction, and development

Introduce yourself in few sentences!

I am Dr. Eng. Petya Petrova, a cybersecurity expert and owner of CYBER CONSULTING GROUP Ltd. – a consulting services company in the field of cybersecurity. I work with organizations from various sectors, helping them build resilience and meet the requirements of European regulations and international standards. I am a lecturer at a higher education institution – because for me, knowledge has real value when it is passed on and developed together with future specialists.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

As a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher – to pass on knowledge and inspire people. Today I teach cybersecurity and feel that this dream has been realized in a modern, technological direction. Throughout my professional journey, I have trained – students, specialists from public and private organizations – but I have never stopped learning myself. I believe that this two-way process – sharing knowledge, experience, and innovative ideas while enriching your own – is the most valuable path to development.

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

Even before I graduated from high school – I first helped in our family private business with accounting, while at the same time giving lessons to classmates in technical drawing. They didn’t always pay me in money, but it gave me immense pleasure to feel needed and to have actively contributed to the work process. Thus, I not only earned my first money, but I also felt early on the responsibility of work and the importance of discipline and entrepreneurship.

When I spent my vacations in the village with my grandparents, I always found a “business plan.” My grandmother taught me to knit with two hooks, and I decided to make her a hair diadem. The neighbor saw it and wanted one too – and that inspired me to go with a list through all the houses in the village (since there were only about 40 inhabited) and ask each grandmother if she wanted her own diadem. In the end, I made about 20 pieces – that was my first real entrepreneurial experience.

What are the main factors and examples that shape us as individuals at an early age and form our interests? What is your recipe for curiosity, sources and fountains of information and inspiration at this stage of our human development?

At an early age, we are most strongly shaped by family, the environment, and the people around us. Grandparents, parents, and teachers – these are our first mentors. Even small experiences can unlock great interests. For example, when my grandmother taught me to knit, I immediately turned that skill into a “business” with diadems – and even then I touched the power of entrepreneurship and creativity.

My “recipe” for curiosity has always been a combination of reading, observation, and practical action. I have been inspired by books and conversations with people, but most of all – by trying and experimenting. I believe that this is what shapes us as individuals.

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

Yes, over time there has been a change. When I was younger, I was driven by the desire to prove myself – to myself and to others. In more mature age, my motivation comes more from the meaning and benefit of what I do. I have learned to prioritize only those things that bring me satisfaction, development, and constructiveness.

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

The decision to pursue higher education was mine, and I was guided by my interest in exact sciences and technologies. The choice of engineering specialty and cybersecurity turned out to be correct – today I see that this is a profession that brings me satisfaction.

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

Cybersecurity is not only my profession but also my passion – I enjoy following new trends, analyzing, and seeking solutions to real problems. Teaching is also a big part of my interests – meeting with students and specialists energizes me and motivates me to be more innovative and creative in my work.

Outside of my profession, I love to read and travel – books and new places always bring me inspiration. Writing – whether scientific or more accessible – helps me organize my thoughts and share what excites me. Cooking is my hobby – I experiment in the kitchen, and my greatest pleasure is to see the smiles of my loved ones when they try something new.

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

I would not change my profession – it gives me a sense of dynamism and meaning. But if I had to step outside the field of technology, I would definitely lean towards something more creative – like cooking or even interior design. I enjoy creating beauty and comfort, and this is a completely different field from computers. I am also inspired by travels and encounters with different cultures – they expand my horizons in a way that no technology can replace.

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

I would like to hear that people perceive me as someone they can trust – both professionally and personally. That I am consistent, responsible, and ready to help. If they say that I leave a mark with my knowledge and that I can inspire others to develop, that would be the greatest recognition for me.

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?

I maintain good shape by seeking balance between work and personal life. Traveling, cooking, and spending time with my loved ones give me energy, and I view difficulties as lessons that make me stronger.

It is true that a person is most successful when they are adaptable to situations.

What are the most important conclusions you have made so far about maintaining the right communication considering the different characters of the people you meet daily – colleagues, friends, loved ones?

I have learned that there is no universal approach – every person is different. It is important first to listen and respect the perspective of the other, and then to adapt our way of communicating. Balance in communication is the key to proper communication.

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?

Money is a variable quantity – today it exists, tomorrow it may not. They provide security and freedom, but they should not be the goal in themselves. They are sufficient when they bring us peace, not when they control us. The true constant in life remains happiness, meaning, and satisfaction from what we do.

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

The most valuable career advice I would give? Never stop learning and be curious. Knowledge and the ability to adapt are the greatest capital in today's dynamic world. Another important thing is to make choices that make sense to you – not because of others' expectations, but because they bring you satisfaction and development. Success is not only in achieved positions but in staying true to yourself and loving what you do.