Personal success multiplies when you support others to succeed

Introduce yourself in a few words..

Hello! My name is Svetoslav Vasilev and I have been working in the IT sector for nearly 20 years. My career has always been related to software engineering and leadership – two areas that inspire me and in which I continue to develop. Currently, I am Director of Engineering at the Norwegian software company Cobuilder, where I am involved in building software solutions and supporting the development of talented teams.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

A dynamic journey filled with challenges and opportunities. I have gone through different roles, from software engineer to team leader, software manager, and engineering director. Each stage has shaped me not only as a professional but also as a person.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path?

There is not a single choice that decides everything. The small steps every day are important. Still, I would highlight the moment when I took my first leadership role. Until then, my success depended mainly on me and the results I achieved. That was when I realized that true success comes when you can build successful teams and inspire the people around you, helping others to succeed. The shift from "I" to "we" shaped my path.

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

I believe that I have been and am lucky to work with people from whom I have learned a lot. In the beginning, I imagined the IT world mainly as "writing code," but quickly realized that the perspective is much broader, from technology to people and business. Today, with all the available information, anyone who is curious and goal-oriented can find their path much faster and unleash their potential.

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

For me, besides the profession, it is important to consider the different roles that it can offer. We often choose a profession or role based on our interests and talents. The truth, however, comes when you immerse yourself in it. If it’s not yours – there’s nothing wrong with changing direction. This is not a failure, but experience and new opportunities.

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

At the moment, with the rise of AI, the dynamics are very high. Technologies are changing rapidly and if a person is not up to date with trends, they risk falling behind and not being relevant in the job market. The ability to effectively use AI tools will be critical. On the other hand, soft skills - emotional intelligence, communication, critical thinking, adaptability, and the ability to learn throughout life will become increasingly valuable.

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

In fact, it is not necessary to appear uninterested - quite the opposite. Contacts are built on genuine curiosity and a desire for mutual benefit. The network is not a list of people, but relationships. If you provide value and support others, the contacts come naturally and the relationships are sustainable.

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

I would not point to a specific mistake because we all make mistakes. The most important thing is to analyze them, learn from them, and not repeat them. Sometimes it is precisely our mistakes that allow us to learn new skills and grow professionally and personally. In fact, the biggest mistake would be for a person to stop learning.

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

The clearest signal is when the environment starts to conflict with your values and ethics. When you feel constant stress, lack of energy and motivation, that is a sign to seriously think about the situation. Sometimes the best solution is to leave, instead of compromising with yourself. Because success loses its meaning if it is achieved in a way that contradicts your beliefs.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

Probably I wouldn’t change anything in my career so far, but if I were starting over, I would strive even earlier to see “the big picture” – to connect the projects and people I work with, and to understand the deeper meaning of work. Every challenge over the years has been a valuable lesson that today allows me to pass on my knowledge and support the development of others.

How to maintain our motivation in times of stagnation?

When motivation declines, the reason is often that we have stayed too long in our comfort zone. It gives a false sense of security and keeps us stagnant. Motivation returns when we have the courage to step out – with a new skill, project, or hobby, whether in the work environment or outside of it. Personally, I choose activities that inspire and challenge me – recently this includes participating in scientific forums and writing publications that open new horizons for me and connect me with interesting people. Even small challenges awaken curiosity and restore motivation because true growth begins beyond the comfortable.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

With clear boundaries and priorities. Balance comes when you know how to say "no" and make time for the people and things that truly matter.

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

When you lose the pleasure and passion for what you do. If you lack energy for new challenges, feel burnout or boreout, it may be time to consider a new beginning, even in a completely different direction. Sometimes it’s better to “hit the woods” – to take a new path that brings you joy and meaning, rather than staying in an environment that no longer inspires you.

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

Step out of your comfort zone – that is the real catalyst for success! Be curious, brave, and bold. Set goals and have the discipline to follow them. Strive to see the “big picture” and don’t be afraid to jump over barriers along your way. Experiment, take risks, and dive into the “deep end” – that’s where opportunities are born. Surround yourself with inspiring people and enjoy the journey itself, not just the end goal.

What is your definition of a “successful career”?

For me, a successful career is not measured only by personal achievements, but also by how much the people around you succeed thanks to your support and the positive impact you leave in the lives of others. A career is a path and it is important not only where you reach, but also with whom you walk along it.