Search for the "pleasant" fatigue of the workday

Introduce yourself in a few words…

My name is Veronika Godeva - a bachelor's degree in "Biomanagement and Sustainable Development" and a master's in "Business Psychology". I work in the field of Human Resources, with experience in all key areas in the field. Currently, I am focused on the administrative part of HR processes. But communication with people remains my favorite part of the job.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

The definition that I think best describes my career is "the right one“. Of course, my path started with attempts in different fields, which led me to office work, which I later realized I really enjoy.   

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

The most important choice for me was to not be afraid to try different professions. Over time, I realized that understanding what you don’t want to do is just as valuable as knowing what you love.

For me, it has always been a priority to return home satisfied and with the "pleasant" fatigue of the workday. It was this search process that helped me orient myself professionally and choose the direction that truly fits me.

At one point, my former manager noticed my communication skills and directed me towards the field of Human Resources – something for which I am truly grateful.

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

I would have liked to be told that it’s not necessary to have a clear and precise plan from the very beginning. I believe that trying, searching, and even making mistakes are part of building a fulfilling career.

Every choice I made and every job has contributed to my personal and professional growth. Meetings with professionals from different fields enriched me and helped me shape my own identity.

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

As I mentioned before - through experience. A person can hardly understand which profession is suitable for them just by assumptions. Until you dive in, try, and give yourself time to get used to the rhythm of a given job, you cannot know if it suits you.

In my opinion, it is also important for a person to shake off the idea of the "ideal" workplace – one without stress, disputes, and challenges. Every environment has its difficulties and specifics. What matters more is whether you feel useful, valued, and developing.

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

I definitely believe that soft skills such as resilience, adaptability, and quick learning will continue to be in demand and valued in the coming years. The world we live in is changing at an extraordinary pace, and these changes directly impact business and work processes.

Individuals who resist changes and cannot be flexible in their professional environment will soon face serious challenges. Therefore, I believe that future candidates need to develop not only their technical skills but also their soft skills, as these will help them succeed in the professional environment and build their authenticity.

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

Building a network of contacts is most successful when it is based on genuine interest and mutual benefit, not just on immediate need – exploitation.

It is important to focus on building relationships, not just "collecting" contacts. This means actively listening, offering help and support, without expecting anything in return.  It is important to be sincere with people. This way, contacts are built naturally.

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

At the beginning of my career, I was worried when I made a mistake. Unsuccessful steps made me doubt myself, but over time I realized that this is part of the process. In fact, it is these lessons that have helped me and continue to help me to this day.

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

For me, a toxic work environment is one where you feel constantly exhausted, unrespected, and cannot be yourself. It is important, when you feel that you are constantly tense, unmotivated, and lacking satisfaction, to consider a change.

Work is a space where you can develop as a person and feel useful. And change, on your part, is the way to find it.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

I don’t think I would do anything radically different. Every  choice I made and every decision I took has led me to the place I am today. I believe that it is through these trials and errors that I have built myself as a professional and a person.

 

How to maintain our motivation in times of stagnation?

Personally, when I feel a drop in my motivation, I give it a little time and space. Sometimes a drop in motivation is a reflection of accumulated fatigue, and a short break can be very refreshing. It is also important to accept that motivation is not a constant and it is normal for it to have its peaks and troughs. We just need to learn to be as productive as possible and to use  both its states for different activities.

How to achieve balance between professional and personal life?

For me, the balance between work and personal life is a matter of priorities and boundaries. When you have clearly defined boundaries, you know when to say "stop" and take time for yourself and your loved ones.

Of course, it is not always easy – work requires consistency and pursuit of goals and meeting deadlines, but frequently sacrificing personal time rarely leads to sustainable success. The lack of rest and the lack of sharing with loved ones will not lead to the desired results anyway. Exhaustion is not beneficial for either your career or for us in the long run.

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

When work stops bringing satisfaction, sense, and joy, I think it’s time to change your career. When the moment comes when you don’t think about the next step, finances don’t excite you, and you don’t get up enthusiastically for the workday, it’s time to think and rethink your direction.

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

I would give a universal piece of advice -  to not stop trying and not be afraid to make mistakes. True success comes through persistence and the lessons we learn from failures. It is important to keep moving forward.

What is yourdefinition of a "successful career"?

For me, a successful career is not just a matter of titles. It is a combination of numerous personal and professional achievements that go hand in hand. Career growth is directly related to the development of the personality. Success in a career comes from the ability to value yourself, set boundaries, and act with morality and intellect.