Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing

My name is Genís Puigvert Subirà, I’m from Barcelona and my passion is around sport and business. I have many hobbies but the ones that stand out are gastronomy and cinema. So, if you don’t find me doing some sport you’ll probably find me eating or at the movies.

I started my professional career at a top audit company but I noticed after a while that it was not for me. I did a quick introspection exercise just before I quit to figure out what my passions were and, obviously, the idea of doing something related to sports was so thrilling. I decided to study a Master’s Degree in Sports Management to know about the specificities of the industry and, while doing it, it became clear that I had to try and do something on my own, as I’ve always wanted. So I founded a company; I’ll talk about it in a bit (spoiler: it didn’t go well). After that, I found the perfect organization to start working at, which is the Catalan Sports Cluster (INDESCAT). It is an association of companies, all from the sports sector in Catalunya. Its objective is to improve the competitiveness of the whole ecosystem by participating in innovation projects, making impactful connections, etc. I’ve been here for almost 3 years now.

How was the idea for your dream born, and how has it developed over time?

I’ll explain the entrepreneurial process with my own case.

To have my own company was my dream. Once I decided that sports was the industry in which I wanted to do something, it comes the first phase came: come up with an idea that could work, which is the easiest and funniest part, because it is just imagination. After that, you have to start moving.

Figure out the team, the key partners, the business model, etc. I was foolish enough to believe I could do it alone, without a team around me, that I could outsource everything that was not my job (meaning technology, legal, etc.). But you can’t, because there is not an alignment of interests; you don’t control the timing or the money. You must bring on board people with complementary skills to yours that can take care of the key areas from the inside.

Another aspect is that you must always keep an eye on the market. That’s why controlling the timing is crucial. In my case, when I considered the product to be ready, the market had already changed, so I decided not to launch.

So, it is a failure from the business perspective, but I’ve learned so many things along the way. Having said all that, an entrepreneur always has something inside that is saying: “try again…” Maybe I will.

What are your plans for the future? What do you wish to achieve in the next 5 years?

What we are building at INDESCAT is something special, connecting people and companies and making things happen. I made the decision some time ago that I don’t want to leave the sports industry, so I hope that if we talk in 5 years time I’ll be in a place where I feel happy (which is my number one goal in life), but also bring value by helping people be happier. 

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far?

Just try to enjoy the journey. It is something that is often being said, but a lot of people are still only focused on the end goals. There is a possibility that you never reach those goals, so if you haven’t enjoyed the journey the disappointment will be much worse.

Also, you learn more from the mistakes than from the successes, I have no doubt about it. If I found another company in the future, I know exactly what I must not do.

How do you find work and life balance and prevent burnout?

As I come from a big audit firm, in which there were certain times of the year when you never knew the ending hour, I learned to set boundaries. There are some isolated cases where you must stay a little longer, but I made a pact with myself that I would respect my “go home” time.

Once I have this first part covered, I need to do sport. Probably an hour at the gym is enough.

I also enjoy meeting with friends for a beer or dinner in the middle of the week or going to the cinema to watch a movie that I’m looking forward to. Those are tricks that make weeks pass easily.

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally?

To me, this is a crucial part of my life. Taking care of myself while practicing sport is something that, obviously, it benefits my body and, as a consequence, my health, but also helps me be sharper mentally and more available emotionally.

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success?

This is clearly linked to the question above, I need a certain moment to do some sport every day. I usually go to the gym, as it is the easiest thing for me to do because it’s really close to home (and because strength training is a must), but some days it is a padel match, swimming or just walking fast.

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true?

The willingness to try (while being aware that there is a high probability that you fail) is so admirable to me. This quality is so underrated.

Learn as much as possible, be curious. One easy way can be reading, yes, but another level to that is to surround yourself with more intelligent people than yourself and always try to learn. Not only about what they say, but also what they do and how they react under pressure or in certain situations. That can be by simply observing, but if you can ask directly is much better.

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult?

I always get inspired by people who have done great things in sports, in business, or in life. Almost all of them have had a challenging path to reach the top and were still able to overcome difficulties.

What would you say to the people who are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

It is very related to question number 8, I would say: just try.

It is true that it is different if you come from money than if you have to borrow it and have to pay it back (which was my case). But in any case, if you are eager to work hard and invest your time in the project, I think it’s worth a try. And if it doesn’t work, at least you’ll have enjoyed the journey and learned many things.

Thanks so much and have a great summer!

Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing

I am an entrepreneur in the field of gastronomic and rural tourism, and the founder of Pendara.bg. My work is centred around the people who keep local food traditions, knowledge, and skills alive – home cooks and hosts, small independent food producers, artisans, and people creating meaningful places in rural areas and smaller communities.

The dream I am working towards is about much more than building a successful business. I want to help create a more supportive environment for small-scale food producers and tourism entrepreneurs whose work is rooted in local food, culture, and heritage. I want their work to be seen, properly valued, and developed into a sustainable source of income.

On a personal level, this dream is also about growth, freedom, and inspiration. I want to keep learning, meeting new people, discovering new places, and creating projects that have a positive impact not only on my own life, but also on the communities I work with.

How was the idea for your dream born and how has it developed over time?

It all began more than ten years ago with a very personal need: I wanted to find wholesome, genuinely good food for my family. That search led me to meet small farmers and local producers, and I discovered people with remarkable knowledge and skills whose work often remained largely invisible to those living in the cities.

Those encounters eventually led me to help create and develop farmers’ markets. Over time, I realised that bringing local food into the city was not enough. I wanted people to see where it came from, meet the people who produced it, and understand the connection between food, place, and a way of life.

The next natural step was to invite people to travel in the other direction – out to the countryside – through rural tourism experiences. We began by creating opportunities to meet farmers, home cooks, winemakers, and artisans. Over time, Pendara grew from a series of individual initiatives into a platform that develops, showcases, and brings together a wide range of authentic local experiences.

What are your plans for the future? What do you wish to achieve in the next 5 years?

Over the next five years, I would like Pendara.bg to grow into a strong and sustainable model for gastronomic and rural tourism – first in Bulgaria, and gradually across the Balkans. I want to bring more local hosts, food producers, and entrepreneurs into our network and help their ideas reach wider audiences.

One of my biggest ambitions is to develop Pendara Academy into a leading hub for learning, practical business support, and new ideas. I imagine it as a place that brings together professional programmes, hands-on business labs, mentoring, and accessible technology – all designed to help people turn local knowledge and creativity into viable businesses.

I am also deeply committed to advancing higher education in this field and helping to prepare a new generation of gastronomic tourism managers. We need professionals who can connect food, cultural heritage, entrepreneurship, and sustainable regional development – and turn that understanding into real opportunities for places and communities.

Another important part of this vision is building an active business community around Pendara: a space where producers, hosts, chefs, artisans, and tourism professionals can meet, exchange ideas, and create new experiences, routes, products, and market opportunities together.

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far?

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that real change begins with trust between people. When you know the person behind the food, the place, and the work that goes into it, you begin to value the product in a completely different way.

I have also learned that a meaningful cause is not enough on its own. To turn it into something sustainable, you need to test different approaches, build the right processes, and be willing to develop the idea step by step.

Another important lesson is that people do not always recognise the value of the knowledge they carry. Skills that may feel like an ordinary part of daily life to a local host can, in fact, be a form of living cultural heritage. Our role is to help make that knowledge visible and valued without stripping it of its natural context.

And perhaps the most important lesson of all is to hold on to the purpose as the project grows and becomes a business. Growth matters, but it should never come at the expense of trust, authenticity, or respect for the people you work with.

How do you find work-life balance and prevent burnout?

I would not say I have found the perfect formula. When you are building something of your own and care deeply about it, the line between work and personal life can disappear very quickly.

Over time, I have learned to recognise when I need to pause, change my surroundings, and step away from the daily routine. Travelling and spending time in nature help me regain perspective. Sometimes a short trip out of the city, or even a single day without constantly checking my phone, can be more restorative than a long holiday spent still thinking about work.

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally?

Nature, travel, music, and photography are what restore me most. They draw me into a different kind of attention – slower, more observant, and far removed from the pace of everyday business.

Photography teaches me to notice details I might otherwise miss. Music helps me shift my mood and find a different rhythm, while travel brings fresh ideas and reminds me that the world is much bigger than whatever problem is in front of me.

I also try to protect some time when I do not have to be productive. It is not always easy, but I have learned how important it is.

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success?

I do not follow a strict morning routine, and I do not believe there is a single formula for productivity. The habit that matters most to me is staying close to people and to the reality of their work.

I spend a great deal of time learning, researching, and connecting ideas across different fields – food, tourism, education, technology, and local development. I try to turn what I learn into something practical as quickly as possible, whether that is a useful tool, a training programme, or a new format.

Another important habit is testing ideas on a small scale, observing how they work in practice, and gradually building the right processes around them.

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true?

The first is the courage to begin before you have all the answers. If we wait for complete certainty, we may never take that first step. The second is persistence. Dreams rarely come true because of one big breakthrough. More often, they are built through small actions repeated consistently over time. The third is the ability to stay true to your purpose while remaining flexible about how you get there. The goal can stay the same, even when you need to change the path.

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult?

I am most inspired by people who create something meaningful in difficult circumstances: women in small communities who keep traditional recipes and skills alive; families bringing old houses back to life; producers who refuse to compromise on quality; and young people who choose to stay in, or return to, the places they come from.

Whenever I see an idea help someone believe more deeply in the value of their own work, I am reminded of why I started.

What would you say to the people who are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

I would tell them not to wait for the fear to disappear – because that moment may never come. Courage is not the absence of fear; it is choosing to take the next meaningful step despite it.

Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing

I’ve always been driven by purpose over prestige. I grew up in Bulgaria in the 90s, in a lot of instability, and that made me risk-averse by nature, but my parents raised me to believe that hard work gets you anywhere, and I’ve proven that to myself more times than I can count.

My dream was never to be rich. It was to be financially comfortable, to see the world, and to eventually build something of my own. I always had the feeling that I need to make a difference. I’ve now lived, studied, or worked in six countries across three continents, with people from literally every corner of the world, and every one of those experiences confirmed what I believed early on: curiosity and hard work take you further than almost anything else.

My next big project is the one that scares me a little more than the others: building a family, and finally getting the balance right after years of being an overachiever.

How was the idea for your dream born and how has it developed over time?

At 5, I was obsessed with dinosaurs, The Lost World and Indiana Jones. I wanted to be him, exploring, discovering lost worlds and artefacts. At 14, that had turned into something more concrete: work in an international corporation, then retire to an island in a developing country and teach kids. Looking back, I basically did it in reverse. I started working as a teacher at 19, worked in tourism in summers to stay financially independent, did p. The corporate chapter came later and then after experiencing life in a developing country for the first time I decided to pursue a career in international development. 

What stayed constant through all of it, from the dinosaur obsession onward, was the same pull: I wanted to explore, see the world, and understand how differently people think and solve problems. Coming from where I did, that curiosity felt like freedom.

Over the years it shifted from “see the world” to “do something that matters in it.” I care about creating positive change and growing professionally at the same time, not one at the expense of the other. Right now that means combining ambition with an actual life outside of work, something I’m still very much a work in progress on.

What are your plans for the future? What do you wish to achieve in the next five years?

Professionally, I want to keep working at the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship and policy, but the venture-building part isn’t just a five-year plan anymore, it’s already underway. Last year, nudged by a personal low point, I registered my own company. It was a bit of a Munchhausen move: sometimes you have to be the one who pulls yourself out when you’re the one drowning, and for me that meant building something instead of waiting to feel ready.

Alongside my day job, I keep creating the things I wish existed. With two friends, an investor and an actress, I co-created a public debate format tackling the topics that most polarise Bulgarian society. We’ve run 11 debates so far in front of hundreds of people, well beyond our usual circles, with journalists, artists, activists and conservatives on stage actually talking to each other instead of past each other. Separately, after noticing there was no alumni network for the U.S. State Department Professional and Educational exchange program, I established a legal entity when the chance came up at last year’s Balkan alumni summit in North Macedonia. We’re already building that community and hosting a regional conference across four countries in September. 

This week that whole trajectory got a nice validation: I won Capital media’s top scholarship for an Executive MBA in Innovation at WU Executive Academy.

Personally, I’m focused on protecting the balance I’ve fought hard for between ambition and actually having a life.

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far?

Stop trying to please everyone. It’s impossible, and it will drain you and quietly erode your own confidence. I think this is especially true for women in any field.

Don’t chase perfection, get the job done. Every business is understaffed, fast-paced and short on well-defined process. Perfection just means you either work far past your paid hours, or slow everything down, often both.

And here’s my unpopular opinion: that small annual bonus, is it really worth sleeping at your desk for? What’s the actual price you’re paying? Your health, your relationships, your hobbies, your physical activity. We talk about mindfulness constantly for a reason: we need to be as ambitious about our mental health as we are about our careers.

 How do you find work-life balance and prevent burnout?

Working remotely, I try hard to spend evenings and weekends off-screen. Hiking in the mountains and scuba diving (two years in now) have become my reset button. Pushing yourself physically toward a goal is often far more satisfying than the promotion you’re chasing.

I’ve also gotten ruthless about decluttering, and not just my schedule. After moving back to Bulgaria and gathering up luggage scattered across relatives’ and friends’ houses, I realized I owned enough clothes for a small classroom. I sell or donate what’s still good and recycle the rest. Turns out physically decluttering does a lot for mental decluttering too, there’s actual research on that, and it checks out for me.

To reground when things get intense, I do yoga a few times a week and try to breathe consciously the moment I notice my stress levels climbing.

How do you take care of yourself physically, emotionally and mentally?

I try to be a bit of a Renaissance man about it: well-rounded, always feeding the body, the brain and the imagination. Move regularly, eat well, keep learning, keep challenging your own perspective.

I also make a point of doing things that are simply different, sometimes purely creative, just for their own sake. I did a year of acting classes alongside a political academy program, an odd combination at the time. It turned out to be more useful than I ever expected: when my CEO was unexpectedly appointed minister, I stepped in as acting CEO within two days, and that mix of stage presence and political instinct was exactly what the moment needed.

Emotionally, I’ve learned to be kind to myself when I make mistakes or I’m not on top of my game. We’re human. People will always judge us, but only we know everything else going on in our lives at that moment, so we owe ourselves that kindness first.

Personal relationships matter enormously to me, which is exactly why I keep a clear line around them. I maintain genuinely good relationships with my colleagues, but the more private parts of my life I keep separate, some things are just for the people closest to me.

I love spending time with friends. As an extrovert, that’s genuinely how I recharge. But I’ve learned that also means periodically letting go of relationships that no longer serve you, even long-standing acquaintances. Time is your most precious resource, so choose deliberately who you spend it with.

Mentally, I believe learning is lifelong: what you know, nobody can ever take away from you, and there’s always another way to grow. One change surprised me most: after being a night owl my whole life, I’ve finally become an early riser. It was a bumpy transition, but I have far more energy now and drink coffee mostly for the taste these days, not the caffeine.

What daily routines contribute to your success?

Mornings, movement, and asking for what I want.

Becoming a morning person changed my energy levels more than I expected. I move every day in some form. And I’ve learned that asking, for help, for what you actually want, unlocks chains of opportunities you’d never have imagined otherwise. Just do it.

What three principles help people make their dreams come true?

Work hard, but work smart.

Get it done over getting it perfect.

Ask. For help, for opportunities, for what you want. It sets things in motion you can’t plan for in advance.

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult?

I remind myself I’ve been through worse: this obstacle isn’t going to be the thing that gets me down. I tend to go quieter and more introverted in hard times, and I’ve learned to actually seek out a friendly shoulder to cry on when I need it. Naming the issue and the feeling out loud, without spiraling into a complaining loop, is genuinely liberating, it’s the first real step to solving anything. I’d say the same to anyone else: if you feel like you’ve hit a dead end and are genuinely struggling to cope, slow down and ask for help. That’s not weakness, that’s the move.

I also don’t hold grudges. They poison your life and build nothing. Learn the lesson, then move on.

What would you say to people who are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

Ask yourself what’s the actual worst that could happen, and whether you could cope with it. Almost always, you could.

Then ask what’s the best that could happen, because we spend far too much time rehearsing failure and never imagining success.

Learn to fail, and actually learn from it. It’s rarely as final as it feels in the moment. When you’re scared, try to name exactly what’s scaring you: failure, the unknown, the different. Rationalising the irrational is what keeps me grounded enough to take the plunge anyway.

You don’t need the whole plan. You just need the first step. Ready or not, take it.

Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing.

Hi, I’m Kris. I’ve been working in digital marketing for nearly 10 years. The last 5, with a leading role in a marketing agency, collaborating with brands from completely different industries. Today, I am a full-time owner of my time, consulting businesses in terms of marketing strategies, positioning, and effective use of social media channels. About a year and a half ago, I almost reached my breaking point. I realized I needed to dedicate more of my time and energy to something that felt more meaningful on a personal level. Something that could create an impact and leave a positive mark beyond the digital world.

Education has always been close to me in one way or another. My parents are teachers, so I grew up around conversations about schools, students, and the challenges within the educational system in Bulgaria. At the same time, for many years, I’ve been involved with my husband’s educational platform as a side project. I think all of this naturally led me to the dream I’m chasing now – creating change through education and improving the environment in which children grow up and learn.

How was the idea for your dream born and how has it developed over time?

At the end of 2025, during the winter break, I visited a small school in Northwestern Bulgaria. This is the region where I’m originally from, but also the poorest one in the entire EU. The building was empty and freezing cold. Some of the windows were broken, the corridors felt abandoned, and everything looked almost post-apocalyptic. While I was there, I heard stories about children going to school with inadequate winter clothes – one child wearing two different shoes, another with a half-ripped jacket, and a 12-year-old boy whose hands looked like he had been doing physical labor for decades.

That experience stayed with me for a long time. I kept thinking about how easily situations like this have become “normal.” We often talk about education only in terms of grades, teachers, or the system itself, but we forget that for many children, school is also the place where they spend most of their childhood. It reminded me that Bulgaria is much more than the capital city. And this was the beginning of “Adopt a School”.

The campaign started within my closest circle of people, from something that may seem small from the outside: helping provide brand-new winter clothes for all 20 children studying at this school. But once you see that reality up close, you realize these things are never “small.” A warm jacket and proper shoes can make the difference between feeling cold and wet all day or simply being able to focus on being a child.

Over time, I also realized the problem goes far beyond clothing or supplies. The physical environment children learn in matters so much more than we admit. A neglected classroom, broken furniture, cold hallways – these things quietly shape the way children see themselves and their future.

What is your long-term vision for Adopt a School?

In the next few years, I would love to see “Adopt a School” grow into something sustainable and community-driven, not just a one-time campaign or a temporary initiative. One of the biggest goals right now is to move beyond helping with immediate needs and start focusing more on improving the actual school environment. By the end of 2026, my target is to see all four classrooms renovated, creating warmer and more functional spaces, and giving children a place that feels inspiring to learn in.

I think we often underestimate how much physical space affects motivation, confidence, and even a child’s sense of self-worth. When you spend years in neglected classrooms, broken environments slowly start to feel normal. I also hope the initiative can encourage more people and businesses to look beyond the big cities and become actively involved in smaller communities that are often forgotten. There are so many people willing to help – sometimes they just need a cause that feels right, transparent, and close to home.

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far?

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that people actually want to help much more than we think. The problem is that many have lost trust in where their help is going or whether it truly makes a difference. At the same time, I learned that you can’t change everything alone. But you can make other people believe that change is possible. Just looking at the first campaign and the nearly 200,000 views on TikTok showed me how strongly people connect with something real and honest when they can see the impact behind it.

I also like a lot the Kaizen philosophy – the idea that small, consistent improvements eventually lead to meaningful change. I try to apply this mindset in everything I do, and I think it applies to education as well. You don’t need a huge organization or unlimited resources to start making a difference. Many meaningful things begin with a small group of people who simply decide they no longer want to accept something as normal.

And probably the biggest lesson of all – honesty and transparency matter. People connect much more deeply with something real and imperfect than with something polished but emotionally distant.

How do you approach work-life balance while working on something so emotionally demanding?

To be honest, this is still something I’m learning. About a year ago, I was very close to burnout. At some point, I had to completely step away for a while and disconnect. I spent some time in Thailand, mostly just slowing down, being offline, and giving myself the space to reset. It helped me clear my mind and regain perspective.

Before that, even when I was on vacation, I was never really “off.” When I worked at the agency, I used to pack my laptop first every time we traveled, and checking Slack notifications right after landing was just part of the routine. I was physically away, but mentally still fully in work mode. That wasn’t really a break.

Since then, I’ve become much more intentional about balance, and I don’t blame myself for not being constantly productive. There are days when I just stay on the sofa and watch movies, and that’s fine because the next day I have so much more energy that I can get things done three times faster. At home, I also make a conscious effort to stay present. I try to involve my husband in small everyday things like cooking dinner together, watching a movie, or simply spending time without distractions. Those moments help me step out of work mode and reconnect with normal life.

I don’t think balance is something you achieve once and for all. It’s more about constantly making efforts and making sure I don’t lose myself again in the process.

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally?

Travel is probably the main way I take care of myself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Over the past couple of years, we’ve made a conscious effort to take longer trips whenever possible, usually around a month at a time. So far, that has included places like Indonesia, Thailand, and Argentina. Being completely removed from my usual environment helps a lot.

When long trips aren’t possible, I try to create smaller breaks instead. You can’t fully switch off, but these short getaways or spontaneous ideas for a few days away can still make a big difference. So for me, it’s not just about rest, but about distance. I need moments where I’m completely out of my usual context (and time zone) in order to recharge properly and come back with a clearer mind.

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success?

Success is a tricky word for me. I don’t like thinking in those terms. What I do focus on instead is consistency and clarity. I try to keep a simple structure in my day that allows me to get things done without feeling overwhelmed. I choose one big task and several smaller ones. If I don’t feel creative, but that’s the task I have on my Notion list, I just switch it with something else. 

One habit that helps a lot is writing things down immediately when I think of them. Otherwise, I tend to lose track of ideas very quickly. My phone is full of screenshots and random notes but they all make sense when they have to. And finally, as I said earlier, I try not to romanticize productivity. Some days are very productive, others are not, and I’ve learned that both are part of the process.

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true?

I don’t think there is a universal formula for “making dreams come true,” but there are a few principles that I keep coming back to. First is consistency over intensity. Most meaningful things are built through small and steady actions over time. It’s very easy to start something with a lot of energy, but it’s much harder to keep showing up when things become less exciting.

Second is starting before you feel ready. If you wait for perfect conditions, perfect timing, or perfect confidence, most ideas will never leave your head. In business and in marketing, not having a plan or strategy usually means you’re lost. But when I started “Adopt a School,” I realized that not everything begins with a plan. I simply turned to my husband and said, “Let’s do it,” without even knowing how far we would get.

And third – and maybe most important – is building with people. You don’t need to have everything figured out by yourself; you need to create something that others can believe in and contribute to. Share it with people you trust, listen to feedback, and let it evolve through others as well.

What would you say to the people who are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

If you don’t chase your dreams, someone else will. 

Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing. 

Hi, I am Marc and I wish to help companies that create brand new things that help people be active and feel more healthy.  

How was the idea for your dream born and how it developed over time? 

I was for a rather long time involved in a national program to support elite sporters with innovations. It was very satisfying to help athletes that were very motivated but the long-term impact was limited since we reached only a small population. Therefore I was motivated to help set up programs that reached a larger population with also health needs. 

What are your plans for the future? What do wish to achieve in the next 5 years? 

It is my ambition to create together a movement in Europe that can create this impact, by bringing together stakeholders from all different background: scientists, innovators, businesses, NGO’s, investors, social programs. 

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far? 

• It is important to involve businesses to keep a permanent involvement. Making money is not a bad thing, because it helps maintaining and improving good solutions 

• It is also important to involve end-users in the whole process, and keep testing with them, since the real value is in the practise. Sometimes you think you know the solution, but reality is a hard thing. 

• Start working with the motivated people, to keep the energy, even if the rollout is small. Only when they create a positive vibe others will follow. If you start with a large but not motivated target group the loss of positive energy will drain the initiative.  

How do you find work and life balance and prevent burnout? 

Good one! Remember that quantity of work hours conflict with quality, and good output is not created by long work hours. Do the things that you like, since that keeps the positive energy. Do not try to do it all by yourself, delegate the stuff that other people like to do and you don’t. And do not be afraid to make mistakes, but share your failures, others might help you out. 

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally? 

I go to the gym, like to walk to free the mind, and try not to be online in the evening or in the weekend. A relaxed mind can better judge what is important and what not. And remember we work to live, not live to work. 

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success?

Read the news, take my time for dinner together with the family, try to be kind. So no real work related things, since I believe that only with a good work/private life balance you create success. 

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true?

Do things that are close to your heart, since it has to make you happy.

If you are positive you motivate other people and so you create a positive environment and movement that can grow. 

Share since sharing is multiplying. 

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult?

Connecting to other people. People are more important than material things. 

What would you say to the people that are still hesitant to chase their dreams? 

Just try to be happy, dreams can be large or small, but if you are happy with the things you do or like to do, life has a positive outcome. 

1. Specific: Start by defining your goal with precision. Vague goals can lead to confusion and lack of direction. Instead of saying, “I want to be successful,” specify what success means to you. For instance, “I want to become a certified project manager.”
2. Measurable: Ensure your goal includes criteria for tracking progress. Measurable goals help you stay motivated and recognize when you’re making headway. For example, “I will complete five online project management courses and pass the PMP exam.”
3. Achievable: While it’s important to challenge yourself, your goal should be attainable. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and burnout. Assess your resources and constraints to set a goal that is within reach. For example, “I will study for two hours every weekday evening.”
4. Relevant: Your goal should align with your broader life objectives and values. Ask yourself if the goal is meaningful and if it fits into your overall career or personal aspirations. For instance, “Becoming a certified project manager will enhance my career prospects and allow me to lead bigger projects.”
5. Time-bound: Set a clear deadline to create a sense of urgency and prioritize your efforts. A timeframe helps in managing your progress and staying focused. For example, “I will obtain my project management certification within one year.”

By setting SMART goals, you create a roadmap that guides your journey towards achieving your dreams. This method not only clarifies what you want but also outlines the steps needed to get there, making your dreams attainable and realistic.

First, clearly define your dream. Ambiguity is the enemy of progress. Write down your goals in precise terms. Instead of saying, “I want to be successful,” specify what success looks like to you. Is it starting your own business, publishing a book, or becoming an expert in your field? Clarity gives your dream a shape and direction.

Next, break your dream into manageable steps. Large goals can be overwhelming, but by dividing them into smaller tasks, you can create a practical roadmap. For instance, if your dream is to write a book, start with outlining your ideas, then move to writing a chapter a month. These small, consistent actions build momentum and make the goal feel attainable.

Commitment is crucial. Dreams require time and effort, and there will be challenges along the way. Cultivate a strong sense of dedication and discipline. Set aside regular time for working on your goals, and treat this time as non-negotiable. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage and motivate you. Their belief in your vision can bolster your own confidence.

Embrace learning and adaptability. As you progress, you may encounter obstacles or realize that your initial plan needs adjustment. Stay flexible and open to new information. Each setback is a learning opportunity, and adapting to change is part of the journey.

Visualize your success. Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself achieving your dream. Visualization can enhance motivation and keep you focused. It reminds you of the joy and fulfillment that await you, making the hard work worthwhile.

Finally, celebrate your milestones. Acknowledge and reward yourself for the progress you make, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement keeps your enthusiasm alive and propels you forward.

Remember, every great achievement started as a dream in someone’s heart. Keep pushing forward, and watch your dream come to life.

s. She is both a dream chaser and a game changer Read more about it in the text below.

Tell us a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing? 

Hi there. I am Vanya – mother, wife, friend, business partner, teacher, escape room maker, volunteer. Too many roles for 24 hours, but still eager to know and work on the dreams I am chasing. So far I got it, that the biggest of the delight is in the chasing. The process, not the completion. The Road, is not the final point. Probably that is the reason I am always in the search. Of good. When talking about dreams, I would refer to the year 2000, when I was an eighteen-year-old girl with one dream only – to establish a school of languages and make it possible for each and every person to study a foreign language. I was absolutely sure that one day I would be there – among people who have done major change for the humans. And here I am – 23 years later – with a school of languages in several points in Sofia and online. Having the best team, having taught over 40000 people so far. And still in the chase.

How was the idea for your dream born and how it developed over time?

I was 14 years old when I met one of the best teachers ever. He was my English teacher, who deeply believed in me. He was inspiring, caring, motivator one in a million, person who strived for the best. He was my role model, I was sure that one day I would try to be like him – I would try to make change for people and make them believe in themselves.

So, one day, when I graduated school I went to my parents asking for a loan of 1000 BGN and for a room in my grandparents’ flat. At that time I got the biggest YES in my life. I started the project of my life – Intellect Schools of Languages in the flat of my grandma, a table and six chairs, a white board and a heart full of passion and expectations for the forthcoming success. 

What are your plans for the future? What do wish to achieve in the next 5 years? 

If you want to make God laugh tell him about your plans ) In my life, things just happen. I wouldn’t call it a plan. It is more like a dream manifest. My plans in fact are dreams well-structured ) I have a dream for more educated people, for less people, living in poverty, for more time for my loved ones. My daughter who is 19 years old now and my son, who is 14, together with my husband have been next to me through the whole of the journey. I really do believe I would have more time for enjoyment in the next five years. 

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far? 

– Never quit – if you feel tired of trying, just stop for a rest.

– Do more of what make you happy.

– If there is a thing you really want to achieve, nourish the dream – one day it will be all set for you.

– Not all of the roses have thorns.

– Never regret spending time with people who need attention. It could be their last stop and you may have been their catcher in the rye.

How do you find work and life balance and prevent burnout?  

Years ago, there was no balance at all. I was like in 20 hours work mode, having no time for myself and my family, Later on, I started changing a bit the routine and let more time for myself and the loved ones. These days, I try to balance the roles, spending time enough on all of them. From time to time I get into burnout mode and escape to my piece of paradise – Sinemorets, where we have a small cottage house since year 2020. This is my recharge station and I try to be there a week in a month during the year.

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally?  

I read a lot, draw and paint, go to some crush courses, that teach me new skills. And of course meet my friends. It is really inspiring and worthy.

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success? 

I talk with people. Meet them. Listen to them. Most of my time I spend in communication. There is no magic in my daily routines. Success comes when you are in active search among people and when you deliberately listen. 

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true? 

– Love people – only when you love them, you understand their real needs. Only when loving you become meaningful to the world you live in; thus, your dreams would be based on something real.

– Gratitude – be grateful for the things you have, for the battles, for the joy and sorrow – everything happens for a reason. Being grateful means you are happy with your life. And what are the dreams in fact? Your expectation for better life.- Respect – always respect people. Older, younger, more intelligent, less intelligent, people who have done everything for you, people who have torn you, people who are believers and those who have lost their faith. Be respectful. I believe this is The Law of the Universe. And I do obey it.

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult? 

My family. It is my harbour, especially in times of hard.

What would you say to the people that are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

Keep on dreaming. All is possible if you do believe. And if you are hesitant to chase a dream of yours, stop for a while. Take a deep breath. Imagine you have reached it. Imagine how it looks. Feel the emotion of having it. Does it feel OK? If yes – move on. Continue chasing. 

Your heart knows.

Tell me a bit more about yourself and the dream you are chasing.

My name is Tonya Blagoeva. I am a mom of 3 wonderful kids. I am a female entrepreneur.  Professionally I am a Bowen therapist, constellator, and artist. I love all kinds of arts, but my favorite ones are photography, painting, and healthy cooking.

I am the owner of Casa Vita ( www.therapybowen.com)  center where I work as a Bowen therapist and family constellator.  Bowen is a manual therapy that helps the body to recover itself. I’ve been doing this for the last 10 years and had to study for a new bachelor’s degree in medicine college. 

I am passionate about healthy food and photography. That is why I published a book called “Nature in a Plate”. Inside I have created 97 recipes and all photos are my projects. I am happy to share that I was one of the TOP 24 finalists in a TV show dedicated to hobby cooking.  You can read more about it in my food blog: www.blagini.eu 

Ten years ago, I used to be a mathematician, working in a bank. My first bachelor’s degree was in Applied mathematics and a master’s degree in mathematical modeling in economics. I didn’t fit in this world and at the age of 30 I made this huge change in my professional life. And people thought I was crazy.

I am living my dreams now. Every step I take is a step to better me. I have so many dreams.  And hope I will manage to make all of them come true! My main dream is to become the best person I can ever be. I try to be better than yesterday and to appreciate all the small and the big things in my life. 

How was the idea for your dream born and how it developed over time?

It was during my second maternity leave.  I realized that I hate my job. I was wondering what to do. I was aged 29 and there was enough time to reconsider my life. I had a lovely family and two great kids, but I was not happy at work. I didn’t see the point of my work in the bank. It didn’t help me or my clients to be better human beings. So, I’ve started to go to different personal development seminars. And then one day a Bowen brochure came to me and without knowing what exactly Bowen was, I signed up for the next seminar. I was attracted to the fact that I would help people to feel better. Ever since I was a child, I have been dreaming of healing with my hands. And Bowen therapy came to help me make my dream come true.

Together with studying the Bowen technique, I’ve started studying for a family constellation facilitator. This is another method of helping people – to rearrange the family ecosystem. It is a very interesting technique. We work on a system level, using people as representatives. It is hard to explain. You must experience it. And it is giving great results.

The best work that we can do is to balance ourselves and solve our problems so that we don’t transfer them onto our kids.

Now I make constellation workshops in my center Casa Vita, along with private Bowen sessions. But in my free time, I love to create different types of art – paintings, photographs, culinary, handcrafted cards, albums, ragdolls, and so on. To have a hobby is the best I can do for my soul. To cook healthy food for me and my family and to make beautiful photographs of it has been my main hobby for the last 3 years. It was the time when we were raising our third child and I decided to document and photograph all the healthy food I was making for us and the baby. That’s when my cooking blog blagini.eu was born.

My other passion is sports. Movement and daily exercise are very important for me. I like very much the motto – “Strong spirit in a strong body” My body is my temple. So, I take care of it daily.

What are your plans for the future? What do you wish to achieve in the next 5 years?

My dream is to grow a community of self-aware people, who care about themselves, nature, and their food.

My plans are to continue to become a better person than I was yesterday. I plan to make a lot more dreams come true and to help other people to achieve the same. I hope that the good example I make will help a lot more people to take care of themselves and the environment.

I’ve just published my first cookbook this month and I’m so excited about it! It’s called “Nature in a plate” and it contains 97 vegan and vegetarian recipes, arranged by season. I plan to publish a few more books in the coming 5 years.

Another dream that I have is to live in a house with a big yard and to grow our own food.

What are the most important lessons you learned along the way so far?

The most important lessons I’ve learned so far are to believe in myself, to be persistent, and to be thankful for every moment in my life. Sometimes when something bad happens to us we tend to complain, but I’ve learned to be thankful for everything – good or bad. Everything comes with a reason in our lives. And yes – it is not easy, we have our downs, but as fast as we get out of emotion, the faster we learn our lessons.

How do you find work and life balance and prevent burnout?

Balance in everyday life is the most challenging thing for me. It’s not easy, and sometimes I lose it too. But I think this is normal. When we want to achieve something big, it cannot happen without effort and sacrifice. Sometimes the balance is hard. But daily what I do is to plan my steps. And in my plans, there is also room for sport, healthy food, and time for myself every day. I need time to be alone so that I am balanced. Never mind if it’s a yoga class, salt room visit, meditation, or just a walk in nature.

How do you take care of yourself – physically, emotionally, and mentally?

I take care of myself daily. I go to sports (conditional training, yoga) 4-5 days a week. I walk every day at least 8000 steps. I believe that we are what we eat, so my food is mostly fresh, seasonal, and local. I believe that the middle way is the best for me. I don’t like extremes. If I eat sometimes junk food, it’s not the end of the world. But over time I mostly choose good food.

Sport helps not only for physical health but also for emotional and mental ones. I go to sports on foot and when I pass through the forest of Borisova Garden this helps me balance my body, soul, and mind.

I also meditate for 5-10 minutes every day, listen to inspiring music and podcasts, and mainly – I read books every single day – 30-60 minutes before bedtime. This helps me calm my brain and thoughts and to have a better sleep.

No screens 1 hour before sleep and at least 1 hour after waking up in the morning.

What are your daily routines/habits that you believe contribute to your success?

My daily routines that I believe are helping me are a few. In the morning the first thing that I do is to drink 2 cups of hot water, brush my teeth (sometimes in reverse order), make a short meditation, and thank for everything I have in my life. The next thing is a contrast shower and a workout. After that, I am ready to work and take care of every other aspect of my daily life.

My evening routine is to make dinner for my family, play with the kids, and/or watch some series of our favorite shows. One hour before bedtime we turn off all the screens, brush our teeth, read books, play some calm games, and get to bed.

What would you say are the three principles or qualities that can help a person make their dreams come true?

The three principles that can help a person to make his wish come true according to me are to choose a goal, to make a strategy with small steps, and to be persistent in executing them.

When I choose a dream, it takes time to make it a goal. When I make my dream a goal, then it has a deadline and a list of small steps on how to get there. Then comes the hardest part – to be persistent and to get all the way to the end. There are always obstacles in the way. Some of them are to test us if we really want to do this. And some of them are just difficulties, which are part of life.

What inspires and motivates you when times are difficult?

When I have such difficulties, I ask myself my big WHY. Why do I want to achieve this dream? This helps me to continue when it’s hard.

Another inspiration is to read stories of successful people and their hard times. To watch videos of similar products/projects and how they made them come true.

And the biggest inspiration of all – nature. When I have a hard time, I turn to nature – walks, hiking, swimming. I have a tree I speak to. It helps me when it’s hard to say all the difficulties in front of it. To rest my head on the trunk of the tree and just breathe.

What would you say to the people who are still hesitant to chase their dreams?

I want to shout to the world that life is wonderful! That we can make whatever we want and it’s worth it. Believe in yourselves and then someone else will believe in you. It may be hard but give your best and try to achieve it. Otherwise, you will regret it one day. Life is too short not to follow your dreams!

Finding inspiration in the success of others

One of the most powerful ways to learn from the success of others is by finding inspiration in their stories. Whether it’s reading books, listening to podcasts, or watching interviews with successful people, there are endless resources available to help you learn from those who have achieved their dreams. By studying the journeys of others, you can gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed, including the challenges, setbacks, and strategies they used to overcome obstacles.

Identifying key strategies and tactics

Another way to learn from the success of others is by identifying the key strategies and tactics they used to achieve their goals. For example, if you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, you might study the success stories of other successful entrepreneurs to learn about their marketing strategies, financial management practices, or customer service tactics. By analyzing the methods of those who have achieved success in your field, you can gain valuable insights into the best practices and techniques that you can apply to your own journey.

Applying lessons learned to your own journey

The final step in learning from the success of others is by applying the lessons you’ve learned to your own journey. This means taking action on the strategies and tactics that you’ve identified and using them to help you achieve your own goals. Remember, while the success of others can be a valuable source of inspiration and knowledge, it’s ultimately up to you to take action and make your own dreams a reality.

In conclusion, learning from the success of others can be a powerful tool in helping you achieve your own dreams. By finding inspiration in the stories of others, identifying key strategies and tactics, and applying the lessons learned to your own journey, you can gain valuable insights and knowledge that can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. So go out there and chase your dreams, and remember to always keep learning from those who have come before you.