Maria Grudeva

How many languages do you speak? Please write them in a list. Which is your mother tongue?

Bulgarian – mother tongue, English, Turkish, Italian – currently learning

What is your favorite sport or hobby in your free time? Why is it so? Any interesting stories on it?

I am very passionate about traveling around the world to collect delicious recipes. I am very keen on baking in particular and travel photography and filming.

Top 3 things we don’t know about you? Might be something funny, quirky or strange 🙂

I never touched and I am incredibly scared of touching live fish or raw fish.

I did martial arts for 8 years.

I used to sing in a school band in high school and I have a group of foreign student friends in Plovdiv that we sing together often.

I also love to knit. I learned from my grandmas and I love to knit my own fashion pieces like hats, scarves, sweaters, etc.

What was the most surprising thing you learned about Asia while working here?

The Chinese language doesn’t have an alphabet. You learn Chinese by studying different characters.

Favorite book or a book that changed your mindset and why it did?

As a Psychologist, “Daniel Goleman’s ‘Emotional Intelligence’ is not just a book for me, it’s a profound influence that has reshaped my perspective on ‘intelligence.’ I used to associate intelligence merely with academic achievements and logical reasoning. However, this insightful work of literature has expanded my understanding, emphasizing that intelligence also encompasses our emotional aptitude. This book has been instrumental in transforming my mindset. It has allowed me to comprehend my own emotional ecosystem in a more nuanced way, enhancing my ability to understand and manage my feelings more effectively.

It’s not just about introspection, though; this newfound understanding extends to my perception of others as well. Now, I am better equipped to interpret and empathize with the emotional experiences of those around me, be they my boss, partner, friends, or even unfamiliar faces I encounter in my daily life. Emotional Intelligence has enriched my day-to-day experiences, embedding them with deeper meaning and significance. It has shed light on the crucial role our emotions play in guiding our actions, decisions, and relationships. The insights I have gained from the book have aided me in navigating through the complex world of human emotions, lending a sense of clarity and understanding that I previously lacked.

Your most extreme experience so far in your life/biggest challenge in your life?

The most extreme experience, which was also the biggest challenge of my life, was when I decided to move to Galway, Ireland, at the young age of 18. All I had was a mere 300 euros in my pocket and the spirit of adventure coursing through my veins. Searching for a job, especially my first serious one, was not a walk in the park, especially in an unfamiliar land. It was a long and arduous journey, filled with uncertainties and obstacles.

However, I firmly believe that life’s greatest lessons are learned not in times of comfort but through trials and tribulations, and this experience was a testament to that. Despite the initial hardships, I was able to turn my life in Ireland into a priceless, unforgettable experience. The struggle to find a job led me to work in some amazing places. These workplaces were not just locations to earn a living but also learning grounds where I cultivated my understanding and appreciation of the Irish culture. I met incredible people, many of whom became dear friends, and the bonds we formed are ones that I treasure. The beauty of Ireland enchanted me and I had the opportunity to travel to beautiful destinations, further deepening my connection with the land. Over time, it became more than just a place I lived in; it became a part of me, a second home that I will forever hold close to my heart. This move to Ireland also taught me to be independent. I learned to stand on my own feet and provide for myself, lessons which were instrumental in moulding me into the person I am today. It honed my resilience, broadened my worldview and grew me into an adult. Moreover, this adventure fostered a love for exploring other cultures within me, a passion that now reflects in my work at 1-StopAsia.

Every day, I get to learn about a new culture, navigate through a different society, and embrace a new perspective. I am deeply grateful for my experience in Ireland for it laid the foundation for the path I am on today. The beautiful Emerald Isle, with its blend of unique culture, warmth, and scenic beauty, will forever have a special place in my heart. It was a challenging journey, but the knowledge, experiences and memories I gained are invaluable. And for that, I am eternally thankful!

Your top 3 goals in professional life for the next 10 years

My top three professional goals for the next ten years are indeed a reflection of my commitment and ambition for my role as a Key Account Solutions Provider at 1-StopAsia, as well as my personal growth.

1. Strengthening and Expanding Partnerships: My primary focus is to continue to nurture and broaden our existing partnerships with other translation companies. These relationships are the backbone of our business, and I aim to create a robust network that is beneficial to all parties involved. In parallel, I intend to explore new avenues for partnerships, especially in emerging markets. By fostering these relationships, I am confident that we can significantly contribute to 1-StopAsia’s growth trajectory.
2. Personal Growth and Skill Development: I firmly believe in the concept of lifelong learning, and in the next decade, I look forward to investing substantial time and effort in my professional development. This includes partaking in courses, attending workshops, and undergoing any form of training that will enhance my skills, particularly in the realm of account management and solutions provision. My goal is to remain at the forefront of industry trends and advancements, and use this knowledge to improve my performance and the value I bring to the company.
3. Company Growth and Success: I am dedicated to ensuring the long-term success of 1-StopAsia. Over the next ten years, I envision myself climbing the ladder within the organization, taking on greater responsibilities, and making more significant contributions to the company’s growth. I’m confident that my continued development and dedication to fostering partnerships will result in a substantial impact on the company’s prosperity.

Beyond these three, there is a fourth, more subtle goal that permeates all others: To continuously strive for excellence in my professional life, while maintaining a balance with my personal well-being. I believe that being fulfilled and content in one’s personal life significantly contributes to professional performance. Therefore, ensuring a healthy work-life balance is an integral part of my long-term career goals.