Expert interview with Dr Alia Bojilova, hostage survivor, military veteran and partner at Movac.
From talking her way through a hostage situation in Syria to selecting SAS officers, Dr Alia Bojilova knows pressure. Her experience of being an ‘other’ as a Bulgarian immigrant to a woman in the military has given her unique insight into how to navigate environments not designed with us in mind. As a result, she navigates each day with a laser focus on ‘what matters’:
💡 Purpose always matters – Goals shift with circumstances, but purpose sustains us through the bumps. It helps to see those bumps as stepping stones. Alia’s purpose – to serve others – provides direction no matter what she’s working on.
💡 Unbridled curiosity unlocks solutions – When faced with 38 armed militia members in Syria, Alia (still!) paused to understand her captors’ perspectives. This same principle works in everyday interactions and conflict – find common ground to create shared outcomes.
💡 Realistic appraisal with unwavering commitment – In a pickle? Acknowledge your situation honestly while maintaining your direction. You need to know where your feet are without losing sight of where you want to go. There’s that Stockdale Paradox again!
💡 Reduce wandering – When overwhelmed by possibilities, take small actions that provide feedback instead of overthinking. We all recognise when we’ve gathered enough information to form a picture. Then act, even if that action is asking for help.
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"Great interview with an impressive woman. She shared grounded, thoughtful ideas applicable to so many contexts. Thank you!"
"Amazing woman! And I love the ‘unbridled curiosity’ as we navigate through this very divided world."
