Discovering Yourself: Conversation with Violetta Radzevilo
An interview with a leadership-development consultant and strategic-governance director.
Violetta Radzevilo — Leadership-development consultant, executive adviser and independent board director for strategic bodies; Member of the Association for Psychoanalytic Coaching & Business Consulting; Member of the National Federation of Professional Mentors and Coaches; Creator of the transformational program “MY GROWTH BOOK.”
Violetta is more than a consultant or author. By her own example she inspires people to believe in themselves, appreciate every single day, and live with meaning “here and now.” The secret, she says, is to ask yourself the right questions and allow yourself to be authentic.
We spoke with her about happiness, life balance, and tools for inner harmony.
— Violetta, what does happiness mean to you?
For me, happiness lies in balance and the sheer joy of life. It’s waking up and falling asleep with a smile; when your favorite work, love — family, self-development, sports —everything fills you up instead of draining you.
— How does a coach help people reach that state?
People usually come to me when “something hurts” or when they “want something,” but can’t pinpoint what it is—much less achieve it. My job as an executive coach is to uncover what’s blocking them—often inner resistance or defense mechanisms. I help clients meet their personal goals by bringing subconscious blocks and internal conflicts to light and working with the root cause.
— How did you get into coaching?
I spent 15 years in top management, leading large teams. Big revenues, major projects—but I knew I had to move forward. I launched my own business and dove in head-first. When life is out of balance and one area dominates, burnout soon follows. They say the way not to burn out is to keep your inner fire alive.
So I invested in my own growth — a leadership program at one of the world’s top business schools. There I realized that my core strength is unlocking potential and expanding personal scale. That insight led me to coaching, step by step. Today I hold a master’s degree in psychology; I defended my thesis with the highest possible grade. Its title: “Abundance and the False Self: A Psychoanalytic Perspective.”
We spoke with her about happiness, life balance, and tools for inner harmony.
— Violetta, what does happiness mean to you?
For me, happiness lies in balance and the sheer joy of life. It’s waking up and falling asleep with a smile; when your favorite work, love — family, self-development, sports —everything fills you up instead of draining you.
— How does a coach help people reach that state?
People usually come to me when “something hurts” or when they “want something,” but can’t pinpoint what it is—much less achieve it. My job as an executive coach is to uncover what’s blocking them—often inner resistance or defense mechanisms. I help clients meet their personal goals by bringing subconscious blocks and internal conflicts to light and working with the root cause.
— How did you get into coaching?
I spent 15 years in top management, leading large teams. Big revenues, major projects—but I knew I had to move forward. I launched my own business and dove in head-first. When life is out of balance and one area dominates, burnout soon follows. They say the way not to burn out is to keep your inner fire alive.
So I invested in my own growth — a leadership program at one of the world’s top business schools. There I realized that my core strength is unlocking potential and expanding personal scale. That insight led me to coaching, step by step. Today I hold a master’s degree in psychology; I defended my thesis with the highest possible grade. Its title: “Abundance and the False Self: A Psychoanalytic Perspective.”
Violetta is more than a consultant or author. By her own example she inspires people to believe in themselves, appreciate every single day, and live with meaning “here and now.” The secret, she says, is to ask yourself the right questions and allow yourself to be authentic.
We spoke with her about happiness, life balance, and tools for inner harmony.
— Violetta, what does happiness mean to you?
For me, happiness lies in balance and the sheer joy of life. It’s waking up and falling asleep with a smile; when your favorite work, love — family, self-development, sports —everything fills you up instead of draining you.
— How does a coach help people reach that state?
People usually come to me when “something hurts” or when they “want something,” but can’t pinpoint what it is—much less achieve it. My job as an executive coach is to uncover what’s blocking them—often inner resistance or defense mechanisms. I help clients meet their personal goals by bringing subconscious blocks and internal conflicts to light and working with the root cause.
— How did you get into coaching?
I spent 15 years in top management, leading large teams. Big revenues, major projects—but I knew I had to move forward. I launched my own business and dove in head-first. When life is out of balance and one area dominates, burnout soon follows. They say the way not to burn out is to keep your inner fire alive.
So I invested in my own growth — a leadership program at one of the world’s top business schools. There I realized that my core strength is unlocking potential and expanding personal scale. That insight led me to coaching, step by step. Today I hold a master’s degree in psychology; I defended my thesis with the highest possible grade. Its title: “Abundance and the False Self: A Psychoanalytic Perspective.”
We spoke with her about happiness, life balance, and tools for inner harmony.
— Violetta, what does happiness mean to you?
For me, happiness lies in balance and the sheer joy of life. It’s waking up and falling asleep with a smile; when your favorite work, love — family, self-development, sports —everything fills you up instead of draining you.
— How does a coach help people reach that state?
People usually come to me when “something hurts” or when they “want something,” but can’t pinpoint what it is—much less achieve it. My job as an executive coach is to uncover what’s blocking them—often inner resistance or defense mechanisms. I help clients meet their personal goals by bringing subconscious blocks and internal conflicts to light and working with the root cause.
— How did you get into coaching?
I spent 15 years in top management, leading large teams. Big revenues, major projects—but I knew I had to move forward. I launched my own business and dove in head-first. When life is out of balance and one area dominates, burnout soon follows. They say the way not to burn out is to keep your inner fire alive.
So I invested in my own growth — a leadership program at one of the world’s top business schools. There I realized that my core strength is unlocking potential and expanding personal scale. That insight led me to coaching, step by step. Today I hold a master’s degree in psychology; I defended my thesis with the highest possible grade. Its title: “Abundance and the False Self: A Psychoanalytic Perspective.”
— Can you briefly spell out the difference between mentoring, coaching, and “nastavnichestvo” (traditional tutorship)?
Absolutely. In coaching, the core tool is not giving advice but conducting a dialogue that surfaces hidden conflicts blocking a goal.
Mentoring involves fewer interpretations and more observation of behavioral patterns — striking a balance between psychology and personal growth.
“Nastavnichestvo” is largely about inspiration and leading by example. Yet in every format the key value is honoring each person’s unique path.
— How do you feel when people call you a mentor?
I see it as a great responsibility. Still, I always bring people back to themselves: all the answers are already inside. My journey is not a blueprint; I simply help unlock potential and find custom solutions.
— What does working with clients give you?
I work as a partner, not a teacher. It’s an equal dialogue. I gain as much as I give — new insights and discoveries. It’s a constant exchange.
— Tell us about your clients and your tools.
My clients are entrepreneurs and C-level executives at large companies. The main tool is interpreting unconscious processes through analytic listening and targeted questions. I keep sharpening my skills, undergo supervision, and stay in therapy myself — that’s the foundation of quality work.
— Do you work only one-on-one, or with groups too?
Both. Group work offers every participant distinct insights and their own trajectory of change.
— Do many arrive hoping for a “magic pill”?
Of course. But it soon becomes clear that deep change isn’t a one-shot secret; it’s consistent work that includes facing resistance.
— Why do people so often misjudge their goals?
We adjust to external expectations — parents, society, our own ego trips. After reaching outside milestones, a person can still feel empty. Through inner work we uncover true values and desires.
— Are there people coaching simply can’t help?
Sometimes a person needs a psychotherapist instead. During the first three sessions we clarify the request and decide where — and how — to proceed.
— Your signature project is “MY GROWTH BOOK.” What is it, exactly?
It’s a system I’ve used for more than eight years. It blends goals, planning, and reflection: habit trackers, a success log, gratitude journal, monthly reviews. It isn’t just box-ticking; it lets you see progress across every life area—career, family, fitness, leisur
Absolutely. In coaching, the core tool is not giving advice but conducting a dialogue that surfaces hidden conflicts blocking a goal.
Mentoring involves fewer interpretations and more observation of behavioral patterns — striking a balance between psychology and personal growth.
“Nastavnichestvo” is largely about inspiration and leading by example. Yet in every format the key value is honoring each person’s unique path.
— How do you feel when people call you a mentor?
I see it as a great responsibility. Still, I always bring people back to themselves: all the answers are already inside. My journey is not a blueprint; I simply help unlock potential and find custom solutions.
— What does working with clients give you?
I work as a partner, not a teacher. It’s an equal dialogue. I gain as much as I give — new insights and discoveries. It’s a constant exchange.
— Tell us about your clients and your tools.
My clients are entrepreneurs and C-level executives at large companies. The main tool is interpreting unconscious processes through analytic listening and targeted questions. I keep sharpening my skills, undergo supervision, and stay in therapy myself — that’s the foundation of quality work.
— Do you work only one-on-one, or with groups too?
Both. Group work offers every participant distinct insights and their own trajectory of change.
— Do many arrive hoping for a “magic pill”?
Of course. But it soon becomes clear that deep change isn’t a one-shot secret; it’s consistent work that includes facing resistance.
— Why do people so often misjudge their goals?
We adjust to external expectations — parents, society, our own ego trips. After reaching outside milestones, a person can still feel empty. Through inner work we uncover true values and desires.
— Are there people coaching simply can’t help?
Sometimes a person needs a psychotherapist instead. During the first three sessions we clarify the request and decide where — and how — to proceed.
— Your signature project is “MY GROWTH BOOK.” What is it, exactly?
It’s a system I’ve used for more than eight years. It blends goals, planning, and reflection: habit trackers, a success log, gratitude journal, monthly reviews. It isn’t just box-ticking; it lets you see progress across every life area—career, family, fitness, leisur
— How did the idea emerge?
It started with my own search for balance. I ran huge teams, built a business, and lived in a permanent results race — until I realized the projects were succeeding but joy and harmony were not. I began recording my states, wins, lessons, and gratitude—that’s how the Book was born. In eight years it has helped me advance my career and keep my family, health, and daily joy intact.
— What makes the system unique?
Awareness. “MY GROWTH BOOK” is not a goal diary but an ongoing feedback loop with yourself. You log achievements, track emotions, note gratitude, and — critically — conduct an honest monthly audit. It’s a balanced mix of structure and freedom, so it fits almost anyone. Frankly, had I known it earlier, I’d have avoided many mistakes.
— What does someone gain by using it?
Clarity. People often undervalue their wins or chase false goals. The Book highlights strengths, captures life in the moment, and serves as a powerful antidepressant: leaf through the pages, see how much good has happened, and realize you really are changing your life for the better.
— Many can’t build the habit of journaling. Any advice?
That’s why I launched a limited edition with video practices and reminders. If discipline isn’t your thing, watch the videos, work at your own pace, mark just a few lines a week. No self-blame — just return when you’re ready. Every day is a fresh start; the Book is a practice of self-love.
— Who is it for—only businesspeople?
Not at all! It’s universal. Top managers, moms on maternity leave, creatives — all use it. Orders come from Moscow, London, Dubai, Serbia, even Thailand. Feedback ranges from jump-starting stalled careers to improving family ties or finally taking up sports.
— Can you expect quick results?
You can’t overhaul life in one day, but many feel a difference after the first month because they see real progress. Let it become a habit, and the effect compounds like bank interest.
— What if someone fears going it alone?
The limited edition includes video support: tackling fears, gratitude techniques, quick success reviews. I don’t just hand over a system—I stay close to everyone using it.
— Why does it work better than apps and notes?
It relies on handwriting — just a pen and radical honesty. Old-school, but incredibly effective. Writing by hand triggers deeper thinking, sharper emotions, faster progress. I’ve tried dozens of apps; none match what the Book delivers.
— What’s the core message of the Book—and your philosophy?
Continuous movement — small steps, no self-punishment, no chasing someone else’s standards. Love yourself, celebrate even tiny wins, and see how life’s spheres interconnect. Only by viewing your whole life at once do you know where you’re headed—and what you’re truly grateful for.
— Your parting advice: why try “MY GROWTH BOOK”?
It’s radical honesty with yourself. After a month you’ll feel an energy surge, see life grow brighter, and start shaping dreams that are genuinely yours. I’ve kept it for years and still rediscover myself every time.
— What do modern people most often lack for harmony?
Everyone has a unique quest. The goal is to define your own, authentic harmony — based on inner truth, not external templates.
— What message would you like to add to this world?
Live happily by knowing yourself, acting with self-love. Don’t compare — lean on your uniqueness and personal answers.
It started with my own search for balance. I ran huge teams, built a business, and lived in a permanent results race — until I realized the projects were succeeding but joy and harmony were not. I began recording my states, wins, lessons, and gratitude—that’s how the Book was born. In eight years it has helped me advance my career and keep my family, health, and daily joy intact.
— What makes the system unique?
Awareness. “MY GROWTH BOOK” is not a goal diary but an ongoing feedback loop with yourself. You log achievements, track emotions, note gratitude, and — critically — conduct an honest monthly audit. It’s a balanced mix of structure and freedom, so it fits almost anyone. Frankly, had I known it earlier, I’d have avoided many mistakes.
— What does someone gain by using it?
Clarity. People often undervalue their wins or chase false goals. The Book highlights strengths, captures life in the moment, and serves as a powerful antidepressant: leaf through the pages, see how much good has happened, and realize you really are changing your life for the better.
— Many can’t build the habit of journaling. Any advice?
That’s why I launched a limited edition with video practices and reminders. If discipline isn’t your thing, watch the videos, work at your own pace, mark just a few lines a week. No self-blame — just return when you’re ready. Every day is a fresh start; the Book is a practice of self-love.
— Who is it for—only businesspeople?
Not at all! It’s universal. Top managers, moms on maternity leave, creatives — all use it. Orders come from Moscow, London, Dubai, Serbia, even Thailand. Feedback ranges from jump-starting stalled careers to improving family ties or finally taking up sports.
— Can you expect quick results?
You can’t overhaul life in one day, but many feel a difference after the first month because they see real progress. Let it become a habit, and the effect compounds like bank interest.
— What if someone fears going it alone?
The limited edition includes video support: tackling fears, gratitude techniques, quick success reviews. I don’t just hand over a system—I stay close to everyone using it.
— Why does it work better than apps and notes?
It relies on handwriting — just a pen and radical honesty. Old-school, but incredibly effective. Writing by hand triggers deeper thinking, sharper emotions, faster progress. I’ve tried dozens of apps; none match what the Book delivers.
— What’s the core message of the Book—and your philosophy?
Continuous movement — small steps, no self-punishment, no chasing someone else’s standards. Love yourself, celebrate even tiny wins, and see how life’s spheres interconnect. Only by viewing your whole life at once do you know where you’re headed—and what you’re truly grateful for.
— Your parting advice: why try “MY GROWTH BOOK”?
It’s radical honesty with yourself. After a month you’ll feel an energy surge, see life grow brighter, and start shaping dreams that are genuinely yours. I’ve kept it for years and still rediscover myself every time.
— What do modern people most often lack for harmony?
Everyone has a unique quest. The goal is to define your own, authentic harmony — based on inner truth, not external templates.
— What message would you like to add to this world?
Live happily by knowing yourself, acting with self-love. Don’t compare — lean on your uniqueness and personal answers.
LET'S WORK TOGETHER
