Salary continues to be the main reason Romanians choose or leave a workplace, according to the latest Randstad Romania Employer Brand Research 2026. The study reveals that only 51% of Romanian employees believe they are paid enough, significantly below the European average of 58%. At the same time, 28% of respondents say they intend to change jobs in the first half of 2026, while many are already looking for alternatives because they fear losing their current position.

According to the research, salary is the main criterion for choosing an employer for 67% of Romanians, and its importance increases with age and professional experience. While salary is a priority for 64% of Generation Z respondents, the percentage rises to 71% among more experienced employees.

“Salary remains an essential factor for talent, but it does not work in isolation: organizational culture and employee experience are becoming complementary elements that strengthen the employer value proposition and support long-term retention,” said Dagmara Chudzińska-Matysiak, Country Manager of Randstad Romania.

Microsoft Remains Romania’s Most Attractive Employer

The ranking of Romania’s most attractive employers is once again led by Microsoft in 2026, with the company being appreciated for its cutting-edge technology and strong market reputation. ZF Lifetec (TRW) and British American Shared Services Europe complete the podium.

Other companies highly appreciated by Romanian employees include Ford Otosa, Makita, Gedeon Richter, Digi, Banca Transilvania, eMAG, and OMV Petrom. According to the study, employees are attracted not only by competitive salaries but also by strong leadership, stability, and an excellent reputation.

Fear of Layoffs Is Pushing Employees to Look for New Jobs

One of the study’s most important findings is the gap between employees’ intention to change jobs and actual mobility in the labor market. Although 28% of respondents say they plan to change jobs in 2026, the number of those who actually did so in the second half of last year was much lower.

The main reasons employees want to leave their current workplace include:

• insufficient compensation (49%);
• lack of professional growth opportunities (37%);
• the desire for a better work-life balance (30%);
• fear of losing their current job (26%);
• the feeling that their work is not rewarded fairly (26%).

Major Differences Between Generations

The study also highlights important generational differences within the workforce. Generation Z places greater emphasis on flexibility, equal opportunities, and professional development, while also being the most active generation in changing jobs. Millennials prioritize security and stability, while Generation X employees are the most concerned about salary levels and the risk of losing their jobs.

At the same time, employees in digital roles value flexibility and work-life balance more, whereas those in operational roles focus primarily on job security and stable income.

What Romanians Expect from the Ideal Employer

According to the research, the ideal employer profile is primarily defined by salary and benefits, followed by job security, equal opportunities, a pleasant work atmosphere, and career growth opportunities. However, when evaluating their current employer, Romanians appreciate stability and easy access to the workplace the most, revealing a clear gap between expectations and reality in the labor market.

The findings of the Randstad Romania Employer Brand Research 2026 confirm that the Romanian labor market is going through a period of uncertainty, in which employees are increasingly seeking financial stability, job security, and clear career development opportunities. For companies, the challenge is no longer limited to offering competitive salaries, but also to building a credible organizational culture capable of inspiring trust and long-term employee retention.

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Ray Dalio, author of the bestselling book Principles and founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, introduces in his new book, How Countries Go Broke: The Big Cycle, published by ap! (ACT and Politon), a new perspective on how the rise and decline of nations should be understood.

The excerpt below, published exclusively for Careers&Business, explains the need to look beyond current events and understand the recurring patterns that drive major transformations. Debt dynamics, the way supply and demand truly function, and the political or geopolitical shifts that reshape the world are just some of the ideas explored by the author in his latest book.

Exclusive excerpt:

“I believe that, placed in the hands of policymakers and investors, the concepts I explain can help the world function better. Above all, I hope that reading this book will give you:

1. A complete and practical understanding of the Big Debt Cycle. If you want a very concise summary of it, read Part I, and for a deeper understanding, read Part II.
2. A far more practical understanding of how supply and demand actually work compared to the conventional economic view. This topic is covered in detail in Chapter 2, but it is present throughout the entire book.
3. A complete and practical understanding of the Big Cycle as a whole, which is driven by the Big Debt Cycle and other major cycles, including the major internal political cycle that changes the political order within countries, and the major geopolitical cycle that changes the world order. One of the main objectives of this book is to help you understand how the Big Cycle drives these major changes, because I believe we are currently on the brink of such a transformative period. If you were to read only one chapter of this book, Chapter 8 would be the most important.”

A book that provides an essential perspective on how major economic and political cycles shape today’s world and influence the global future.

ap! (ACT and Politon) is one of the most important players on the Romanian book market. Specializing in high-quality nonfiction, the publishing house has introduced local readers to internationally acclaimed authors such as Tim Ferriss, Robin Sharma, Tony Robbins, Wayne Dyer, Steve Harvey, Gino Wickman, and many others. At the same time, ap! (ACT and Politon) is the Romanian publishing house under whose imprint the largest number of audiobooks has been published locally. Launched in 2014, the publisher has brought more than 300 audiobook titles to Romania, many of them global bestsellers that have changed thousands of lives.

ap! (ACT and Politon) believes in continuous development and offers Romanian readers titles covering a wide range of topics, including personal and professional development, business, entrepreneurship, spirituality, and wellbeing. The publisher’s titles are available in classic print format, as well as eBook, MP3, and audiobook editions, allowing readers to enjoy books anytime, anywhere.

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The book Take Control of Your Life: Unleash Influence, Prosperity, and Power by Jim Rohn, recently published by ap! (ACT and Politon), is an invitation to change through self-motivation and conscious daily choices. In the excerpt below, presented exclusively for Careers&Business, the author guides readers toward developing leadership skills and gaining control over their own lives, so they can leave a mark on those around them while also achieving their personal goals.

Exclusive excerpt:

Some people have an incredible zest for life, a strong desire to live beautifully and succeed, while others seem to adopt an apathetic attitude, letting things happen on their own, hoping that somehow everything will work out. I don’t know exactly what makes the difference between people, but I have always been fascinated by observing those who are inspired to make the most of life. Self-motivation is essential for overcoming challenges and difficulties.

It comes as no surprise to anyone that life is a challenge. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this challenge, to recognize the pressure, the constant drive, because it exists every day. And this is precisely the meaning of life: to accept the challenge, to put down deep roots, to become as strong as possible, to accept everything that comes your way and transform every experience into what you want it to be; to give your very best, to strive with all your strength, to think deeply, to read wisely, to live beautifully, and to fight through all adversities. This is the true challenge, and this is what makes life worth living, this is where its value lies: in the struggle for high ideals, in the attempt to build something unique out of your life.

One of the most wonderful experiences a person can have is the power to influence, to convince someone of an idea, to persuade them to buy a product or consider a service, to inspire them to adopt a way of life, an idea, a company, a business, or an enterprise.

INFLUENCE

Influence is one of the most important experiences in life: the chance to influence others, their thinking, their future, perhaps even their lives. From being a manager to a chief executive and even a parent, we all have, in certain ways, the chance and the opportunity to influence someone.

You can become an influential person in an informal, unplanned, or intentional way by learning essential skills. This is the subject I address in this book: acquiring the skills needed to influence others, whether you want to change their way of thinking, sell them a product, present them with an idea, convince them to join a business, or simply help them live a better life, in other words, leadership skills.

Here is the list of the three preliminary skills that lead directly to the five pieces of the “life puzzle,” which are identified and discussed throughout the book:

1. Sincerity
2. Ideas
3. Inspiration

The first is sincerity. To achieve something important and valuable, we must begin with sincerity. I assume you are sincere in your intention to learn how to take control of your own life; otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this book. You wouldn’t have made the effort or gone through everything necessary to reach the point where you take the time to read what I have to say, and I appreciate that. So always start with sincerity. I hope you will also feel my sincerity in wanting to honor your time, effort, and consideration.

However, sincerity is not a guarantee of truth. You should not make the mistake of saying that someone is right just because they are sincere. It is possible to be sincere and still be wrong. I hope you will find me both sincere and accurate, but you will have to decide for yourself what the truth is. Here is the key: measure sincerity with the standard of sincerity, and truth with the standard of truth. Do not measure truth by the standard of sincerity.

In a world where many choose to wait, the real difference is made by those who take action. Jim Rohn’s lessons remind us that success is not accidental, but the result of conscious choices, discipline, and the desire to constantly evolve. Whether you want to become more influential, develop your leadership skills, or build a meaningful life, the first step always begins with you. Choose to take action today.

ap! (ACT and Politon) is one of the most important players in the Romanian book market. Specializing in high-quality nonfiction, the publishing house has brought to the local market a number of authors who have made a global impact, such as Tim Ferriss, Robin Sharma, Tony Robbins, Wayne Dyer, Steve Harvey, Gino Wickman, and many others. At the same time, ap! (ACT and Politon) is the Romanian publisher under whose imprint the largest number of audiobooks have been released locally. Launched in 2014, the publishing house has introduced over 300 audiobook titles in Romania, many of them international bestsellers that have changed thousands of lives.

ap! (ACT and Politon) believes in continuous development and offers Romanian readers titles covering a wide range of subjects, including personal and professional development, business, entrepreneurship, spirituality, and wellbeing. The publisher’s titles are available in both traditional formats and as eBooks, MP3s, or audiobooks, allowing readers to enjoy them at any moment in their lives.

The post Successful people don’t wait, they take action!Excerpt from Take Control of Your Life: Unleash Influence, Prosperity, and Power appeared first on careers-business.com.

The Core Society, a boutique Pilates, Reformer & Mat studio, officially opened its doors this April in Bucharest, on Drumul Dealul Bradului 97, introducing a modern concept designed for those who see movement as a lifestyle rather than a temporary solution.

The launch event brought together journalists, influencers, and fitness enthusiasts, offering a first look at a space created for balance, strength, and consistency. At the heart of this concept is founder Larisa Stanciu, who believes that a strong body is built over time through discipline and constant care.

“Movement is not a 30-day challenge, but a way of life,” she emphasized, highlighting the importance of a sustainable routine that supports both physical and mental well-being.

A space built around community and balance

The Core Society is more than just a fitness studio—it’s a place where community plays a central role. The opening weekend featured free classes, workshops, and activities for both adults and children, fostering meaningful connections among participants.

From Candlelight Pilates sessions to healthy snack workshops, the experience showcased how movement can become a natural and enjoyable part of everyday life.

Personalized training for real results

Classes are held in small groups and led by certified instructors, ensuring personalized attention and programs tailored to each participant’s level. The studio offers Reformer Pilates, Mat Pilates, and Functional Training sessions, all designed to improve strength, stability, and mobility.

Additionally, initiatives like the Mom O’Clock program add value to the community by offering mothers a dedicated space for movement, relaxation, and reconnection.

Accessibility and launch offers

The Core Society provides several membership options tailored to different needs, along with a special launch offer that includes one-to-one sessions at accessible prices.

Through this approach, the studio aims to welcome both experienced practitioners and beginners, offering guidance and support in a friendly and professional environment.

The Core Society redefines how we approach movement, transforming it from an obligation into a daily ritual of self-care. With a concept centered on balance, community, and sustainable progress, the studio positions itself as a go-to destination for anyone looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle in the long run.

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A significant 89% of finance graduates believe they need a transition period before adapting to the requirements of a real job, according to the latest Professionalization Study of the Financial-Accounting Profession in Romania.

In an economic context marked by uncertainty and rising cost-of-living pressures, more young people are choosing finance as a stable and promising career path. However, the gap between theoretical education and real-world business needs remains a major challenge.

The study highlights that although most graduates have a solid theoretical foundation, they are not sufficiently prepared to meet employers’ practical expectations. One of the main gaps identified is the lack of ability to adapt knowledge and assess real-life situations in order to provide solutions.

Additionally, 11% of respondents state that they are not familiar with the real expectations and needs of employers, further complicating their professional integration.

Career choices in the financial field are mainly influenced by role models from family or close networks (55.6%), as well as the perception of the profession as stable and secure (32.2%).

Regarding career paths, most graduates aim to start as employees in financial-accounting departments, while others consider entrepreneurship or public sector roles.

The role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) remains attractive to young professionals, being associated with impact and visibility, but also with high levels of responsibility.

The study emphasizes the importance of mentorship and guidance in the early stages of a career, key factors for developing and retaining young professionals in the field.

The study shows that although the financial field remains an attractive choice for young people due to its stability and career prospects, there is a significant gap between theoretical education and the real demands of employers. Most graduates feel the need for a transition period to adapt, while the lack of practical experience and understanding of the professional environment makes their integration more difficult. In this context, mentorship and guidance become essential for building a sustainable career in finance.

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A paradigm shift: from corporate stability to direct impact

After more than two decades in banking, Florin Pop made a move that more and more senior leaders are considering: stepping out of rigid corporate structures into a flexible, impact-driven model, fractional leadership.

This transition was not just a change in role, but a shift in mindset. In banking, responsibilities were clearly defined and career paths predictable. In contrast, the fractional environment brings a diverse set of challenges with each project. What it offers in return is the freedom to directly influence strategic decisions and visibly contribute to the evolution of businesses.

Together with Roxana Gherghelescu, Florin Pop co-founded Capital Decisions, a hub that quickly evolved from a simple entrepreneurial initiative into a dynamic network of professionals delivering outsourced CFO services. Today, the ecosystem spans the entire financial spectrum, from planning and reporting to complex transactions and international expansion.

The fractional CFO: between myths and reality

One of the biggest barriers to adopting this model is misunderstanding the role. Many entrepreneurs still equate a fractional CFO with a part-time position or confuse it with accounting.

In reality, the distinction is fundamental. While accounting focuses on the past, recording and compliance, the fractional CFO focuses on the future: strategy, forecasting, optimization, and risk management.

Another common misconception is that an external professional cannot generate real impact. In practice, however, broad cross-industry experience allows these leaders to quickly identify issues and implement effective solutions within weeks.

From a cost perspective, the model is not only efficient but strategic: companies gain access to top-tier expertise without the financial burden of a full-time executive.

Where the real value lies: critical business moments

The impact of a fractional CFO becomes most visible in three key scenarios:

High-growth companies that lack a solid financial structure. Here, the intervention brings order, predictability, and the ability to scale sustainably.

Mature organizations experiencing stagnation and needing internal optimization. In such cases, cost analysis, process efficiency, and strategic repositioning are essential.

Companies facing major decisions, such as fundraising, exits, or international expansion, where financial modeling and scenario planning can determine success or failure.

A relevant example is a food industry business where intervention led to a detailed understanding of cost structures and operations, ultimately paving the way for attracting international investors.

Structure, discipline, and vision: what collaboration looks like

Collaborations led by Florin Pop typically follow a structured, medium-term process, often lasting at least a year. It begins with a thorough diagnostic phase, followed by the creation of reporting systems that provide real visibility into the business.

Next comes operational discipline: continuous KPI monitoring, performance analysis, and strategic adjustments. On this foundation, major initiatives are built, such as securing financing, optimizing operations, or executing transactions.

The outcome is not just incremental improvement, but the creation of a financial infrastructure capable of supporting long-term growth.

The future of executive work: flexibility and specialization

The fractional model is no longer a niche alternative, it is becoming a clear direction for the evolution of work. Companies are becoming more agile, while senior professionals are seeking autonomy and diversity.

In this context, fractional leadership networks like Capital Decisions play an increasingly important role. They not only connect expertise with market needs, but also create collaborative environments where impact is amplified.

For professionals considering this path, the roadmap is clear: define your unique value, build a strong network, and adapt to a dynamic environment where each project brings new challenges.

Florin Pop thus outlines a new form of leadership: more flexible, closely aligned with entrepreneurial realities, and deeply results-oriented. In a constantly changing economy, this model not only meets current needs but also redefines how top-level expertise is delivered and leveraged.

This material is an original editorial feature, created based on an interview previously published in our niche publication, Fractional.
The full interview is available here.

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He is a professional with over 20 years of experience in leadership, communication, and management, built across very diverse industries, from media and public administration to NGOs and strategic consulting.

He currently holds the role of Executive Director at Școala Liberă Waldorf Sophia in Brașov, where he oversees the organization’s strategic and operational direction in a context that requires balancing educational vision, financial sustainability, and growth.

His career path has not been linear, but rather guided by projects that share a common essential element: real impact on people and communities.

C&B: If we were to look at a narrative thread of your career, what were the key moments that defined you?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: Looking back, the thread of my career is built around the idea of building and transforming.

I started in media and communication, in organizations such as TVR and Kanal D, where I learned how messages are crafted and how public perception is influenced. It was a very intense period that trained me to quickly understand people and context.

Later, I transitioned into the NGO and sustainability space, through projects developed within Green Revolution Association and later as the founder of MAINOI Association, as well as in my role as Sustainability Manager at Electric Castle Festival. That’s where I learned what real impact means and how to build initiatives that mobilize communities and change behaviors.

As I matured, both professionally and personally, including through my role as a mother, my move toward the education sector came naturally, through my position as Marketing & Communication Manager at All About Parenting by Urania Cremene. There, I worked directly with parent communities, built relevant communication strategies, and gained a deep understanding of the real needs of families in relation to education. This was למעשה my first profound interaction with this field.

A defining moment in my career was entering public administration, within the Brașov City Hall, where I coordinated external relations, tourism, and the city’s events. Managing a significant budget and complex projects with impact on an entire city taught me what responsibility at scale truly means.

And the most recent chapter, my role as Executive Director at Școala Liberă Waldorf Sophia, is perhaps the most complex, as it brings together all these experiences into a living system where every decision has a direct impact on people, from children and parents to the team and the wider community.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: The most difficult point wasn’t a single moment, but rather two major transitions, each with its own challenges.

The first was moving into public administration, a very different environment from where I came from. It brought a different pace, clear structures, slower processes, and a high level of institutional complexity. I had to learn how to navigate a system where decisions depend not only on efficiency, but also on context, procedures, and multiple levels of validation. It was a period in which I learned patience, as well as how to achieve results within an apparently rigid framework.

The second difficult transition was entering the private education system in an executive role. If in public administration the challenge was structure and pace, here the difficulty comes from the sensitivity of the field. In education, decisions are never just operational or financial—they are deeply human, with direct impact on children, parents, and teams. I had to recalibrate my decision-making approach and constantly balance vision, reality, and emotion.

Looking back, I’ve realized that what helped me move forward each time was flexibility. The ability to adapt quickly, understand context, and build the right solutions for each environment has become my professional superpower.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: If I were to summarize it in a personal motto, it would be: “Be yourself and change the world.”

It’s an idea that has consistently guided me, including during the time I built an NGO around this principle. Beyond the wording, it has never been just a slogan for me, but a deep belief: real change begins when people truly embrace who they are and act from that place.

Looking back, all stages of my career, whether in media, NGOs, public administration, or education, have had one common denominator: the desire to build projects that have meaning and create real impact, not just immediate results.

I was never motivated by status, but by contribution. I’ve always been interested in how I can genuinely influence people, communities, or systems.

Today, this principle is very clearly reflected in the field of education. I believe it is one of the few areas where you can generate deep change, even if not immediately. And our role as leaders is to create contexts where people can become themselves and, from that place, contribute further.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed since then?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: At the beginning, I was very execution-oriented, focused on doing things well and quickly. I had a lot of energy, determination, and a strong need to prove that I could deliver results.

Over time, things changed. I realized that it’s not enough to do things well, it’s essential to understand why you’re doing them and how everything connects within a larger system.

The most important transformation was the shift from execution to building. From solving things to creating contexts in which things work without constant intervention.

I’ve become more attentive to people, dynamics, and rhythm. If at the beginning I focused on results, today I focus much more on process and sustainability.

At the same time, I’ve become more comfortable with uncertainty. I no longer feel the need to control everything, but rather to understand direction and create the framework in which the team can perform.

In essence, my transformation has been from proving to building and supporting growth, both for organizations and for the people around me.

C&B: If we spoke to your collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: I think they would first say that I am demanding. I have high standards and I want things to be done well, with meaning and responsibility.

At the same time, I believe they would say I am involved and present. I’m not a distant leader, I like to deeply understand things, stay close to the team, and build alongside people, not just coordinate from a distance.

They would probably also say that I don’t avoid difficult decisions. I prefer clarity, even when it’s uncomfortable, because in the long run it creates stability and trust.

And perhaps most importantly, I think they would say I am consistent. I don’t change my principles depending on the context, and I try to build an environment where people know what to expect.

Last but not least, I hope they would say I am a leader who sees potential in people and supports them to grow, not just to perform.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: The most important decision was stepping out of my area of expertise, communication and marketing, and moving into management.

Although I had consistently held coordination and project management roles for teams of over 150 people, the truly defining moment was entering a leadership position in public administration. It was the first context in which responsibility was no longer just about delivering projects, but about an entire system: teams, significant budgets, and, most importantly, managing public resources.

It was not a comfortable transition. I entered an environment with clear rules, complex processes, and high expectations, where I had to learn quickly and make decisions with real impact. It was probably the most intense way I could have made the transition from specialist to leader.

That experience completely changed my perspective. I began to think holistically, to take ownership not only of direction but also of the consequences of decisions.

Looking back, that was the turning point, the moment I moved from building strategies to building systems and organizations.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style and decision-making approach? Was it natural or learned?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: It was definitely a combination of something natural and something learned over time.

Naturally, I’ve always had the tendency to take responsibility and move things forward when I believed in an idea. I’ve organized and coordinated people from early stages in my life, without necessarily aiming for it, it was simply how I functioned.

At the same time, true leadership has been, and still is, a continuous learning process. I’ve learned, and I’m still learning, how to understand people, accept them as they are, and create a framework where everyone can contribute their best.

When it comes to decision-making, it didn’t come naturally at first. It involved a lot of personal development—learning not to postpone, not to chase perfection, and to take decisions even when not all the answers are available.

Today, leadership for me means clarity and accountability, but also the ability to build a context in which people are involved in decision-making. I strongly believe that people shouldn’t just execute, but contribute, understand, and over time learn to take ownership of their own decisions.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the most satisfaction?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: In reality, there is no “typical” day—and I think that’s one of the things I enjoy most about my current role.

My days are a mix of strategic decisions and very concrete, sometimes unexpected situations. I might start with discussions about budgets, development, or organizational direction, and continue with meetings with the team, parents, or partners. It’s a role that requires being present on multiple levels at once.

What brings me the most satisfaction are the moments when I see things working coherently without my direct intervention. That means the team is aligned, processes are well built, and direction is clear.

At the same time, the small moments matter too: a meaningful conversation with a colleague, positive feedback from a parent, or those meetings when new parents visit the kindergarten or school and you can see their joy and relief in finding the right place for their children.

For me, satisfaction doesn’t come only from results, but from building an organization that grows in a healthy way and from developing the people who support it.

C&B: What values or principles guide you, and how do you apply them daily?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: I believe three things constantly guide me: a sense of fairness, professionalism, and humanity.

Fairness is essential to me. I try to make balanced and honest decisions, even when they are not the easiest or most convenient. In the long run, I believe fairness builds trust and stability.

Professionalism comes from respect, for the work itself and for the people I work with. It means clarity, responsibility, and consistency: doing things well, not just well enough.

But beyond these, I strongly believe in the human dimension, in the ability to connect with others, understand them, and take their context into account. Leadership is not just about goals and results, but also about people.

In practice, this means making fair decisions, staying consistent, and at the same time remaining attentive to people and the context I work in.

C&B: If you were to send a message to those who follow your example, what would it be?

Nicoleta Cîrjan: I think the most important thing is not to wait for the “perfect” moment.

We often tend to postpone decisions or important steps until we feel fully ready. In reality, clarity comes from action, not from waiting.

At the same time, it’s important to stay true to your direction and values, even when the context becomes difficult or unpredictable. It’s easy to adapt externally, but harder to remain aligned with yourself.

And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget that the things that truly matter are built over time. There are no real results without consistency, patience, and accountability.

If I were to put it in one sentence: start, stay consistent, and build something that has meaning for you, not just something that looks good to others.

Nicoleta Cîrjan’s journey shows that authentic leadership is not built overnight, but through diverse experiences, deliberate decisions, and a constant drive to create real impact. From communication to management and education, each stage has contributed to shaping a balanced leadership style centered on people, values, and sustainability. Her message remains clear: progress comes from action, consistency, and the courage to build something meaningful.

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On days when everything feels hard to handle, even though the tasks are simple, we are dealing with accumulated fatigue, which ends up affecting how anyone manages decisions. Exhaustion does not appear suddenly; it builds over time and can go unnoticed. Emily Austen, the author of the book Smarter, recently published by ap! (ACT and Politon), discusses in her book, SMARTER: 10 Lessons for a More Productive and Less Stressful Life, the slow onset of burnout and how it affects everyday life.

The excerpt below invites the reader to do a simple exercise and answer a few questions that will help identify burnout and discover ways to eliminate it.

Do you never feel like socializing? Do you find it hard to decide what to eat for breakfast or what to wear?

Exhaustion caused by decision fatigue means we do not care enough to make any kind of decision that could lead to major changes, such as moving to another country or suddenly quitting our job.

Have you recently behaved like an angry, irrational person for no real reason?

This is a clear sign that you are dealing with exhaustion. You no longer have any tolerance for anything, and your actions are based on panic and adrenaline rather than logic and analysis. This is often a way of counterbalancing the numbness you feel, you need more intense actions to generate stimulation, which can then lead to reckless or completely uncharacteristic behavior.

Do you generally feel tired?

If you constantly feel tired, no matter how much you sleep, if your body aches, you have headaches, a general sense of fatigue, and a feeling of heaviness throughout your body, this is a clear sign that your body is not functioning at full capacity.

Do you often find yourself panicking and obsessively worrying about minor things, sometimes things you may not have even done?

A constant state of stress or anxiety is not normal. It becomes overwhelming, destructive, and exhausting, and you end up no longer being able to “see the forest for the trees.” Nausea, restless sleep, crying, and loss of appetite are all symptoms of prolonged worry and anxiety.

EXHAUSTION (BURNOUT)

I’m sorry to tell you this, but if you answered “yes” to at least two of the questions above, it is very likely that you are experiencing exhaustion. Exhaustion makes mornings feel impossible.

So, what are you going to do about it? Keep going until you collapse? Stop altogether? Post your score on TikTok? Sure, all of these might work in the short term, but let’s talk about smarter, long-term ways of coping with the world we live in. We don’t have to swing between extremes. In this book, I hope to share what I’ve learned over more than a decade of struggling with exhaustion, to save you from spending tens of thousands of pounds by presenting both good (and bad!) solutions I’ve invested in, and to offer you something that resembles hope. A light to show you that it doesn’t have to be this hard. That, in fact, we all have more options when it comes to outcomes than we are told. You are strong, brave, and capable. Self-acceptance is essential for success; it is how you will be able to harness your potential without losing your inner light.

One of the most important ways to identify and avoid exhaustion is to clearly understand the tendencies and patterns in your routine. Just as a food journal provides an honest and revealing perspective on our eating habits, the same methodology works for other habits as well. Given that habits are defined as behaviors that are repeated regularly and tend to occur subconsciously, this is an important starting point. You need to clearly know what habits you currently have so that later you can positively influence them with awareness.

Try using this simple template and start by noting your habits as they occur throughout the day, along with the time they happen.

Recognizing exhaustion early is the first step toward a more balanced life. Learn to observe your habits and prevent burnout before it overwhelms you.

ap! (ACT and Politon) is one of the most important players in the Romanian book market. Specializing in high-quality nonfiction, the publishing house has brought to the local market a series of authors who have made waves worldwide, such as Tim Ferriss, Robin Sharma, Tony Robbins, Wayne Dyer, Steve Harvey, Gino Wickman, and many others. At the same time, ap! (ACT and Politon) is the Romanian publisher under whose imprint the largest number of audiobooks have been released locally. Launched in 2014, the publishing house has brought over 300 audiobook titles to Romania, many of them bestsellers that have traveled around the world and changed thousands of lives.

ap! (ACT and Politon) believes in continuous development and brings Romanian readers titles that cover a wide range of topics, from personal and professional development to business, entrepreneurship, spirituality, and wellbeing. The publisher’s titles are available in both classic format and as eBooks, MP3s, or audiobooks, allowing readers to enjoy reading at any moment in their lives.

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Silviu Gresoi, PhD in AI and Data Science Lead, AI & Machine Learning Specialist, Co-Founder & Board Member of APCF, has over 20 years of experience in transforming data into intelligent, business-ready solutions.

He works at the intersection of AI and decision-making, developing models and strategies that bring clarity, efficiency, and real impact. Actively involved in education, he contributes to the understanding and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

C&B: If we were to look at a narrative thread of your career, what were the key moments that defined you?
Silviu Greșoi: Many key moments come to mind. One of them was when I implemented my first Machine Learning system about 15 years ago. That’s when I knew this was the future: machine learning and AI support in detecting and profiling fraudulent customers. I remember telling a colleague that this was the direction, and my perception at the time proved to be correct.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
Silviu Greșoi: One of the most difficult moments was when the projects I committed to had extremely tight implementation deadlines. It’s not easy to tell your boss, CEO, or an investor that things will take longer because testing phases haven’t been completed on time. There are many obstacles in a professional career, especially when you are leading teams, but if problems are handled properly, they can be solved, and difficult situations can turn into valuable lessons.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Silviu Greșoi: Yes, my ambition has always been to make artificial intelligence easy to understand, useful, and truly applicable. I wanted to use AI and data analysis to help organizations make better, safer, and more ethical decisions, while also contributing to the development of a strong culture of anti-fraud and compliance, both in Romania and internationally.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed since then?
Silviu Greșoi: At the beginning, I was mainly driven by curiosity and the desire to understand. As I’ve also said on LinkedIn, learning is a continuous process, especially in AI and Data Science. Eighteen years ago, I had just one Machine Learning book and many questions.
Today, I have an entire collection of answers… but even more questions. The difference is that now I can turn this understanding into real solutions with impact.

C&B: If we spoke with your collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Silviu Greșoi: They would probably say that I am results-oriented, visionary, and that I always try to turn complex things into clear and actionable solutions.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Silviu Greșoi: One of the most important decisions was to consistently invest in teaching and guiding others. Being involved in training, courses, and mentorship not only helped others grow, but also changed my own perspective, forcing me to simplify, structure, and apply knowledge more clearly in practice.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or decision-making approach? Was it natural or learned?
Silviu Greșoi: It was both learned and experienced. It was built through experiences, mistakes, and the responsibility toward the people I work with. Over time, I understood that leadership is less about you and more about how you help others grow.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what moments bring you the most satisfaction?
Silviu Greșoi: The day starts, like for many of us, with emails, meetings, and priorities that shift along the way. The greatest satisfaction comes from moments when things make sense, when you solve a problem, see a concrete result, or when someone learns something new from what you’ve explained.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them daily?
Silviu Greșoi: Clarity. Responsibility. Continuous learning. Integrity. Collaboration.

C&B: If you were to share a message with people who follow your example, what would it be?
Silviu Greșoi: Never stop learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most of the time, progress comes exactly from the things you don’t yet know.

Discover valuable insights on AI, leadership, and continuous learning from a professional shaping the future of data-driven decision-making.

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Continental Hotels has announced the reopening of Continental Forum Oradea following an extensive renovation and modernization process worth approximately RON 20 million. The project marks the hotel’s repositioning as a key player in the city’s 4-star segment.

Continental Forum Oradea has officially reopened its doors after undergoing a major renovation project that lasted approximately one and a half years and exceeded €4 million in value. The works, which began in November 2024 and were completed in April 2026, focused on a complete transformation of the hotel, from guest rooms and common areas to technical infrastructure.

All 168 rooms have been fully reconfigured to meet modern comfort standards. The upgrades included complete bathroom renovations, replacement of doors with fire-resistant ones, modernization of access systems, and the addition of new or refurbished furniture, smart TVs, and contemporary lighting. The average investment per room amounted to approximately €24,000.

Company representatives emphasized that the project went beyond a simple refurbishment, aiming instead for a comprehensive upgrade of the entire guest experience. “We did not aim for just a renovation, but for a coherent intervention across the entire product, from rooms and common areas to infrastructure and services,” said Radu Enache, CEO of Continental Hotels.

In addition to accommodation areas, all common spaces have been fully redesigned, now featuring a cohesive and contemporary look. The food & beverage area has also been upgraded with new professional equipment, designed to improve operational efficiency and service quality, particularly for breakfast service.

A key component of the project was the modernization of the technical infrastructure. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems have been completely replaced, the heating plant has been upgraded and automated, and fire safety systems have been brought up to current standards. At the same time, the IT and communications infrastructure has been fully upgraded, including TV, voice-data networks, and Wi-Fi.

Following the renovation, the hotel strengthens its position in both the corporate and urban leisure segments, benefiting from its central location on the banks of the Crișul Repede River. A distinctive feature is the versatility of its spaces, including a restaurant and event rooms located on the upper floors, offering panoramic views of the city. Additional amenities, such as the geothermal water pool, further enhance the guest experience.

The reopening of Continental Forum Oradea is part of Continental Hotels’ broader strategy to continuously evaluate and adapt its portfolio in line with market trends and strategic priorities.

Through this significant investment, Continental Hotels reaffirms its commitment to modernizing Romania’s hospitality infrastructure and delivering services aligned with current standards, while strengthening its position in the local market.

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