NAME: NADINA RONC
INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @nadinaronc
JOB TITLE: Author and Russian Foreign Policy Specialist
Nadina is an author, journalist and political analyst specialising in Russian foreign policy, energy diplomacy, and the Western Balkans. Throughout her career, she has worked with major media outlets such as CNBC, Fox Business, and TRT World, and she has been published by Anadolu Agency, Middle East Eye, Journal of Peace and War Studies and Al Jazeera English.
Nadina's journey began with a personal connection to conflict - she fled the war in Bosnia as a child. That experience shaped her perspective and inspired her memoir, Daughters of Dissidents Need Not Apply, where she explores themes of survival, resilience, and justice.
Today we learn about Nadina's biggest life lessons to-date:
#LIFELESSON – 1 - Risk Taking
I was prevented from doing many things and I talk about it in my memoir. So, I wanted to break out from those chains and have a life. I’ve always believed that you can’t just sit back—you have to chase your dreams, even if it means taking risks. Writing my memoir was one of those risks. There were difficult moments, and there still are, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know what’s possible.
Taking risks is essential for growth. Fear of failure holds many people back, but the real failure is never trying at all. Every successful person has faced setbacks, yet their willingness to push forward is what sets them apart. Failure isn’t the end—it’s a lesson. Each mistake teaches you something valuable, whether it’s a better approach, a new skill, or a deeper understanding of yourself.
My advice? Don’t let fear stop you. True growth happens when you step out of your comfort zone, embrace uncertainty, and persist despite obstacles. Even if you don’t succeed right away, you’ll still be ahead of those who never tried. Life rewards those who take bold steps. So, go after that dream, take that chance, and trust that every effort brings you closer to success. The only real failure is never trying at all.
#LIFELESSON – 2 - Health
About three years ago, I realized how much sugar was affecting my energy and focus. While I never ate processed foods—because Bosnians cook homemade meals—I had a weakness for sweets. My mom and I decided to cut out sugar completely, and the results were life changing. We felt stronger, and more energized.
The biggest lesson? Your health is your greatest asset. Without it, success and achievements lose their meaning. Small, daily choices—eating nourishing food, staying active, and getting enough rest—build the foundation for long-term well-being. Many people don’t think about their health until problems arise, but by then, it’s often harder to fix.
My advice: don’t wait. Start today by making mindful choices. Drink more water, move your body, and prioritize sleep. You don’t have to make drastic changes overnight—consistency is key. Your future self will thank you. True wealth isn’t money—it’s having the strength and energy to truly enjoy life.
#LIFELESSON – 3 Relationships and Time
There was a time when I was so focused on building a career that I let other opportunities slip away. I thought I was doing the right thing, but looking back, I realize how much I missed—memories I could have made, moments I could have cherished. Time moves fast, and once it’s gone, you can’t get it back.
The biggest lesson I learned? You can always make more money, but you can never regain lost time. Spend it wisely—on meaningful experiences, personal growth, and with the people who matter most. Don’t waste it on negativity, toxic relationships, or things that don’t bring you joy.
At the end of life, success isn’t measured by how much you’ve earned, but by the love and connections you’ve built. Nurture relationships with family, friends, and yourself. True wealth isn’t in your bank account—it’s in the moments you create and the people you share them with.
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