At IMAGINE Traduzioni, we believe that “going above and beyond” means first and foremost truly listening to the person in front of us.
Indeed, it is only when we have a deep understanding of people’s needs that we can help them go beyond their own limits.
That is why, in the third episode of “People who go above and beyond”, we chose to tell the story of Astrid and Stefano.
In just a few minutes with them, you can realise that it far more than a mere story about changing one’s job. You can feel what happens when someone pays attention not only to words, but also focuses on feelings and everything left unsaid.
The line that really sums them up comes almost at once, as Stefano says it with disarming simplicity:
«Dining out one less pizza is a small price to pay and it’s worth it.»
While it may seem like a joke, it is a serious life choice. It is where everything begins.
For years, Astrid had been building what most people would have called the “perfect” career. With a degree in geology, she struggled to find her place in a field that, at the time, offered few opportunities for women. So she reinvented herself, working as a management control consultant.
It was a stable, well-remunerated job, but one that conflicted with her personal identity.
«I was bringing other people’s ideas to life, but deep down I was aware that this was not the right career path for me.»
That sense of misalignment grew slowly, until it became impossible to ignore. Then came a decision that was both simple and radical: setting off alone for four days in the Casentinesi Forests. Stefano gave Astrid the time she needed. In the meantime she began walking, breathing and keeping silent. And it was there that something finally took shape.
«I told myself: enough. I want to try doing what I truly feel is meant for me.»
At the core of this aspiration has always been a deep connection with nature.
Since she was young, Astrid had dreamed of a life outdoors. She had chosen geology for that very reason, but over time that desire had been set aside, as if it were something waiting to be truly heard.
Today, Astrid is an Environmental Hiking Guide. Its Italian acronym is GAE. She guides people through woodlands, mountains and trails, sharing knowledge about the landscape, biodiversity and local history, while fostering respect for the environment. Today she does so with a sparkle in her eyes – thanks, in part, to Stefano.
While everyone else was encouraging her to keep her secure job, Stefano did something different: he truly listened. Not to the job Astrid had, but to the person she was becoming.
«This is your life, you’re made for this. Don’t worry, I’ll cover the expenses. I’ll happily give up a pizza if it means seeing you happy.»
Stefano continues to work as an employee while Astrid builds her own business. But his role goes far beyond that. He is a constant presence: collaborating, supporting, and offering trust every day.
He accompanies her on site visits, uses a 3D printer to create models of the routes, helps prepare excursions, and often brings up the rear, taking on the least visible role.
When Astrid imagines a new route, he follows.
«She walks into a forest without knowing where the path will lead. I follow her. I trust her.»
And perhaps this is the key word that encapsulates their entire narrative: Trust.
When we ask Astrid what the key was to going above and beyond, and building her new life, her answer comes without hesitation:
«Dreaming something better is everyone’s right. But that’s not enough. You have to work hard and focus on a dream that is truly achievable».
Looking back at their story, perhaps going above and beyond means having the courage to listen to what truly makes us happy, and having someone beside us who believes in us.
Thank you, Astrid and Stefano.
May your journey continue to be a fulfilling one!
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Everyone has a story worth telling.
With “People who go above and beyond”, we want to give a voice to those who build, innovate and add value to the world, to those who, at least once in their life, has ignored sensible advice in order to create something greater; to those who challenge their own limits; and to those who continue to believe, every single day, that despite everything, anything is possible.
If you enjoyed this interview, share it or tell us about a “person who goes above and beyond” who should be featured in this series.