Almira Dlimbetova is an entrepreneur, athlete, and mother of three. She manages a network of medical centers, owns a pastry business, climbs mountains, and competes in marathons. How does she balance all these areas, where does she find the energy, and what principles help her in business and life? We discussed all this in our interview.

Where do you find the secret source of energy that keeps you going?

Energy is not just about physical strength; it’s an internal flow that comes from meaning and purpose. For me, it’s not just work or a hobby — it’s the understanding that every day, I am building something important for myself and others.

Running a network of medical centers, I know I am helping people; it’s not just a business but a way to make a real difference in someone’s life. In my pastry business, every flavor is a piece of joy that can be shared. Mountains teach me humility and resilience, showing how important it is to be in the moment and to let go when necessary.

Raising children adds even greater meaning and depth to all of this. They say the future is reflected in a child’s eyes, and that sense of responsibility inspires me to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges. My family is my place of strength, where I can always recharge and find support when my energy is running low.

When all these aspects of life come together, there is a sense of complete balance. And it is this deep connection to what I do that gives me strength.

What is harder for you – climbing Mount Elbrus or building a successful business? Is there anything they have in common?

Both paths require tremendous effort, but honestly, I would say that building a successful business is harder than climbing Elbrus.

A mountain, no matter how impressive and dangerous, is ultimately a physical challenge — you can prepare for it and push through your body’s limitations. But building a business is a continuous process of overcoming not just external obstacles but also internal ones — decision-making, risks, doubts.

On this journey, you face countless variables, and each time, you have to rise again after failures. Elbrus is a peak, but a successful business is a long road, one that can be even more difficult and unpredictable.

You have competed in international races and climbed some of the highest peaks. Have you ever had a moment when you wanted to turn back and say, “I can’t do this anymore”?

Yes, I have, and those moments are inevitable.

At high altitudes, when you see endless horizons and every step requires immense effort, or during a marathon, when your energy is drained but there are still miles ahead — you feel like you just can’t go on. This is probably the hardest moment when your entire body is saying “stop,” but your mind still pulls you forward toward the goal.

But it is in these moments that you truly test yourself — how strong you really are. You have to learn to listen not just to your body but also to your inner voice, which tells you that you are stronger than you think, that you still have reserves. And you mentally bring yourself back to the goal, realizing just how much you want to reach it.

You understand that all these difficulties are not the end but just a phase, and that once you push past your limits, you become different — stronger than before. I always remind myself that such moments are not a reason to give up but an opportunity to grow.

Sports are about endurance, discipline, and perseverance. What principles from mountain climbing and marathons do you apply to business and life?

Mountains and marathons teach many things, especially how to deal with challenges and overcome them step by step.

First, patience. In the mountains, you can’t rush — every step must be deliberate and calculated. The same applies to business; quick decisions are not always the best ones. Consistency and well-thought-out moves help you stay focused on long-term goals.

Second, dealing with failures. In the mountains, things don’t always go as planned: the weather changes, health issues arise, or the route is tougher than expected. But you learn not to give up and to find new paths and solutions.

The same is true in business and life. There are moments when everything seems to go wrong. The key is to analyze, learn from mistakes, and move forward without losing faith in the end goal.

Third, discipline and consistency. In sports, you won’t achieve results if you skip training or procrastinate. The same goes for business — only structured actions and a systematic approach can drive progress.

And finally, learning to be present. When you are on a peak or running a marathon, it’s essential to enjoy the process rather than focusing only on the finish line. In life and business, this is just as relevant — if you are always thinking about what’s next, you lose the meaning of the present moment, and it is the present that fuels your next step.

Mountains and marathons teach resilience but also flexibility — the ability to adapt and see opportunities where others see only obstacles.

You are a mother of three. What important lessons do you want to pass on to your children? How do you teach them not to fear big goals?

I want my children to believe in themselves and not be afraid of big goals.

It’s important to understand that success is not an instant result but a journey full of effort, mistakes, and growth. I teach them not to fear failure but to see it as an opportunity to develop. The main thing is to believe in yourself, take steps forward, and enjoy the process rather than focusing only on the final goal.

I show them by example that it’s never too late to learn something new, discover new passions, and try different directions. My dream is for them to live with open hearts, find their happiness, and truly embrace life.