When launching or scaling a business, it’s important to build a network, but equally important to step away from the desk. More work is not the answer. You have to take care of yourself to have energy, stoke creativity and avoid burnout.
This advice is from a female founder and serial entrepreneur who works between New York and Bogota, Adelaida Diaz-Roa, who is most recently the co-founder of Onde-Vamos.com, “a marketplace for all event and production needs.
With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience in the US and Colombia, Diaz-Roa has launched and scaled businesses that leverage innovation, technology, and social impact to transform traditional landscapes. She secured a deal on Shark Tank, exited two ventures, and learned lessons along the way while gaining invaluable insights and skills in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship.
As the CEO & Co-Founder of Onde, her latest endeavor, she is “passionate about unlocking the potential of spaces and creating connections. Onde is a marketplace of spaces and services for events, productions, and memorable encounters. We’re opening the doors to the most unexpected and underutilized corners of Latin America, where spaces come to life. Onde is more than a platform; it’s a community where people can discover, book, and host amazing experiences.” Here is her advice to others interested in launching and scaling their own businesses.
What advice would you give your younger self?
If I could share a piece of advice with my younger self, it would undoubtedly emphasize the incredible value of networking. Understanding the power of a robust network earlier could have significantly magnified my opportunities, from brainstorming and partnership formation to opening doors I never knew existed.
I’d also tell my younger self that the answer isn’t always more work. While dedication is crucial, it’s equally important to prioritize health and well-being.
Overworking can lead to burnout, which is counterproductive in achieving long-term goals. Balancing work with personal health not only sustains your energy but also enhances your efficiency and creativity.
Always remember, your network is not just a career tool, but a treasure trove of ideas, support, and potential waiting to be unlocked. And health is the foundation that allows you to leverage every opportunity that comes your way.
You inspire women through your leadership and fearlessness. Who was your inspiration and why?
My inspiration for leadership and fearlessness largely came from witnessing the resilience and determination of my mother. Growing up, I saw her face numerous challenges after moving us to the U.S. for a better life.
Despite the difficulties, she never wavered in her determination to provide for my sister and me. She took jobs well below her qualifications and relentlessly pursued a better future for us. This taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of striving for one’s goals regardless of the obstacles.
Additionally, my entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by my mother’s ability to adapt and thrive in new environments. Her example showed me that with hard work and a positive attitude, one can navigate and overcome any challenge. She instilled in me a sense of responsibility and the courage to take risks, which have been fundamental to my success as a leader.
Through her actions, my mother taught me that leadership is about making tough decisions with compassion and integrity, and that being fearless isn’t about the absence of fear, but about pressing forward despite it. Her life’s story and strength continue to inspire me to empower and lead others, especially women, to recognize and reach their full potential.
What advice do you give to Help Others Get Started ON THEIR JOURNEY, or who says, “I could never do that”?
When someone says, “I could never do that,” I encourage them to shift their perspective. I advise them to start by breaking down the seemingly impossible into smaller, manageable steps. Begin by setting small, achievable goals that gradually build toward the larger objective. This approach helps to demystify the challenge and gradually builds confidence.
I also emphasize the importance of mindset. Changing the phrase “I could never do that” to “I haven’t done that yet” can open up a world of possibilities. This subtle shift in language fosters a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as opportunities to learn and improve rather than insurmountable barriers.
Additionally, I stress the importance of embracing the learning process. Seeking knowledge, asking for advice, and gathering resources are crucial steps. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who have walked the path before you. Their insights and encouragement can be invaluable as you navigate new territories.
Lastly, I remind them to be patient and persistent. Progress takes time, and success often comes to those who are willing to persevere through setbacks and continue pushing forward, even when results aren’t immediately visible.
How do you stay motivated to keep going once you’ve met your goals?
I stay motivated by constantly setting new challenges for myself. After reaching a goal, I immediately look for the next opportunity to grow, whether that’s through starting a new project, improving existing ones, or learning something entirely out of my comfort zone. I also take time to reflect on my past achievements, which not only boosts my confidence but also reignites my passion to push further.
Celebrating these victories with my team and community reminds me of the impact of our work, driving me to continue making a difference. Lastly, I draw tremendous energy from mentoring others and sharing my experiences, which reinforces my own drive and commitment to my goals.
Do you have a mantra or words you live by that have helped you through tough times and kept you going?
Yes, the mantra that has significantly guided me through challenging times and continues to inspire persistence is: “Everything happens for a reason—trust the process.” This phrase helps me maintain perspective during setbacks or unexpected turns. It reminds me that there is often a hidden lesson or opportunity in each difficulty, nudging me toward a potentially better path.
Embracing this mindset encourages patience and open-mindedness, allowing me to consider that what seems like a failure today could lead to greater opportunities tomorrow. It fosters a sense of calm acceptance and readiness to adapt, qualities essential for navigating the uncertainties of life and career with resilience.
Anything else we haven’t already asked—your secret to success or advice/tips you love to share with others?
There are a couple of core principles that have profoundly shaped my approach to success and personal development. First, it’s essential to establish personal and professional boundaries for well-being, but within those boundaries, strive to be generous.
Generosity enriches connections and opens doors, creating a network of support and opportunity. Second, act with high integrity—this means doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Integrity is not just about how others perceive you, but also about being true to yourself.
This internal consistency is crucial as the most important relationship you have is with yourself. How you talk to yourself, the promises you keep to yourself, and the integrity you maintain in private moments build authenticity and confidence, raising your vibrations to attract more people and opportunities into your life.
Lastly, when facing challenges, think about ‘who’ can help you, not ‘how’ you can do it alone. Leveraging the strengths of others not only accelerates problem-solving but also enhances innovation by integrating diverse skills and perspectives. These principles are not merely strategies; they are commitments to a way of living and working that fosters personal growth, authenticity, and sustainable success.
Follow Onde on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/onde.oficial/
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