Laura Varela Fallas - My Journey and Lessons for Future Entrepreneurs

I still remember the exact moment when I realized I wanted to build something of my own. I was sitting in a small, crowded office, surrounded by a sea of spreadsheets and endless meetings that left me uninspired. I had a vision of what business could be – dynamic, impactful, and purpose-driven – but I knew that vision could only come to life if I was the one leading it. It was in that moment I decided to take a leap of faith and start my own company.

Starting from scratch as an entrepreneur was daunting. I didn’t have all the answers, but I had a dream and a willingness to learn, adapt, and work harder than I ever had before. Over time, that leap of faith turned into the reality of leading a successful business. But the journey from startup to CEO wasn’t a straight path. It was filled with late nights, hard lessons, and defining moments that shaped me as a leader and as a person.

Why share this story? Because I know that right now, someone else might be sitting at their desk, feeling stuck, dreaming of a better way. My hope is that by sharing my journey – the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the lessons learned – I can inspire future entrepreneurs to take the leap, trust in themselves, and know that success is possible, even when it feels out of reach.

The Early Days: Starting with a Vision

Every business begins with a spark—an idea that refuses to let you sleep at night. For me, that spark came from a deep desire to build something meaningful and impactful. I wasn’t interested in just “doing business.” I wanted to create a company that not only solved real problems but also reflected my values of integrity, collaboration, and purpose.

At the beginning, everything felt like a balancing act. I had to juggle passion with practicality: How do you turn an idea into a tangible business? How do you find the right people to believe in your vision? And let’s not forget the biggest challenge of all—funding.

When I first started, resources were tight, and I quickly realized that starting a business is more about creativity and persistence than having endless financial support. I made every dollar count. I worked from coffee shops, negotiated partnerships with small wins, and bootstrapped wherever I could. This resourcefulness wasn’t just about saving money; it was about learning to make the most of what I had while keeping my eyes set on growth.

Another critical early challenge was building trust—not just with clients but also within myself. As a young entrepreneur, it was easy to second-guess my decisions. I wasn’t born with a CEO manual, so I had to learn through trial and error. There were moments of doubt, but every small win pushed me forward: landing that first client, seeing the first project succeed, or hearing feedback that reassured me I was on the right path.

I also quickly learned the importance of surrounding myself with people who believed in the vision as much as I did. Finding those first team members wasn’t easy; they needed to be adaptable, resilient, and just as committed to the “why” behind the business. Building a team, even when it was small, gave me the energy and support to keep pushing forward.

Looking back, the early days were chaotic, humbling, and full of learning. But they were also some of the most rewarding moments of my journey. It’s in those foundational years that I laid the groundwork for everything my company would become. I realized that success doesn’t come from having the perfect plan—it comes from taking that first step and adjusting as you go.

Lessons Learned from Growing a Business

Growing a business is like navigating uncharted waters—there’s no roadmap, and you often learn through trial and error. Along the way, I discovered some critical lessons that not only shaped my company but also strengthened me as a leader. These lessons weren’t taught in business school; they came from real experiences, challenges, and breakthroughs.

Lesson 1: Embrace Challenges as Opportunities for Growth

In the early days, I used to see challenges as obstacles that held me back. But over time, I realized that every challenge is an opportunity to grow, learn, and improve. One of the first hurdles I faced was managing client expectations while balancing limited resources. I remember one project where everything that could go wrong did go wrong—delays, budget misalignments, and team setbacks. Instead of seeing it as a failure, I treated it as a chance to refine our processes and communication.

From that experience, I learned to approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear. I started asking:

• What can I learn from this?

• How can I use this to get better as a leader?

When you shift your mindset, setbacks become stepping stones.

Lesson 2: Building the Right Team Is Everything

No entrepreneur can succeed alone. One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the power of building a strong team—people who not only have the skills but also share your vision and values.

In the beginning, I was tempted to hire quickly, thinking that more hands would solve every problem. I was wrong. Skills can be taught, but alignment with your company’s purpose cannot. I became intentional about surrounding myself with people who brought energy, ideas, and adaptability to the table.

Hiring the right people doesn’t just mean building a team—it means building a culture. One that thrives on trust, collaboration, and shared goals. I learned to celebrate small wins with my team, empower them to take ownership, and communicate transparently. Success doesn’t happen because of one person; it happens when a team works together, committed to a common purpose.

Lesson 3: Adaptability Is Non-Negotiable

In business, change is constant, and the ability to adapt is what separates the companies that thrive from those that stagnate. There were times when market trends shifted, client needs evolved, or unexpected challenges forced us to rethink our approach. Each of those moments demanded flexibility and a willingness to pivot.

For instance, when one of our key service offerings no longer resonated with the market, I had two choices: hold on to what wasn’t working or evolve. I chose the latter. I engaged with clients, listened to their concerns, and adapted our offerings to align with their needs. This pivot not only saved the business but also opened doors to new opportunities and partnerships.

These lessons—embracing challenges, building the right team, and staying adaptable—became the foundation for my company’s growth. They’re principles I return to time and time again, no matter how much we evolve. As an entrepreneur, you’ll face moments that test you. But if you see every experience as a chance to grow, I promise you’ll come out stronger on the other side.

Overcoming Hurdles: My Defining Moments

Every entrepreneur reaches moments that define their journey—times when the stakes are high, the path ahead is unclear, and every decision feels critical. For me, these defining moments were not only tests of resilience but also opportunities to solidify my values and grow as a leader.

The Financial Roadblock

One of the most challenging hurdles I faced early on was securing funding to take my business to the next level. I remember sitting across from potential investors who didn’t see the vision I was so passionate about. Rejections came one after another, and for a moment, I started to doubt myself.

But here’s what I learned: setbacks like these can force you to get creative. Instead of giving up, I turned my limitations into strengths. I focused on bootstrapping and delivering value in every single project, no matter how small. Each successful client partnership became proof of our worth, and soon enough, the word-of-mouth referrals started to roll in.

That financial roadblock turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It taught me how to operate lean, maximize resources, and find innovative ways to solve problems. More importantly, it gave me a deep appreciation for every milestone we reached because I knew how hard we’d worked to earn it.

Self-Doubt as a Leader

Another defining moment was the first time I had to make a tough leadership decision. My business was growing, and a big project required scaling my team and processes rapidly. I felt the weight of every decision—hiring, delegating, and trusting others to execute at a high level. What if I made the wrong call? What if I wasn’t “ready” to lead at this scale?

I realized then that self-doubt can be paralyzing, but as a leader, you have to trust in yourself and your ability to figure things out. I reminded myself that perfection wasn’t the goal—progress was. I made decisions based on what I knew at the time, listened to my team’s input, and stayed adaptable. Not every decision was perfect, but each one moved us forward.

Over time, I began to see leadership as a journey, not a destination. Confidence grows with experience, and the best leaders are those who learn, adjust, and keep showing up—no matter how uncertain things feel.

Managing Burnout: Learning the Power of Balance

As an ambitious entrepreneur, I initially believed that success came from working harder than anyone else. I was constantly “on”—late nights, endless meetings, and barely any personal time. It didn’t take long for burnout to catch up with me. I was exhausted, losing focus, and beginning to resent the very work I used to love.

That experience was a wake-up call. I realized that to build a sustainable business, I had to take care of myself first. I started prioritizing wellness—whether that meant scheduling time for exercise, unplugging from work after hours, or simply allowing myself space to recharge. I also empowered my team to embrace balance and encouraged a culture where well-being was a priority, not an afterthought.

This shift didn’t just make me healthier—it made me a better leader. I could think more clearly, make better decisions, and inspire my team by showing that success isn’t about grinding yourself into the ground; it’s about showing up as your best self every day.

Defining moments like these are never easy. They test you, challenge you, and often push you to your limits. But they also teach you who you are, what you stand for, and how far you’re willing to go for your dream. Every hurdle I’ve faced has shaped me into the CEO I am today, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.

From Vision to Leadership: Evolving as a CEO

When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I wore every hat imaginable—founder, salesperson, strategist, and sometimes even accountant. In the early stages of building a business, this is often necessary. But as the company grew, I realized that holding onto every role wasn’t sustainable, and more importantly, it was holding the business back.

The transition from founder to CEO was one of the most significant evolutions in my career. It forced me to shift from being in the business to leading the business. This change didn’t happen overnight, and it certainly didn’t come without its challenges, but it taught me invaluable lessons about what it means to lead.

Letting Go and Trusting the Team

In the beginning, my instinct was to micromanage. After all, I had built the company from the ground up, and I felt a deep sense of ownership over every detail. But as the team grew, I learned that leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself—it’s about trusting others to carry the vision forward.

I began to focus on building leaders within my team. I empowered them to take ownership of their roles, make decisions, and bring new ideas to the table. It wasn’t always easy to let go, but I found that when I gave my team the space to grow, they often exceeded my expectations.

Shifting from Tasks to Strategy

One of the hardest yet most rewarding shifts was stepping away from the day-to-day tasks to focus on the bigger picture. I had to learn how to prioritize my time and energy on strategic decisions—setting the vision, scaling operations, and positioning the business for long-term growth.

I started asking myself:

• Where do I want this company to be in five years?

• How can I create systems that allow us to scale sustainably?

• What does my team need to succeed without my constant oversight?

This shift allowed me to lead with clarity and purpose while creating room for innovation.

Leading with Purpose

A defining aspect of my evolution as a CEO has been anchoring everything in purpose. I realized that to inspire my team and align our efforts, our mission had to be more than just numbers or revenue. I wanted our company to stand for something—integrity, collaboration, and empowering others to achieve their best.

By leading with purpose:

• I strengthened our culture and attracted team members who believed in the why behind the work we do.

• I built relationships with clients who valued more than just transactions—they valued trust, honesty, and results.

• I grew as a leader who could inspire, not just manage.

Leadership, I’ve learned, isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up consistently, learning from mistakes, and staying true to your values. As I evolved from founder to CEO, I discovered that great leadership is about creating opportunities for others, fostering a shared vision, and building something that lasts beyond yourself.

The journey from vision to leadership has been transformative. I’m no longer just focused on what the business does; I’m focused on how we can impact lives—our team, our clients, and the community around us. That’s what makes this role not just a job but a privilege.

Advice for Future Entrepreneurs

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this journey, it’s that entrepreneurship is as much about mindset as it is about strategy. It’s about taking risks, learning quickly, and staying resilient when the going gets tough. For those of you dreaming of starting your own business, or even those already in the trenches of building one, here are the lessons and habits I’d share to help guide your path:

1. Believe in Your Vision—Even When Others Don’t

In the early days, it’s easy to feel disheartened when people don’t see what you see. Whether it’s investors rejecting your pitch, customers questioning your offering, or even friends doubting your plans, you’ll encounter skepticism. My advice? Believe in yourself first.

Your conviction will inspire others to follow. Every successful business started as someone’s dream—what made the difference was the unwavering belief that it could be achieved. Back that belief with hard work, persistence, and an openness to learn.

2. Start Before You’re “Ready”

There’s no such thing as the perfect time to start a business. If you wait until you have all the answers, you’ll wait forever. I didn’t have every detail figured out when I started, but I took that first step, and the next, and the next.

Starting small is okay—what matters is taking action. The magic happens when you combine a bold vision with consistent progress, no matter how imperfect it may seem. You’ll learn what you need as you go.

3. Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions

One of the most overlooked pieces of advice is that business is all about people. Whether it’s your team, your clients, or your mentors, relationships are everything. The trust you build with others will become your strongest asset.

• Treat your clients like partners, not numbers. Listen to their needs, add value, and exceed expectations.

• Build your network authentically—mentors, collaborators, and peers can offer support and guidance in ways you can’t anticipate.

• Invest in your team. A motivated, empowered team will carry your business further than you could alone.

4. Focus on Resilience, Not Perfection

There will be failures. There will be setbacks. The businesses that succeed are not the ones that never stumble; they’re the ones that get back up, time and time again.

For every challenge I faced—whether it was losing a client, running into financial struggles, or feeling overwhelmed—I learned something that made me stronger. I embraced resilience as a core value:

• When you fail, fail fast and learn from it.

• When you’re stuck, ask for help or pivot your strategy.

• Keep moving forward, even if it’s just one small step at a time.

5. Prioritize Balance and Wellness

This might sound counterintuitive when you’re in the grind of building a business, but your energy is your most valuable resource. You can’t pour from an empty cup. I had to learn this lesson the hard way, but once I did, it changed everything.

Make time for wellness:

• Find routines that help you recharge (for me, it’s yoga and time away from screens).

• Set boundaries between work and personal life.

• Recognize that rest isn’t a weakness; it’s what enables you to show up stronger.

Leading by example in this area also sets the tone for your team and creates a sustainable work culture.

6. Be Willing to Adapt and Evolve

Markets shift. Challenges arise. Your initial plan may no longer make sense as your business grows. The key is to stay flexible, stay open to feedback, and keep evolving. Some of my best ideas came when I was willing to let go of my original plan and adjust to the opportunities in front of me.

Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the most rewarding journeys you can embark on. Trust in yourself, surround yourself with people who believe in your vision, and remember—every great leader started exactly where you are now.

If there’s one final thought I can leave you with, it’s this: Start today. Your dream is worth pursuing, and the world needs what you have to offer.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey from startup to CEO, I’m reminded of just how far a single idea, fueled by determination, can go. What started as a vision has grown into a reality, not because everything was perfect, but because I believed in the process, embraced the challenges, and surrounded myself with people who shared the same purpose.

Entrepreneurship has taught me that success isn’t a straight path. There will be moments of doubt, hurdles to overcome, and decisions that keep you awake at night. But through it all, the key is to keep showing up—for your vision, for your team, and most importantly, for yourself.

If you’re standing on the edge of that decision, unsure whether to take the leap, let this be your sign: Go for it. Your dreams, no matter how ambitious, are valid. You don’t need to have all the answers right now; you just need the courage to take the first step.

To all the aspiring entrepreneurs and future leaders reading this:

• Trust in your abilities.

• Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.

• Never stop learning and evolving.

I promise you, the journey is worth it.

So, what’s stopping you? Start today. Dream big, act boldly, and watch as you turn your vision into something truly remarkable.