Starting a business is an exhilarating yet daunting journey. When Dheep Vora first embarked on the path of entrepreneurship with HACHI, she was filled with excitement but quickly realized the overwhelming challenges that lay ahead. Like many entrepreneurs, Dheep had a deep passion for her idea but lacked a clear roadmap to guide her. The thrill of creating something from scratch soon collided with the reality of running a business—navigating hiring mistakes, grappling with moments of self-doubt, and facing the constant pressure to make the right decisions. However, each experience taught her invaluable lessons that became the cornerstone of HACHI’s growth and resilience. Here are five hard-earned tips that Dheep wishes she had known earlier, which can help any small business owner or early-stage entrepreneur navigate their own unique journey.
1. Embrace Mistakes
Mistakes are inevitable in business, especially when starting out. Early in her journey, Dheep made several decisions that didn’t work out as planned. Instead of dwelling on these setbacks, she learned over time to view them as opportunities for growth. Each mistake was a lesson in disguise, teaching her what to look for in the right team members when it came to hiring, the right partners for collaborations, the right strategies for procurement, and more. These experiences helped her understand the importance of ethical practices and solid policies, ensuring that her business not only thrived but also operated with integrity.
Actionable Advice: When mistakes happen—and they will—don’t waste time on regrets. Instead, take a step back, analyze what went wrong, and use that insight to improve. Create a culture where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures. This mindset shift will not only help your business grow but also foster an environment where innovation can thrive.
2. Network, Network, Network
In the early days of HACHI, Dheep underestimated the power of networking. She was so focused on internal operations that she neglected building relationships outside of her immediate circle, which was a mistake. Networking isn’t just about making connections; it’s about opening doors to opportunities that might never have been considered. Through networking, Dheep eventually found mentors, partners and resources that were instrumental in HACHI’s growth.
Actionable Advice: Make networking a priority. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and reach out to other entrepreneurs. Networking isn’t just about what others can do for you—it’s about mutual growth and support. The connections you build can provide valuable advice, partnerships, and even new business opportunities.
3. Lead by Doing
Leadership is more than just giving orders; it’s about setting an example. In the early stages of HACHI, Dheep realized that the most effective way to inspire her team was to show them what hard work and dedication looked like. When they saw her rolling up her sleeves and diving into the nitty-gritty of the business, it motivated them to do the same. Leading by example creates a culture of accountability and excellence.
Actionable Advice: Be the first to take action. Whether it’s staying late to finish a project or stepping in to help with a difficult task, your actions speak louder than words. Your team, however small or large, will follow your lead, so set the standard you want them to uphold.
4. Never Settle
One of the most important lessons Dheep learned was the value of holding out for the right opportunities. Whether it was in choosing partners, hiring employees, or selecting clients, she found that settling for less almost always led to complications down the line. It’s better to wait for the right opportunity than to rush into decisions that don’t align with your values or long-term goals.
Actionable Advice: Be patient and selective in your decision-making. Whether it’s hiring, partnerships, or business deals, ensure that they align with your vision and values. Compromising for short-term gains can lead to long-term challenges. Trust your instincts and believe that the right opportunities will come along.
5. Believe in Yourself
Self-belief is the cornerstone of success. There were many times when Dheep questioned whether she had what it took to build HACHI into a successful brand. But each time, she reminded herself of why she started and what she was capable of achieving. Believing in oneself isn’t just about confidence; it’s about having the resilience to keep going even when things get tough.
Actionable Advice: Cultivate a strong sense of self-belief. Surround yourself with positive influences, remind yourself of your achievements, and stay focused on your goals. When doubt creeps in, remember that every successful entrepreneur started with uncertainty. Your belief in yourself will be your guiding force through the highs and lows of your journey.
Building a business was never going to be easy, but with the right mindset and strategies, it’s possible to turn challenges into opportunities. The lessons Dheep has shared are the result of her own experiences in growing HACHI from a small startup to a brand that’s expanding across the country. By embracing mistakes, prioritizing networking, leading by example, never settling, and believing in yourself, you can navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and build a successful, sustainable business.
