I recently had a chance to be featured on an episode of the podcast series What’s On Your Mind? and the conversation illuminated how much has transpired since I started Care On the Way in 2018. As I mentioned in the podcast, I went through a catastrophic car accident (more on that below) that caused me to reevaluate my priorities. I also got married and had a baby! All of this has shaped me into a stronger and more emboldened entrepreneur.
And now that Thanksgiving is here, it reminds us to reflect on what matters in life and practice gratitude. I want to share a few takeaways that I have learned from the past few years and say thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way. I look forward to what we all accomplish in the next few years:
Know Your Story and Your Why: As an entrepreneur, people will constantly ask about the motivation to launch the business, app, brand or whatever it is you are creating. It’s important to understand your own personal story about what made you decide to pursue your business. Your story provides the solid footing you will need as you navigate the entrepreneurship process. There will be moments where you doubt yourself and knowing your story will help you stay grounded and focused.
Pause and Reevaluate: A couple of years ago, I went through a horrific car accident. The healing process from this ordeal is ongoing, but the standard cliché is true – moments like that will make you evaluate your life. Among other things, I realized how committed I am to Care On the Way and how important launching this business is to me. I’m certainly not saying you need to have something extreme happen to you to make you evaluate, but I am saying that you should take time and evaluate as on ongoing practice to make sure you are on the right path.
Rely On Your Support System: Having the right people around you is critical when you are launching a business. There are so many highs and lows and the right group of people (mentors, colleagues, friends, partners) make the difference in your success. They also can provide great insight and inspiration. I would not be here without my supportive circle, and I encourage you to continue to strengthen your relationships with your circle – its invaluable.
Be Flexible and Tenacious: I’ve had to deal with several delays in creating this app. It can be a frustrating process when you face setbacks. But, over time, I realize the trial and error of app development has taught me so much and I know as I move forward, I can leverage everything I’ve learned so far. You have to remain flexible and be tenacious in this process because setbacks are inventible and frequent.
Ask For Help: Entrepreneurship is new for me. I had an idea and my why for creating Care On the Way. But learning app development is an ongoing process. You have to be comfortable asking for help and seeking resources. The good part is most people like to help and now we have countless resources to find online too. Figure out what you don’t know and start asking questions from those who can help.
If you want to hear more, I encourage you to check out the podcast. It was a pleasure to have an opportunity to share my journey so far. And, again, I want to thank all of those who have helped along the way.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Oscar Caicedo
Founder & CEO
Care On the Way