We recently connected with Adelaida Diaz-Roa and have shared our conversation below.
Adelaida, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?
Starting over, I would place a greater emphasis on networking from the very beginning. It’s not just about expanding your contacts—it’s about embracing the principle of “who not how.” This means focusing on who can help you achieve your goals rather than figuring out how to do everything yourself. This shift in mindset is about leveraging relationships to propel your business forward, a lesson I learned through connecting with mentors and peers who provided invaluable advice and opened doors that I couldn’t have accessed alone.
Additionally, delegation has been a critical lesson. Initially, I tried to handle too many aspects of my businesses myself, leading to burnout. I’ve realized the importance of trusting my team and outsourcing tasks that others can perform better or more efficiently. This approach allows me to focus on areas where I can add the most value and ensures the sustainability of my energy and creativity.
These changes—leveraging my network for access and support, and delegating tasks to avoid burnout—would be central to any new venture, ensuring a healthier approach to business and personal life.
Adelaida, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Adelaida Diaz-Roa, currently on my seventh venture with two successful exits and three sabbaticals behind me. After these experiences, I’ve realized my dream of living in Colombia, where I’m working to make a difference in two specific areas: real estate investing and event planning.
Robin House (RH) simplifies real estate investing, making it accessible to more people. Using blockchain technology, we allow anyone to invest in property with as little as $100. This initiative is about opening up real estate to those who traditionally haven’t had access, democratizing investment and helping more people build wealth.
Onde, my latest venture, connects space owners with event planners, production houses, and service providers. It transforms underutilized spaces into venues for memorable events, supporting local economies and promoting cultural engagement. Onde is about creating opportunities and enabling experiences that bring people together.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Managing a team effectively and maintaining high morale are crucial for the success of any venture. Here are some strategies I’ve found particularly effective:
Clear Communication: Keep lines of communication open and transparent. Regular updates, feedback sessions, and open-door policies can help foster trust and prevent misunderstandings.
Recognize and Reward: Acknowledge individual and team achievements regularly. Recognition can come in many forms, from verbal praise in meetings to formal awards or bonuses. This not only boosts morale but also encourages others to excel.
Empower Your Team: Give team members autonomy in their roles. Empowering individuals to make decisions and take ownership of their work can lead to increased job satisfaction and a sense of contribution.
Provide Growth Opportunities: Invest in the professional development of your team. Training programs, workshops, and opportunities for advancement show that you value your team’s growth and see a future for them within the company.
Foster a Supportive Culture: Encourage a team-oriented environment that supports risk-taking and innovation. Celebrate creative solutions and provide a safe space for sharing ideas without fear of criticism.
Focus on Well-being: Recognize the importance of work-life balance. Encourage time off, provide support for mental health, and create a workplace where people’s well-being is a priority.
Lead by Example: The attitude and behavior of a leader set the tone for the entire team. Demonstrate the values, work ethic, and attitudes you hope to see in your team members.
By integrating these principles, you can build a motivated, engaged, and high-performing team that feels valued and empowered to contribute to the company’s goals.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I once believed that constant hard work and long hours were essential for business success. However, I learned that this approach was unsustainable and led to burnout, affecting both my health and the quality of my work. Reducing work hours and making the time to prioritize health allowed me to focus better and think more strategically. This shift not only improved my well-being but also enhanced the productivity and creativity of my entire team, teaching us that working smarter, not harder, is the key to sustainable success.
Contact Info:
- Website: robinhouse.co onde-vamos.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adelaida_sofia/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelaidadiazroa/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Adelaida_Sofia
Image Credits
Diego Berrocal