Hard Won Wisdom by Women, for Women to Accelerate in Entrepreneurship

From the pursuit for gender parity to the systemic barriers and biases still facing women today, the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8 March, challenges us to “Accelerate Action for women everywhere.” This is the second piece in this week's series exploring how women entrepreneurs in EO and beyond are teaming up to accelerate growth, exercise leadership, and broaden their connections through the power of community. 

The entrepreneurial journey is often filled with challenges, uncertainties, and leaps of faith. For women aspiring to step into this potentially high-risk, high-reward world of business ownership, the voices of experienced women entrepreneurs offer a guiding light powered by experience. Quite simply put: They have been there, done that!

We asked some of the boss women across EO’s community to share one powerful takeaway message that they would want to impress upon those who are dreaming of building a business, or who may be just getting started on their journey of ownership. 

From embracing mentorship to trusting their instincts, their collective wisdom shines a spotlight on five key attitudes and actions that foster success.  

1. Take Action—Even When the Path is Unclear

One recurring piece of earned wisdom we heard is to simply start. Waiting for the perfect moment or all the answers can hold you back. Instead, as Tiffany Slowinski of EO New Jersey puts it:  "Just start! You don’t need all the answers before you begin. Taking that first step, even with uncertainty, is crucial—you’ll find clarity along the way. Progress happens when you're on the path, so don’t let hesitation hold you back."

Dr. Stephanie Krumholz of EO Zurich recounted her own story as a reminder that opportunities can come from unexpected places: "I launched my first company in an elevator—literally. After being laid off from a biotech startup, my former boss introduced me to a colleague in the elevator. That brief encounter led to my first consulting job, emphasizing the importance of always being ready to present yourself."

Momentum matters. By taking the first step, you position yourself to recognize and seize opportunities as they arise.

2. Trust Your Instincts and Be Fearless

Many of the entrepreneurs we heard from stressed the importance of listening to your inner voice and silencing doubts—whether they come from within or from others.  

Maria Gergova-Bengtsson of EO’s South East Europe is the successful owner of United Partners, one of the leading PR agencies in Bulgaria. She encourages young women to believe in themselves, even in the face of skepticism: "There are going to be people who doubt you or who think you’re 'too young' or 'too inexperienced.' Tune that out. If you believe in what you’re doing and you’re willing to work hard, keep pushing forward. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t let anyone talk you out of your dreams."

Jasmine Daya of EO Toronto adds a call to focus on what truly matters: "Pursue your passion while ignoring what everyone is saying to you or about you. Nobody knows you better than you know yourself. Forget about them." 

By trusting your instincts and staying true to your vision, you can navigate the noise and channel your energy into what truly drives you forward.  

3. Build Resilience and Embrace Bold Risks

Resilience is a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success, and many women entrepreneurs advise investing in the skills and mindset to weather challenges.  

Milena Radakovic of EO Calgary highlights the importance of adaptability: "Invest in your skills, especially those that build resilience and adaptability. By developing a diverse skill set and seeking mentorship early, young women can overcome barriers and create strong foundations for success."  

Taking risks is equally critical. Nicole Loeb of EO Boston sums it up with powerful imagery: "Take bold risks. If there’s no chair at the table for you, bring a folding chair." 

This advice is a reminder that creating your own opportunities often means stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.  

4. Recruit Support and Embrace Community  

Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be a solo journey. For many successful women entrepreneurs, the support of mentors and a strong community made all the difference.  

Gergova-Bengtsson emphasizes the importance of asking for help: "There’s this myth that entrepreneurs have to do it all on their own, but that’s just not true. Some of the best decisions I've made came from conversations with mentors or friends who shared experience driving me to solutions I couldn’t see myself." 

Similarly, Nicola Nel of EO Cape Town highlights the transformative power of finding your tribe: "Join EO’s Accelerator program or an EO chapter as soon as you can! Your business, your family, and your personal life will feel the EO magic.”

These reflections underscore a vital truth: Finding a supportive network is essential. Community offers not only practical advice but also encouragement, camaraderie, and the sense that you’re not alone in the challenges you face. 

5. Redefine What’s Possible and Keep Dreaming

Several entrepreneurs shared reflections on breaking through barriers and rewriting narratives about what’s achievable.  

Hazel Ortega of EO LAC Bridge Chapter inspires with her personal story: "Embrace synchronicity—unexpected opportunities can be just as important as the work you put in. Always remember that where you come from doesn’t determine where you can go. I went from being a high school dropout to a multimillionaire, and now I’m committed to inspiring others to live the life of their dreams."  

Sarah Moody of EO San Francisco reminds us that it’s never too late to start anew: "You are not too old, and it is not too late. In 2020, I started something ‘new’ in my 50s—yes, during COVID! I had the courage to keep reinventing myself. The self-doubt was loud, but my calling was louder."

These stories illustrate that success doesn’t come from a straight path—it’s built on resilience, reinvention, and the courage to chase your dreams at any stage of life.  

The Collective Wisdom of Women Entrepreneurs

The journey to entrepreneurship is as diverse as the women who embark on it. Yet, a common thread runs through their advice: the importance of community, confidence, and action.  

To the next generation of women entrepreneurs, these trailblazers say: Seek mentorship, take bold steps, trust yourself, and never stop dreaming. The path may not always be easy, but with the right support and determination, the possibilities are endless.

Check out the first post in this week’s series for International Women’s Day: International Women’s Day: Accelerating Investment in Women-Owned Businesses.