In 2014, while managing a coffee shop, I noticed a common desire among people: they yearned to learn the craft of coffee-making, yet were hindered by financial constraints. This observation sparked an idea—to offer affordable barista training, thus filling a void in the market.
Though daunting, the journey from concept to business fruition proved immensely rewarding. Over the past decade, I’ve encountered numerous challenges and triumphs, each yielding invaluable lessons. Here are the top five insights that have fueled my entrepreneurial journey.
1- Test and validate your idea: You’ll never feel completely ready, but action is key
When the notion of teaching coffee classes first crossed my mind, I faced scepticism from friends who doubted my suitability for the role. Admittedly, my latte art skills were far from flawless, and the fear of customer rejection loomed large. Despite these uncertainties, an inner voice urged me to forge ahead.
In retrospect, I wasn’t fully prepared, nor did I possess top-notch skills. However, I heeded that inner drive and took the plunge, offering my services despite my reservations. To my surprise, some customers were receptive, validating my idea and affirming that action, even when accompanied by uncertainty, is a crucial step toward success.
2- Steer clear of bank loans in the early stages, if possible
When the coffee shop I managed closed its doors, I refused to let go of my burgeoning coffee classes. Determined to find a new venue, I stumbled upon a small, underutilised coffee shop on Harcourt Street. Instead of resorting to a bank loan, which seemed daunting at my young age of 24, I opted for a more creative approach.
Approaching the owner, I proposed renting the space for my classes. To my relief, he agreed, providing the launchpad for my fledgling business. Over the course of six years, I gradually built up my resources and eventually secured my own space and equipment. It was a journey fraught with challenges, but witnessing my idea blossom into reality underscored the transformative power of hard work and dedication.
3- Embrace continuous learning and skill development
While following your passion is paramount, it’s equally crucial to invest in education and skill enhancement. Don’t allow self-proclaimed business gurus to dampen your spirits; not everyone is destined to be the next Mark Zuckerberg, and that’s perfectly fine. Small businesses and innovative ideas play a vital role in enriching society, so embrace their significance.
However, if you aspire to disrupt industries and drive innovation, don’t hesitate to set lofty goals. Just remember, not all accelerator programs and entrepreneurial business models will align with your vision and objectives. Stay true to yourself and your unique ideas, and don’t be swayed by trends that may not suit your business’s needs.
Drawing from personal experience, in 2019, I embarked on a journey to pursue an MSc in Entrepreneurship at Trinity College Dublin. While I emerged with commendable grades and a prestigious degree, the most profound lesson I gleaned wasn’t from textbooks or lectures—it was a revelation of the kind of entrepreneur and individual I didn’t wish to become. It was a challenging and costly realisation, yet it served as a pivotal moment in shaping my identity.
Undeterred by this setback, I remained determined to seek out alternative avenues for growth and development. I pursued further education through skill-building courses and eventually enrolled in a master’s program in Journalism and Medias Communications at Griffith College Dublin. Here, amidst an environment aligned with my values, I found a sense of belonging and purpose—both personally and professionally.
4- Embrace criticism as a catalyst for growth
In the nascent stages of my teaching career, I encountered a barrage of criticism regarding my teaching style. The feedback, often delivered harshly, felt like a blow to my confidence. I even found myself under scrutiny in Brazilian Facebook groups, where my perceived lack of patience became a topic of discussion.
Initially, the critiques stung, but with time, I recognised their value. Despite the discomfort, I acknowledged that much of the feedback stemmed from genuine concern. This realisation prompted me to reassess my approach and adapt accordingly, leading to personal and professional growth.
Even today, criticism remains a constant companion. Yet, I’ve learned to discern between constructive criticism and baseless attacks. While it’s natural to feel defensive in the face of unfair criticism, exercising self-control is key.
Remember, there is life for your business beyond harsh criticism. Use it as a springboard for improvement, rather than dwelling on blame. Keep moving forward with resilience and determination, knowing that every critique, fair or unfair, offers an opportunity for growth.
5- Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success
Failure is an inevitable part of the journey, a truth I’ve learned through countless setbacks and disappointments. One of the most poignant failures I faced was the closure of my coffee shop in 2019, nestled within a British Studies Centre. Despite my excitement and dedication, the unforeseen arrival of the pandemic forced its untimely demise, leaving me reeling from the abrupt loss of my business.
In the aftermath, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, I refused to succumb to despair. Instead, I seized the opportunity to pivot and adapt. Within a short span, I found a new location and launched a boutique barista school—a venture that has flourished ever since.
The experience taught me that setbacks are not a reflection of personal failure, but rather a natural aspect of the entrepreneurial journey. In the face of adversity, resilience is key. So, I urge you to persevere, even when the path ahead seems daunting.
I’ve also created a video sharing insights into the challenges of running a small business, hoping it provides guidance as you navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. And if you’re considering a barista course, don’t hesitate to secure your spot on our website. Your journey awaits—let’s embark on it together.
