Welcome to this week’s edition of Wednesday Wisdom, where we spotlight leaders who share their valuable experiences and advice. This week, we’re excited to introduce Paula Lucero, an entrepreneur from Chile and the owner of Kailani. Paula’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions. Her story takes us through significant life changes, the courage to fast-track her dreams, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Not Everything Goes as Planned, and That’s Okay
When Paula Lucero, an entrepreneur from Chile and the owner of Kailani, reflects on her journey, her story is a testament to resilience and the importance of adaptability in pursuing one’s dreams.
More than 15 years ago, Paula was traveling along picturesque coastlines, where she encountered charming beach-themed shops by the water. These sights ignited a dream in her heart. Back then, she imagined herself running such a store, but as a retirement project—a distant goal for her future self.
However, life had different plans. After facing a significant turning point in her life, Paula decided to fast-track her dream. This pivotal moment became the spark to unite her three great passions: her love for the sea, her adventurous spirit as a traveler, and her talent for curating beautiful items. Today, Kailani is not just a shop; it’s a thriving business that brings exquisite beach-inspired products to life, sourced directly from Bali’s vibrant markets and artisans.
Turning Dreams into Reality
Starting Kailani wasn’t an easy journey. Paula spent countless hours traveling to Bali, building relationships with local artisans, and selecting unique pieces that reflect the beauty and tranquility of coastal life. Every product in her shop tells a story, embodying the essence of her travels and her love for the ocean. Through meticulous curation, Kailani has become a destination for those who want to bring a touch of beachside serenity into their lives.
Paula’s vision extends beyond selling products. For her, Kailani is about creating connections—between the artisans who pour their creativity into each piece and the customers who find joy in owning them. This focus on meaningful relationships has been a cornerstone of her business.
Lessons Along the Way
Paula’s entrepreneurial journey wasn’t without its challenges. She’s candid about the realities of starting a business and how things often don’t go as planned. One of her most profound learnings has been the importance of listening: “It’s important to listen to others and remain open to feedback,” she shares. According to Paula, flexibility is key, and sometimes, the unexpected “Plan B” turns out to be even better than the original plan.
This mindset has helped her navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, turning obstacles into opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind and staying patient during the journey.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For anyone dreaming of launching their own venture, Paula’s story offers invaluable insights:
Be Ready for the Unexpected: Not everything will go as planned, but sometimes the alternative can be even more rewarding.
Stay Open to Feedback: Listening to others can provide new perspectives and help refine your vision.
Foster Relationships: Building strong connections with suppliers and customers is key to creating a sustainable business.
Embrace Change: Life’s twists and turns can lead to exciting new possibilities if you remain adaptable.
Paula’s journey with Kailani reminds us that building a dream is as much about resilience and adaptability as it is about passion and hard work. Her story is an inspiration for all those looking to turn life’s challenges into stepping stones toward success. Through Kailani, Paula has not only created a business but also a bridge between her love for travel and her desire to share the beauty of the world with others.