Meet Éva Goicochea, the founder, CEO, and creative director of Maude, a sexual wellness company focused on inclusivity and simplicity. She’s one of only a few Latinas in consumer goods who have raised over $10 million in venture capital, so obviously we had to tap her for some career tips. Below, she shares her words of wisdom for what to do if you fail, want a confidence boost, or have to give difficult feedback.
Advice for what to do when you…
Feel stuck…
You cannot get back time, so consider what you'd want to spend your life doing without getting paid and use that to find what's next.
Want to pitch an idea…
Always be prepared. Thoroughly do your research and make sure that you understand every piece: the market, opportunity, competition, and the reasons it will or won't succeed.
Are asked your biggest weakness…
Weaknesses, in some contexts, are areas to learn, but they can also be positioned as positives. Perhaps they allow your colleagues’ strengths to shine.
Fail…
Failures feel like failures in the moment, but with hindsight, you’ll see them as the steps to have gotten you where you are.
Feel stressed out…
Pause, take a deep breath, and consider what is within your control and what can be changed in the immediate.
Want a confidence boost…
Pretend your inner dialogue is always directed at your child self. I guarantee you'll be kinder, gentler, and a bigger cheerleader for yourself.
Have to give difficult feedback…
Recognize that if the intention is considered and the outcome is necessary, then it is required. Just be thoughtful with your words.
Need to prep for an important meeting…
Bake the time into your schedule in advance — in whatever time frame works best for you.
Get your paycheck...
Put 10–20% away in savings and investments.
Answers are edited and condensed for clarity.
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