As an entrepreneur, stepping into your building and finding it flooded can be a defining moment. It was for me, not once, but twice. The first time, I was devastated, thinking, “Everything I’ve worked so hard for is ruined.” The second time, however, was different. Despite the chaos, the holiday timing, and my soggy Uggs, I found myself handling the situation with a surprising zest. This shift wasn’t due to luck or coincidence—it was the result of a profound realization: the only thing in life we truly control is our mindset.

My journey into entrepreneurship was deeply inspired by my father, a physician and serial entrepreneur. Observing him navigate his ventures with a cool, calm demeanor made me yearn for the control and autonomy I believed came with owning a business. Yet, when my turn came, the universe had a different curriculum in store for me. From family expansions to pandemics, from natural disasters to staffing crises, every challenge seemed to laugh in the face of control. It wasn’t long before I understood that real control lies not in the ability to prevent the waves but in learning how to surf them.

The essential lesson here is about mastering one’s mindset. This inner work, which my father had subtly mastered, became my greatest challenge and most rewarding journey. Being an entrepreneur means facing a continuous barrage of tests—tests of resilience, adaptability, and leadership. How we respond to these challenges doesn’t just impact us; it sets the tone for our entire team and the clients we serve. Our decisions, rooted in our mindset, shape the quality of our services and the trust we build.

Through the lens of entrepreneurship, I’ve come to appreciate the true essence of a growth mindset. It’s not merely about setting ambitious goals; that’s the straightforward part. The core of a growth mindset lies in maintaining belief in those goals, especially when you’re at your lowest. It’s about recognizing that setbacks are not the end but rather opportunities for learning and growth. This perspective has been my beacon, guiding me through tumultuous times without losing faith in myself or my vision.

For fellow entrepreneurs, particularly those navigating their paths amidst uncertainty, remember this: external circumstances will always be unpredictable, but your mindset is yours to command. Embrace a growth mindset, focus on what you can control, and view challenges as chances to evolve. Your mindset is the foundation upon which resilience is built and from which success springs.

As I reflect on my journey, from the despair of a flooded building to the resilience that followed, I’m reminded of the transformative power of mindset. It’s the difference between being a prisoner of circumstance and becoming a maestro of adaptation. To my fellow female entrepreneurs, I urge you to cultivate a mindset that not only seeks growth but also thrives in the face of adversity. Together, we can navigate the unpredictable waters of entrepreneurship, turning every setback into a stepping stone toward our grandest visions.