Patricia López on Transformative Decisions in Business and Life
Patricia López is the CEO & Founder of MYHIXEL, a pioneering brand focused on men's sexual health. With a rich professional background spanning diverse sectors, Patricia has accumulated valuable experience in areas such as tourism and the ever-evolving field of sexual wellness. Her journey through these industries has provided her with a unique perspective, always driven by a passion for innovation.
Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself and your journey as a leader in your industry?
I embarked on this journey when I identified a gap in the market, both for men and women in the sexual health industry, and decided to pursue it. Over the years, I have cultivated expertise by navigating various challenges and collaborating with individuals from diverse sectors. Since the foundation of MYHIXEL, I have dedicated substantial effort to emphasize the importance of male sexual health and stimulate conversations about it. This has been all the more challenging as a woman in the field. I have developed expertise through years of facing numerous challenges. Currently, I provide mentorship to new entrepreneurs, sharing the knowledge and experience I have gained over the years.
What specific experiences or decisions in your journey do you believe have shaped your approach to business and leadership?
There are key principles that have helped me to keep growing as MYHIXEL’s CEO. One of them is the commitment to embrace innovative ideas and not only that but also pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology. Additionally, expanding into international markets, rather than limiting ourselves to those most comfortable for our company, and adapting both our product and communication to cater to them has been a significant decision. Moreover, keeping in touch with the contacts we've established is crucial for maintaining and strengthening our network over time.
Can you share a story of a pivotal moment in your career that led to a significant transformation in your business or personal life?
After studying tourism and working for ten years in this sector, I made the bold decision to take a radical turn in my professional path and become the Marketing Manager for a company specialized in erotic toys. This choice gave me the chance to explore an entirely new work experience. It was during this period that I identified a crucial market opportunity, which later materialized into the creation of MYHIXEL. Although, the most significant moment of my career was when I founded MYHIXEL. After working for over 14 years for others, taking the helm of my own company was a radical shift in my professional journey.
What factors did you consider when making that critical decision, and how did you weigh the potential risks and rewards?
The risks were significant, but that experience laid the foundation for the development and creation of MYHIXEL as an international company, identifying a clear gap in the international market. Although it posed a risk, I would do it again without hesitation. I recognized the untapped potential in the sector and the numerous opportunities it presented for men's sexual health. Analyzing the risks involved, I acknowledged the challenges of entering a niche market, but I was determined to push the boundaries and create something impactful. The rewards, in terms of societal impact and the potential to fill a significant gap in the market, outweighed the potential risks.
What challenges did you face during this transformative period, and how did you overcome them?
Every challenge brings an opportunity. I believe that one of the most important qualities a female entrepreneur must possess is perseverance. In moments when you feel overwhelmed, it's okay to take a break and reflect on your approach. Hence, consistency and determination are crucial as they assist you in facing obstacles. As a woman, I have faced several challenges due to my gender. One of them has been leading MYHIXEL in a male-dominated field where many taboos still exist. Constantly, we have to keep gaining credibility and trust in our products, which sometimes feels like an endless battle. Moreover, I have ventured into the world of technology, another sector dominated by men. I have been able to participate in many platforms that highlight women working in this field, such as 'Girls in Tech.' So, I highly recommend women entrepreneurs embrace technology. Every challenge strengthens my resolve and underscores the significance of what we're achieving at MYHIXEL.
Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self at that time, or to entrepreneurs and business leaders who might find themselves in a similar situation?
Reflecting on my journey, if I could go back and advise my younger self or offer insights to fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges, I would emphasize the importance of resilience and belief in your vision. Learn from setbacks, adapt, and stay true to your mission. Surround yourself with a diverse and supportive network and team, seek mentors, and never underestimate the power of continuous learning.
How has that pivotal moment influenced the way you make decisions today, and what lasting impact has it had on your business?
Looking back, when evaluating the possibilities and profitability, the key advice I would give is to meticulously assess the market landscape and consumer needs. We realized the importance of balancing innovation with market demand. I'd emphasize the significance of destigmatizing discussions about male sexual well-being. Our efforts to encourage open dialogue, break taboos, and provide educational resources have not only benefited our brand but have also played a role in advancing the conversation around men's sexual health on a larger scale.
In your opinion, how important is it for entrepreneurs and business leaders to have these transformative moments, and how can they best prepare for and learn from them?
As I mentioned before, every challenge brings an opportunity. Transformative moments define who we are and how we grow. These moments shape the resilience and innovation necessary for success in the dynamic world of business.
