We had the good fortune of connecting with Hailey Villegas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hailey, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey at the age of 18 was far from the conventional path that most people my age were taking. The whispers of doubt from peers only fueled my determination to shape my own destiny. My name is Hailey Villegas, and I am an entrepreneur driven by a distinctive thought process that propels me forward against the odds.

My journey began with a childhood desire for extracurricular activities, something that seemed out of reach due to my mother’s demanding work schedule. As a result, the misalignment of timings led me to envision a future where I could not only pursue my passion but also have the flexibility to be present for my family – whenever that family might come into existence. Being a responsible elder sibling, I matured early on, and this sense of responsibility ignited a deep contemplation about the future. I realized that my career choice should accommodate my aspirations while allowing me to fulfill my duties as a parent when the time came.

My dissatisfaction with mundane jobs played a pivotal role in steering me toward entrepreneurship. The routine, lack of excitement, and absence of variety left me yearning for something more. I craved a role where each day brought a new challenge, where innovation and adaptability were paramount. This longing to break away from the norm fueled my desire to be my own boss – to create a venture that not only fulfilled my need for dynamism but also contributed positively to my community.

Reflecting on my past, I can’t help but draw inspiration from a pivotal event that occurred when I was merely two years old. A near-death experience from drowning was miraculously reversed, giving me a second lease on life. The gravity of that moment instilled in me a profound sense of purpose – an understanding that I was destined to make a difference. People often told me that I had survived for a reason, and that reason went beyond just existing. I was meant to have a tangible impact on the lives of others.

The words “brain-dead for the rest of my life” were debunked through sheer determination and the will to overcome. This journey from the brink of loss to reclaiming life resonated deeply within me. It reinforced my belief that I was meant to defy norms, push boundaries, and stand out. I was convinced that my purpose was to catalyze change, and that realization ignited the spark of entrepreneurship.

Amidst my self-discovery and the realization of my unique calling, I ventured into the world of real estate in my hometown of Houston. This industry resonated with my vision of constant movement, transformation, and the power to reshape communities. As a Houston native, I knew that I could channel my energy into not just becoming a real estate agent, but a force for positive change in the community that raised me.

My thought process wasn’t rooted in conformity; it was a blend of childhood dreams, a hunger for excitement, an unyielding sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to creating a life that embraced my responsibilities and aspirations. Starting a business wasn’t just about making a living; it was about aligning my existence with my purpose. And so, my entrepreneurial journey began – a journey driven by conviction, fueled by my past, and directed towards shaping a future that defied expectations.

Today, I stand as a Houston-grown and raised real estate agent, not merely to facilitate property transactions, but to pave the way for transformation, innovation, and community growth. My story stands as a testament to the fact that a different thought process can lead to extraordinary paths, that age is no barrier to chasing your dreams, and that the past can serve as an empowering force to drive future success.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Running a business has definitely been quite the journey – not a smooth ride by any means. Back when I kicked things off at 18, I felt like people didn’t really take me seriously. I’d hear things like, “What does this girl even know? She’s got no shot, in over her head.” To prove them wrong, I put in endless hours, day in and day out. It hit me fast that I shouldn’t let others’ opinions bother me, and I should stick to my own values in running the business.

I figured out it’s okay to partner up with folks who genuinely respect me, and it’s just as okay to turn down those who seem to want to take advantage. Along the way, I formed relationships that, honestly, weren’t really in my plans from the get-go. As I and my business grew, I honed in on two things that truly matter to me: family and sports. When I connect with others, I’m not just looking at it as a transaction – it’s more personal. I’m all about forging lasting connections that nobody can break. And it’s important to me that my community understands I genuinely care about their well-being. I don’t want anyone else to end up in situations I wouldn’t want to be in myself.

My mission boils down to providing safety, security, honesty, and crystal-clear communication. “Never give up” isn’t just a phrase for me – it’s a way of life. If you throw in the towel, you’re not giving yourself a shot at making it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Imagine this: I’ve got a friend coming over to Houston for a week – and let me tell you, Houston’s like a playground for all your dreams. We’ve got a whole week lined up with awesome stuff to do, so let’s dive in.

First things first, I’m a total foodie, and if you’re my friend, I’m guessing you are too. We’re gonna hit up all the amazing food joints in Houston – places like Trill Burgers, La Brisa’s, Texas Roadhouse, and those awesome local taco trucks that pack a punch. But wait, there’s more! We’re not stopping at just food. We’re gonna explore some of the coolest spots in Houston, like the post-perfect location where you can soak in the city’s vibes.

And since I’m a golf enthusiast, why not swing some clubs and shed some stress? But that’s not all the action we’ve got planned. We’re throwing a cookout right at my place, inviting family and friends over for some good times.

As if that’s not enough, there’s always some sports action happening here – whether it’s catching a Texans game, cheering for the Astros, or getting behind the Houston Dynamo. And when the night rolls around, if you’re up for it, we’ll just kick back, maybe catch a chill vibe, and catch the sunrise from a rooftop. Sounds like a week full of memories, right? Let’s do this!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In the tapestry of life, there are often unsung heroes who play pivotal roles, quietly shaping the narratives of those they touch. While your mother is undoubtedly a beacon of strength and support in your story, there is another character who also deserves recognition for their influence: you.

Your resilience and determination in the face of challenges have undoubtedly been buoyed by your mother’s unwavering support. Her sacrifices and triumphs laid the foundation for your own growth and achievements. As you recount her journey from being a teenage mother to becoming a senior community manager, her story becomes intertwined with your own, shaping your perspective on the world and your approach to life’s challenges.

Your mother’s resilience and tenacity are not only a testament to her character but also to the indomitable human spirit. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she managed to overcome them with grace and determination, never losing sight of her dreams. Her journey from dropping out of school to pursuing her GED and continuing with college stands as a testament to her commitment to self-improvement and personal growth. Her various jobs along the way were not just a means to an end, but stepping stones that shaped her into the capable and empathetic senior community manager she is today.

Her recent decision to return to college to pursue her dream of becoming a trauma nurse demonstrates a deep-seated desire for meaningful contribution. This aspiration speaks volumes about her capacity for compassion and her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others during their most vulnerable moments.

Amidst her own transformations and aspirations, your mother’s support for your business endeavors shines brightly. Her unwavering belief in you, her encouragement, and the strength she has shown are the cornerstones that have allowed your entrepreneurial spirit to flourish. Her belief in your potential mirrors her own journey of growth, and together, you forge ahead, each deriving strength from the other.

Your story, alongside your mother’s, serves as an inspiration to all those who encounter it. It is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child. While your mother may be the guiding star in this narrative, you are the constellation of strength and resilience that has emerged from her influence. Your collective journey exemplifies the extraordinary heights that can be reached when love, determination, and support intersect.

As your mother embarks on her journey towards becoming a trauma nurse and you continue to flourish in your business pursuits, your stories will continue to intertwine and inspire those around you. And in doing so, you’ll both continue to deserve not just a little credit and recognition, but the admiration and respect that come from forging paths of significance and making a difference in the lives of others.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haileysellshtown/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Haileysellshtown/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHuI3B9Iqq13BwaLBEN6UbQ

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haileynvillegas

Image Credits
Hailey Villegas

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