We had the good fortune of connecting with Milena Disario and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Milena, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I always wanted to be an entrepreneur, mainly because I love the freedom that comes with being your own boss. Some people thrive with the structure of a 9 to 5 job, but I didn’t, and it was clear to me I needed to find a career where I could be creative. I spent over 3 years prior to becoming an entrepreneur, thinking about what type of job would make me happy. I started side gigs that never went anywhere because I was not 100% committed. I knew I needed to make a change and go all the way, It took a few years for me to make that big decision and I will never look back.
It starts with feeling a burning desire of change, that’s how you realize you’re being guided into the path you were meant to take. Don’t ignore the clear signs, when something doesn’t feel right you’re supposed to fix it. I always tell my friends, it doesn’t matter how ‘small’ your business is, never call it a small business… make a BIG deal – because it is!
Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
After I decided to go full time as a real estate agent, we went into lock-down. I had quit my 9-5 steady job and I was terrified. I had the support of my brokerage and an amazing team leader but the process wasn’t easy. I came into sales not knowing I would get a lot of no’s, I would be ghosted, rejected and not supported by people I trusted. I filled myself with doubt and fear and I thought about quitting many times; I just needed to overcome my own thoughts and my own negativity… I needed to change my mindset. I became aware of everything negative I said about myself and I made a commitment to never speak badly about me, ever. I started rebuilding my self-esteem by focusing on all the things I always knew I could do well and all the things that set me apart from everyone else.
I was able to close several transactions right after the quarantine and I knew It would only get better, I know I’m creative, I have a great sense of humor, an eye for design and I love helping people and making friends, so I started revamping my business by creating an authentic brand and by being very intentional about making a new friend every-time I met a new client. Getting 5 star reviews after every closed transaction, motivates me to keep going, because it’s all about my clients. I read what they say about me to remember how important it is to work for a 5 star review and a happy client at the closing table, not for a commission.
The biggest lesson I learned is that in a relationship-based business, the relationship you have with yourself is key. Now that I’m so comfortable in my own skin, I can truly be myself and have fun showing the world my brand.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A nice week always start with coffee at Carnelian Coffee Company or Loyal Coffee, a nice brunch at Coati, The Wild Goose, Shuga’s, Till or White Pie Pizzeria… they have the best brunch menu! A cold Colorado beer at Pikes Peak Brewing in Monument or Bristol Brewery downtown Colorado Springs. Shopping at the Briargate shops is always fun but I also love the vibe of Manitou Springs with all the eclectic fun shops, for cool clothes Eve’s Revolution in Old Colorado City is my forever favorite! Mani-Pedis at The Beauty Bar and a nice dinner at Prime 25, Flying Horse Steak House, Cowboy Star or Odyssey Gastropub. A slice of Pizza at Parry’s or maybe a laid-back night at The View House.
Besides eating and drinking, I also enjoy watching my favorite local soccer team – the Switchbacks- playing at the Weidner Field Stadium and nearby, The U.S Olympic Museum is one of our newest attractions. A trip to the top of Pikes Peak to have donuts with hot chocolate at 14,000 FT is always everyone’s favorite. Visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo during the day and a night at The Broadmoor Hotel are a must!, a nice massage or a facial at the spa and then dressing up for dinner at Del Lago -with the most beautiful view of the lake and a nice tall glass of wine!… And maybe a morning hike at Garden of the Gods to take beautiful photos. Of course I would take my friend back to the Colorado Springs Airport, because nobody likes the long drive to Denver and flying out of the Springs is the best!, agree?
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m extremely thankful for Gary Martinez, Broker | Owner of the Cutting Edge, Realtors. I came to Gary looking for the opportunity to be a part time agent, and I left that meeting knowing I would never be part-time anything. I quit my 9 to 5 job the next day and I knew that all I needed to do was to JUMP! I committed to being a full time Realtor and that conversation completely changed my life.
Most importantly, I will not be where I’m at right now if it wasn’t for the support of my husband Tommy. Real Estate is really a family business and he has been my biggest support, assistant, my right hand, my advisor, my driver, my handyman… he used to be my shoulder to cry on, now he just says – don’t let it get to you, and I know I’m back in business. He’s always my biggest fan.
Website: www.casadisario.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milenadisariorealtor/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milena-disario-335304129/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milenadisariorealtor
Other: @casa.disario
Image Credits
Sara Dennis Photography