Interview Edition: Kristina Ercegović

Kristina Ercegović is a serial entrepreneur from Croatia. She is an energetic woman, running one of the best networking event in Croatia called Business Cafe. She recently started Business Cafe in Serbia as well, and is on her way to expand it throughout Europe.

Describe yourself in 50 words or less.

Serial entrepreneur, writer, business teacher, mom, woman.

What are you currently working on?

A few things, actually. First, a new business model that will enable us to spread Business Cafe in ex-Yugoslavian countries faster. In this scope I am also moderating Business Cafe events in Zagreb and Belgrade on my own, as they are probably the two most important events at this time. Besides that I am also writing a new book.

What led you to this?

5 years ago people were telling me that when they listen to me everything seems simple and that I inspire them to start their own business, that I should systemize all I know and teach people how to start and run their businesses. So I started holding Sam svoj gazed (be your own boss) workshops. After 300 people finished the workshop they started pressuring me for coffe. After some research I found out that 57% of all business deals in our region are done while drinking coffee – thats how Business Cafe came to my mind.

What drives you?

Passion, freedom, joy, simplicity, making the world a better place.

My mission through Business Cafe is to encourage people to live their life to the fullest by starting their own business – or if they already have one by taking it onto the next level.

Describe your typical day from waking up to going to bed.

I start my day at 5am. Do my meditation, planning, mails, reading, as well as some other important matters for business. After that I wake my son up, we prepare and go to school. Then I usually have  meetings, coffes, lunches, do my work as a writer and consultant, I usually take the time for myself to go to gym, meet other entrepreneurial friends, and massages and all this lady stuff. I am divorced so I have plenty of time for myself as my son spends every other afternoon with his father.

In 7 years from now: Where do you see yourself?

I put myself in God’s hands. My goals are to keep my company as well as workshops going and expand Business Cafe into other European countries. And also lose some more weight, find a life partner and do what I do and what I am here for.

Tell us about your best idea and worst execution.

Licencing Business Cafe especially to Serbia – but as they say: you learn from your mistakes.

Tell us about your worst idea and best execution.

Milda – a dating mobile application for divorced entrepreneurs.

What trend would you bet your money on? And how will it influence everyday life?

Spirituality, especially regarding the need for retreats and being offline – slowing down the speed of life essentially.

What seemed to be the most important thing in the world when you were 10 years old?

To find out how to be independant and free as soon as possible – I managed to do that quite well.

Who is your hero and why?

Myself. Because I’ve been through so much trouble and still managed to survived and even became stronger because of it.

What advice would you give first time entrepreneurs?

Just do it. You only live once. There is no re-run. This is it. You will be sorry if you don’t follow your dreams. Live your life, not someone else’s. You will learn and meet everything and everyone on the way.

 

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