Where were you in life when you decided to start your business?

Starting my own business was never in my plans. Having just relocated to Denver, CO, I was excited about a great job offer and the prospect of living back in the United States after 19 years in Germany. My focus initially was on settling my children into their new schools and gearing up to start my new job. However, life threw a curveball just three days before my start date when I learned the company had been bought out, leaving me jobless. That summer, instead of diving into a new corporate role, I dedicated my time to helping my kids improve their English skills, planning to search for a position when they returned to school in the fall.

Little did I know, that summer would change the course of my career. Wearing my European Heels around Denver, I was overwhelmed by the number of compliments I received. This unexpected attention sparked an idea, leading me to reach out to the owner of the European Heels company. I inquired if there was a way for ladies in the US and Canada to purchase these shoes outside of Spain. His response was a turning point: "Cindy, they can get their shoes through you. I want you to become my US/Canada distributor. I've known you for years, and I need your help to build this company."

This conversation was a new beginning. Despite never envisioning myself as an entrepreneur, the opportunity to share something I was passionate about with others was too compelling to pass up. It was the start of an exciting journey, transforming a period of uncertainty into the foundation of European Heels in the US and Canada.

What does success mean to you?

When I'm feeling fulfilled and joyful, that's when I know I've hit the mark of success. Setting goals and having a clear direction in life fuels my passion and determination to work hard and achieve those milestones. I've learned to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and improvement, which are crucial steps on the path to success. Ultimately, success is not just about reaching a destination, but also about the journey and the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with it.

What called you to these shoes?

After being unable to wear heels for over two decades, my discovery of European Heels in 2013 while in Spain was nothing short of a revelation. The moment I slipped them on, the comfort was amazing. The salesman shared the secret behind their comfort: a 1-inch cork platform sole that flexes and supports your feet while also effectively reducing the heel height by an inch. Returning to Denver, the compliments I received every time I wore them were overwhelming. Three weeks later, I realized I had to extend this joy to other ladies.

What are your favorite things about your work lifestyle?

This business offers me incredible freedom to work from anywhere. This flexibility allows me to engage in meaningful conversations with ladies who I wouldn’t have met otherwise. I'm deeply grateful for these interactions, as many of these wonderful women have opened doors to bigger opportunities, playing a pivotal role in the growth of European Heels.

I also get to bring out my creative side by designing new shoe styles, allowing me to continuously innovate and bring fresh, comfortable options to our collection.

Has a mistake ever led you to success?

The mistake of getting into a rundown, uninspected car nearly cost me my life and resulted in two broken legs, along with many months of recovery. It's a story I never imagined I'd share with others, but this harrowing experience transformed me into a much stronger individual. It taught me a powerful lesson: if you truly desire something in your life, it's within your reach. You can achieve anything you set your mind to. So, dream big. This belief has been a guiding principle in my journey, pushing me to overcome obstacles and pursue my passions relentlessly.

What is your personal or professional motto?

Setting high goals is a way of life for me. The belief that you can have and do anything in your life if you truly desire it, is a powerful motivator. It's a lesson I've learned through both triumphs and trials. Dreaming big isn't just about ambition; it's about believing in the possibility of what can be achieved with determination and hard work. Reach for the stars and never settle for less.

Cindy Bauszus is the founder and CEO of European Heels, a US and Canadian retailer of Spanish-made cork-bottom shoes.

Reprints of this issue of Boss Babes Magazine featuring Cindy Bauszus can be ordered here.