Hilary DeCesare’s story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others. From a young age, Hilary knew she wanted to create adventure and share her knowledge with others. Growing up, she would invite her cousins to a schoolroom she built out of a fort, complete with a maze to reach their seats. Before they could leave, they had to share what they loved about the lesson. This early activity unknowingly incorporated neuroscience, setting the expectation that learning could be fun and exciting. Today, Hilary continues to use this approach in her events, helping women relaunch their personal and professional lives.
Hilary’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at the tender age of six. She started her first store out of her house, gathering small items and pricing them for sale. Her mother’s clogs from Holland, for instance, were sold for 25 cents. When her mom found out that Hilary had sold family items, she had to return all the items sold and return the money to the neighborhood kids who had purchased these items. Although this venture didn’t work, it set the foundation for great success in the future.
The price tag, written in her childhood handwriting, still serves as a reminder of her early business ventures.
Throughout her life, Hilary faced numerous challenges that shaped her into the resilient entrepreneur she is today. She experienced a near-death encounter, divorce, cancer, remarriage, and even a Ponzi scheme involving a board member. Despite these hardships, she embraced each challenge as a part of her journey, finding silver linings in every situation. Recognizing that many others face similar obstacles, Hilary developed the concept of ReLaunch. This concept focuses on personal and professional growth, addressing the various seasons women go through and helping them build resilience.
ReLaunch has grown into a global movement, with international events, courses, and shows that promote a positive approach to overcoming life’s challenges. Hilary’s core values of connection, growth, and joy of life guide her in all her endeavors. She created the 3HQ™ concept, which stands for Head, Heart, and Highest Self, to ensure her decisions align with her personal and business values. When these three elements are in harmony, Hilary knows she is on the right path.
Hilary’s leadership style fosters a positive culture and inclusivity within her team. Every Monday, they hold a team call to discuss their weekly goals and share “humble brags” about their achievements. This practice allows team members to celebrate their successes and receive recognition from their peers.
As a female entrepreneur in Silicon Valley’s male-dominated tech industry, Hilary faced significant challenges. Working at Oracle, she struggled to maintain her identity in a competitive environment. A pivotal moment came when her mother asked, “Where did Hilary go?” This question led her to explore the balance between masculine and feminine energy, realizing that true power comes from embracing both.
To stay focused and motivated during difficult times, Hilary relies on a powerful tool she created called Tune In™. This tool, developed over 23 years of coaching, helps individuals navigate any situation and achieve their goals. By tuning in to her intentions throughout the day, Hilary maintains a balanced work-life dynamic, ensuring she is present with her family and dedicated to her business.
Hilary defines success as creating a business that operates independently of her, empowering her team to pursue shared goals and visions. Her long-term goal is to help women ReLaunch into their remarkable selves, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and the world.
To Womenpreneur readers and aspiring girls and women, Hilary offers this message: “Being fearful won’t get you anywhere, being fearless will spark your heart and ignite your life.”
Hilary DeCesare’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and the desire to make a difference. Her experiences, challenges, and successes continue to inspire women to dream big, lead with compassion, and create a lasting impact in their lives and beyond.
