Emprendiendo Ando: How Family Chaos is the Secret to Entrepreneurial Success in Mexico’s Multigenerational Homes

Did you know that over 30% of households in Mexico are multigenerational (as found in the National Housing Survey (ENVI) 2020 conducted by INEGI), where multiple generations live together under one roof? This setup is?a cultural norm but also a hidden engine for entrepreneurial growth in Mexico. Recent data shows that there are over 4 million registered entrepreneurs in Mexico, with many more operating informally. This in addition to the daily hustle of living in a house full of family means learning essential business skills from the breakfast table to the dinner one. Forget MBA programs, multigenerational living teaches resilience, adaptability, and tenacity in ways only family can.

So, how does this blend of personalities and generations help shape some of Mexico’s most successful entrepreneurs? Let’s dive into the wild world of intergenerational wisdom, and how it can make or break your next big venture.

Homemade Entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurs who grow up in multigenerational homes often internalize values like resilience, patience, and responsibility. These day-to-day interactions across different age groups create a nurturing ground for adaptive thinking and emotional intelligence, traits that are crucial when navigating the uncertain waters of entrepreneurship. Psychological studies suggest that entrepreneurs who emphasize family connections often exhibit higher levels of perseverance and collaboration, essential when dealing with the constant problem-solving required to sustain and grow a business (Carter & Ram, 2003; Gómez et al., 2021).

Living with parents, grandparents, and even extended family members teaches entrepreneurs to manage conflict, negotiation, and resource allocation, skills that directly transfer to business settings. In this sense, home life mirrors the real-life challenges that entrepreneurs face, from juggling responsibilities to managing people, and finding innovative solutions to daily problems.

Fostering Entrepreneurial Grit

Beyond virtues, multigenerational homes foster an environment of strong will and tenacity, key traits for success in business. These households often face financial and emotional struggles that push individuals to develop grit (Duckworth et al., 2007). The collective responsibility that comes from taking care of multiple generations forces individuals to be resourceful and tenacious in their pursuit of success, as their achievements impact not only themselves but their families as well.

Moreover, having the support of older generations provides a safety net of wisdom and experience, offering entrepreneurs the mental resilience needed to survive in a highly competitive world. This unique blend of support and pressure drives a stronger sense of purpose and legacy, pushing entrepreneurs to create businesses that can provide long-term security for their families.

Strength Through Challenge?

The combination of multigenerational values and entrepreneurial ambition presents a powerful formula for success. While challenges are inevitable, the perseverance developed through family-oriented problem solving equips entrepreneurs to tackle business obstacles head-on. As we’ve explored in previous episodes of Emprendiendo Ando, Mexico's entrepreneurs are not just building businesses; they are crafting legacies for future generations.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the question is no longer just about what business they want to build but also why they are doing it. Those who ground their ventures in strong family values and multigenerational support are likely to find the drive and resilience to succeed in the ever-changing world of business.

For future entrepreneurs, consider this: What values have you inherited from your family that you can bring into your entrepreneurial journey? The more connected you are to your roots, the stronger your foundation will be as you grow and scale your ventures. Family and business, it turns out, are deeply intertwined, and those who embrace this connection will be the ones shaping Mexico's economic future.