Hardy Vibert: Staying Motivated Through Setbacks: Lessons from Hollywood Nightlife and Six Years As A Real Estate Investor

July 11, 2025

Over a decade grinding in Hollywood nightlife with PHH Hospitality and six years building wealth through Vibe Investment has shown me one thing: setbacks are just part of the hustle. From events that flopped to real estate deals that didn’t close, I’ve learned to keep the vibe alive no matter what. Whether you’re running a nightlife empire, flipping properties, or chasing your own dream, here’s how to stay motivated through setbacks, straight from the LA scene to you.

Turn Setbacks into Lessons

Early on with PHH Hospitality, I planned a club night I thought would be epic—top promoters, perfect vibe, all set. But when the doors opened, only half the tables and crowd showed up. It stung, but instead of dwelling, I dug in: Were the promoters overhyped? Was the marketing off? That night taught me how to vet talent and push harder on promo, leading to packed events. In real estate, I hit a wall in my second year with Vibe Investment when a contractor I’d trusted for months botched a roof job on a property. All four units suffered rain damage, forcing me to pursue legal action to resolve the issue. That headache forced me to tighten my vetting process for contractors and double-check work. Research shows seeing setbacks as feedback, not failure, keeps you driven. Ask, “What’s this teaching me?” and watch the comeback unfold.

Lean on Your Crew

Nightlife taught me relationships are everything. Mentors, partners, and friends keep me grounded. When a real estate deal fell through a few years back, a mentor pointed me to a better opportunity. Studies say a strong network boosts resilience by offering fresh perspectives. Hit up your people, share the struggle, and let their wisdom recharge you. Like I’ve said on platforms like Voyage LA, networking isn’t just who you know, it’s who lifts you up.

Stay Tied to Your Why

Why do you do this? For me, it’s crafting epic experiences with PHH Hospitality and building legacy wealth through Vibe Investment. When a deal went sideways recently, I leaned into my purpose: creating moments and opportunities that spark joy. Research confirms aligning with your core “why” fuels motivation through tough times. Write yours down and keep it close, it’s your anchor when the grind feels heavy.

Chunk It, Crush It

Big goals can feel impossible after a setback. When I started Vibe Investment six years ago, real estate was a steep climb. I didn’t aim for a portfolio overnight, I focused on one market, one deal, one win. Research backs this: SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) build momentum. Break your goal into small steps, and each one’s a reminder you’re still in the game.

Go Easy on Yourself

I’ve had nights in nightlife and real estate where I questioned everything. But self-criticism kills your drive. When a property deal didn’t close last year, I reminded myself: one miss doesn’t define me. Studies show self-compassion, treating yourself like a friend, strengthens resilience. Cut yourself some slack. You’re not a failure; you’re a hustler still shining.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Setbacks are just detours. A bad night early in PHH sharpened my event game. A tough real estate deal in year three with Vibe Investment taught me to diversify. A decade-plus in nightlife and six years in real estate prove it’s about the long game. As I shared on Bold Journey, discipline and vision trump any stumble. Picture your five years out goal—it’ll pull you through the noise.

Keep the Vibe Alive

Setbacks don’t stop the show—they shape it. Re-frame them, lean on your network, stay true to your why, break goals into steps, be kind to yourself, and keep the long game in focus. Whether you’re running nightlife like PHH Hospitality or building wealth like Vibe Investment, resilience is your edge.

Got a setback story or motivation tip?

Drop a comment or DM me on instagram @Hardy_Hollywood I’d love to hear how you keep it moving! Ready to level up your hustle? Check out my consulting services at hardyvibert.com for tailored strategies to crush it.

Want to stay connected? Follow my journey as I continue to build, create, and inspire.