One month later, I am still deep in the process of change, but here is what I have learned thus far.
1. Change is scary…but exciting at the same time!
John Hripko (yes still my mentor and my friend!) – shared this quote with me last week:
” Think about your legacy, because you are writing it every day. ”
Well… that is a pretty powerful statement isn’t it???!!!! If you want to accomplish new goals, change is simply non-negotiable. It is literally impossible to grow without changing. And CHANGE is something I have always struggled with. I won’t lie – I have had moments that have caused stress and angst….and I have had moments of clarity and calm. Both are ok – and both are necessary.
2. People matter.
Your relationships are important! Personal and business. Past and future. They are literally the MOST important thing. Because here’s the secret …. if you have support from the people in your life … you can literally do ANYTHING! I am so fortunate. So blessed. I have the best family/friends/clients/contacts. People who truly want me to succeed. Offers of assistance and help. Messages of kindness and encouragement. My old team has demonstrated over and over – that we will always be a TEAM. People ask me how it is “on my own” … and while so much is different – so much is also the same. I do not feel alone on an island at all! Plus … I have Bailey!!!
3. Investing in your business is worth it.
Coming from a team – my expenses were low. I would order photographs and signs without a second thought and when the printer ran out of paper – it was magically always there! (Thanks John!) In the past month, I have “invested” more than I thought could be possible! Complete basement renovation (Bailey and I need to work somewhere), new branding, website, professional photos, business cards, lockboxes and the stickers that go on them (who knew!?!) Key tags, presentation folders, computers, desks, printer etc etc etc. Not to mention the TIME investment into training….developing systems…and “best” business practices. I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “you gotta spend money to make money,” right? Though it may seem like a cliche – it’s actually true. You really do need to invest in your business. I have learned I simply can’t do it all. Luckily, there are people and services out there – that can help me save time (and stress!) on tasks that are not my core competency!
4. All you can be is yourself, so you better start liking yourself now!
This is by far the biggest lesson I have learned in life – and in real estate. There are 5700+ realtors in my area…and there is truly a client for every one of them. Be yourself. Be authentic. People want to work with someone they TRUST! Contrary to what “Selling Sunset” suggests – you do not have to drive the nicest car…live in the biggest house or wear the nicest clothes. Find your strengths. Hone your skills. Learn as much as you can. Do your BEST work for your clients. That is all they really want.
Thank you again to everyone who has supported me on this journey. I will end with my own quote (Yoda from Star Wars): “Do or do not. There is no try.”