Real estate agents are often typecast as outgoing, enthusiastic, and overall ‘stoked to be here’. While this is often true, each agent is different and everybody has those days when their inner motivation is running low (even Tom Ferry).
The self-improvement industry is now worth over $9 billion in the U.S. alone, with thousands of self-help practitioners offering their fail-proof methods for personal growth. Unfortunately, all this advice is guaranteed to fail if it’s not met with action.
While some people possess a seemingly endless supply of motivation, they’re more than likely taking steps each day to keep themselves moving forward.
If in doubt, order another flat white
Real estate professionals, or kiwis in general, don’t need to be told twice – coffee is the perfect pick me up. Caffeine is a powerful stimulant which increases wakefulness and just happens to be present in the unofficial beverage of our nation - the mighty Flat White. While caffeine is not a magic bullet for motivation, it definitely takes the edge off an early morning start. Just try not to overdo it.
Surround yourself with good people
Find motivation from those around you. Short of being chased by a lion, there’s nothing quite like coming last to make you want to run faster. Surround yourself with people that inspire you to perform at your best. Whether it’s your partner, family, friends, or colleagues, spend time with people that support and encourage you to keep improving.
One analysis of the Framingham Heart Study suggests happiness spreads through social networks. “People who are surrounded by many happy people and those who are central in the network are more likely to become happy in the future.” This network of happiness was seen as a growth pattern and not just a tendency for people to associate with other happy people.
Be realistic
While ‘the hustle’ is an often glorified and sometimes necessary part of becoming a leading agent, avoiding burn-out and a bit of self-care is essential for sustained success. If you’ve already put in a 16-hour day, and you haven’t seen your family in weeks, maybe there’s a reason you’re feeling some inertia. Some stress can be beneficial, but too much stress can push us over the edge and lead to anxiety and a loss of performance.
Take a break
It may seem counter-intuitive, but sometimes taking a break is the best way to refresh your mind and sneak up on the task at hand. Even just 10 minutes of walking, meditation, ranting, or calling a mentor can help you reframe the situation and find a new burst of energy.
Look after yourself
The amount of quality sleep you’re getting significantly affects your ability to access energy ‘on demand’. This directly ties in with motivation. If you’re too tired to get the first thing on your to-do list done, how will you be feeling by 3pm?
Remember your ‘why’
If you’re having a tough day, you’re ready to storm out in a huff, or you just ‘wasted’ two hours browsing for cheap flights to Rarotonga – hang in there and always be willing to begin again.
Cheesy as it may sound, take a moment to think back to why you went into this industry. We’re all motivated by different things. Whether it’s the feeling you get when a deal goes through, the variety, the creativity, or your love of working with people and property, figure out what motivates you and bring it to mind when you’re feeling stuck.
