I am a firm believer in living what you love, loving what you do, and not settling for anything less than excellence.

The trick, of course, is actually achieving those goals.

Think about what you really, truly love. Typically, you do that activity well. It makes you feel exhilerated and fulfilled. But there may be that little voice in your head that says "Oh, I couldn't really do this for my life's work. It wouldn't pay me anything. It's not practical. I have  a family to think of now. I couldn't walk away from everything and start over again."

Have you heard that voice?

Tell it to be quiet, go away.

Haven't found your passion yet? I suggest a sabbatical or at least a short retreat. Find some silence away from the noise of the world and just "be". Keep a journal. Write down the 50 things you would like to do, no matter how outlandish or unrealistic. I guarantee you will find a pattern. Your passion will reveal itself.

If you are not passionate about real estate you will not do well long term. Your clients will know, your colleagues will know. Sometimes everyone else knows before you. Just like a poker player's "tell", you will give yourself away.

If you are passionate about your work, you will succeed.

I wish you all a passionate life.