Many of us know that Active Rain is a wonderful tool that can help promote websites and be a place for referrals. I know that I have seen my share of the benefits of Active Rain.  This blog is not about how to promote websites, best techniques used for marketing, or SEO's.  This blog is about keeping Active Rain real and keep it in perspective. If you are like me, competition is what drives me to succeed, I strive to be the best I can be in all areas.  However once the points start accumulating, the euphoria that I got caused me to be obsessed about points. But that is not the purpose of Active Rain.  The points are not what matters, it is the information that matters the most, and by reading and absorbing it, you will become a more reputable and knowledgeable realtor.

On a side note:  Many of us in the industry, myself included, can become pre-occupied with work and the euphoria of getting the deal done. Real estate is not what even really matters.  I learned the hardest lesson of my life this weekend, because what really matters is that family should come above all else. Without family as I realtor I feel empty, because there is no one else to share your successes and tribultions with. There is no one to support you or no one to assist you in your preparation work.  No amount of points are worth the loss of your family, and the joys that come with it. You can still be the best at what you do, but it helps that everything you do, you should do in moderation. Anything above that would be considered harmful to you. If your wife or your children are feeling not appreciated, make sure that you show them the time that you care, and remember to listen to what they have to say.  You might not get another chance to let them know how much you love them or appreciate them being in your life. Therefore make the most of every day that you have with them, otherwise you will come home to nothing. Show them they are important and that you care for them above all else.

Bottom line:  Points don't matter, but the connections made are worth their weight in gold.