Change is Hard but the Results can be Rewarding

     As human beings, we can all get into our routines and ruts. "This is how we do this", I always do ___ this way", "When I am driving, I always ___", "We usually spend Christmas at ___", etc.

     Then something changes in our lives. Maybe a new young staff member at the office who has better (newer) computer skills who can show me a faster, better way to do something that is eating up my time. So the systems must be changed.

      We lose a loved one, as I did, or all the kids are grown and scattered, so Mama is not hosting Christmas or Thanksgiving this year. That opens another window. Now the daughters can step in and be the hostess for family and friends. Mama can help, as well as relax and enjoy the family more. Traditional foods can be changed to include some new dishes and eliminate a few oldies that are too difficult or unhealthy as the group prefers. Mama can share recipes and help the younger ones carry on the preferred ones. New games are played. Great times are had! Lots of good memories! Or what about a Cruise?

     We get that way with our prospecting and business as well. "This is how I always start my day." (Is it maybe time for a change or shake-up?)"I advertise my properties _______." (Is this still working or is there a more effective way?) "I always meet my clients at the office" (Is this the best way for them to do business? Maybe kids or mobility issues make in-home meetings best.)

     I have challenged myself and suggest you may also want to consider looking at all the routines and systems, and even the stuff and seeing if they are still working best for us. In the shifted market, we need to consider the amount of time, the cost, the effectivness and ROI of all we do. In case you haven't noticed, the times are changing whether we like it or not. Money is not endless and it will not extend your enjoyable liifetime. Neither is life. It slips by with no way to slow it down. My goals need to be redefined as I learn to live alone for the first time in decades.

     And real estate has also made tremendous changes and with a continually growing burst of unstoppable speed,  Even if the market is difficult in your area, the way we do it is still radically different. It IS time for change. Embrace it. Enjoy it! Make it an Awesome 2009!