How to Survive—and Even Thrive—in this Challenging Time

I’ve been hearing several themes during my conversations with clients this month:  One is that many agents are still working non-stop to take advantage of the bustling market.  Two is that offers and negotiations are more challenging than ever; and three is that some agents are run-down and sick with the flu or a random virus, while others are battling Covid.

 This has been a very challenging time for many people.  Even if you don’t believe in astrology, the fact that Mercury has been retrograde since May 10th means that communications have been breaking down, negotiations have been stalled, appointments have been broken, and, for some, things in general seem to be at a stand-still.

 The good news is that this period ends on Thursday, June 2nd, so life should be back on track by the end of next week. 

 How can you survive—and even thrive—in this late spring market? 

 Here are a few tips:

 1.    Take even better care of yourself.  Actually sit down and eat lunch.  Make sure you get some exercise each day.  Find a way to de-stress…whether it’s by meditating, doing yoga, power-walking, doing deep breathing, taking baths, or having a massage.  All are great ways to take time off from business and focus on you.

 Book an appointment with yourself on your calendar. Taking even two hours every few days will make a big difference in your life. 

 Make a list of enjoyable activities you can do:  Take a friend to a long lunch; go to the driving range; take a walk in the park; plant pansies, geraniums or petunias in a window box or in your garden; take an art or cooking class.  Whatever.  The break will have a huge positive effect on your outlook and on your well-being. 

          If clients or customers want to meet with you during your two-hour

         hiatus, tell them that you have another appointment, and schedule        

         them for a different time.

 2.    Perhaps the most important point:  GET ENOUGH SLEEP.  Our bodies require a certain amount of sleep.  If we fail to heed them we pay the price in lack of energy, increased mistakes, irritability, decreased focus, etc.  Make a point of going to bed one hour earlier each night for a week, and see if you notice a difference.

 3.     Prioritize.  Delegate your non-essential tasks to other people—either agents in your office, paid temporary help, or even family members.  If you have an assistant, ask him or her what other tasks they could be doing for you.  Then let them do them!   Spend your valuable time on the tasks that will bring you the greatest returns.

 As always, feel free to give me a call or email me if you’d like more personalized support and feedback.  Happy Spring!