In 2007, How & Where will you Get a Life?

Yes, this was an actual title for a sermon that I heard today.  A little surprising given the assumption is that most people who are listening to sermons have presumably submitted to a philosophy which promises the follower that adherence to the principles espoused guarantees "eternal life".   However, in a world that is becoming increasingly fundamental with about the same rigor as it is becoming dangerously fanatical it is increasingly clear that "getting a life" or even losing it to hopefully gain it (for instance as is practiced by suicide bombers )is a real concern for many people.

My thoughts meandered a little during the sermon as I began mulling about what “getting a life and where & how that might occur” would be relevant to the challenges of being a Realtor.  Standing on the threshold of 2007, I realize that the expositor was onto something.  Many in the real estate community are wondering how and where they are going to get a life this New Year.  Perhaps, more succinctly stated, many are wondering how they are going to make a living this next year. In a profession where nothing is guaranteed, but theoretically everything is possible, the eternal optimist in all of us flourishes.  But, the dark shadow of our uncertainty and vulnerability lurks as well. It is intriguing that the light that allows potential to be revealed also creates the darkness which shadows its outline.

In speaking to fellow Realtors, it is obvious that this concern about how we will create a living for the upcoming year looms large. Questions like, (Will I make as much as last year?  Where will I find buyers for my property listings or homes to list? How will I cope with all the changes and potential costs?), are tacit even though sometimes unexpressed concerns.  The entrepreneurial spirit that propels us into a sales career is one which can require increasingly mega doses of motivational mania to sustain the momentum.  Thus begins the quest for the next new or big thing and the race to discover it before everyone else does. On a more troubling note, it can cause a loss of connection with good priorities as the weeds of worry make us forget or minimize the principles that nourished our success in the first place.

The truth can sometimes be seen most astutely when reflected through a different paradigm.  Suppose, everyone in the world stepped outside their home and gulped as much air as possible, jumping up and down to maximize their air usage?  Would this action by 6 billion people be sufficient to expunge all the air available for human consumption from the atmosphere?  The answer is of course, NO.  But why do we behave in this way when it comes to our personal gain and welfare? 

There is no need to fear.  For when we choose powerful, life enhancing options such as decency, empathy & concern for the welfare of others, integrity, follow-through, going the extra mile, politeness and doing an honest days work ( as opposed to complaining, griping or worrying about what may or may not happen)life unfolds and explodes with options.  It has always been the case that the expansion of zero remains zeros!  But, every time, a positive integer is multiplied or added to with consistency, it is impossible to keep a good number down...also applicable to a good Realtors or members of any profession.

So, perhaps the question needs to be re-framed a little.  It's not so much about how and where I will get a life in 2007; rather it is about how and where I will create a life of vitality, prosperity, and power in my own life and in the lives of others who I will have the privilege of interacting with.  Instead of being fearful about where the next listing or commission will come from, I urge us to choose to anticipate the opportunity and create pathways ofclarity for its unimpeded progress into our lives.  Just as there is enough air for all, there is more than enough business for serious, dedicated, motivated individuals to thrive in 2007....and I plan to do just that!  Have a Happy, Blessed and Prosperous New Year!