Navigating Challenging Times
How do you get back on track when life isn’t going according to your plan?
Accept the situation. You don’t have to like the situation We can all agree that we are amid a difficult chapter in mortgage history. It is impacted by unfortunate external factors. Namely, higher rates and low inventory. Once you've accepted this situation, your energy and focus can be redirected toward how you chose to deal with it.
Focus on what you can control. There are always things that are out of your control. Fortunately, there are also things that you can ALWAYS control. Jeb Blount’s perspective on this from his book Fanatical Prospecting is very helpful when it comes to this. According to him, there are only three things that you can control and all begin with your-your actions, your reactions and your mindset. These are the things you should be focusing on each day to push through adversity.
Reach out for support. Fairway offers many resources for you to connect with other people. Seek out opportunities to gather with others in your office, at company meetings or on the many calls available and designed to inspire, encourage, and teach. When you are in a positive space encourage someone else by sharing a win, an idea or offering your ear. This allows you to provide hope and celebrate your progress. By the same token, don’t hesitate to reach out when you need to be propped up. It is valuable to be transparent about your challenges. Knowing that you are not alone is very powerful. It takes a lot of energy to maintain a façade and it doesn’t serve you well.
Take care of yourself. Make sure that you're getting enough sleep, eating healthy food, and exercising regularly. Your mental health is also very important. What are you reading and listening to? A healthy dose of optimism and positivity can go a long way. You can reset your thoughts and your perspective though what you feed your mind.
Find meaning and purpose. Consider what gives your life meaning and purpose beyond work. This might be your faith, your hobbies, or your family to name a few. Volunteering can be a wonderful way to be of service and to warm your heart. Time to remind yourself that who you are goes well beyond what you do.
Don't give up. It's important to remember that this is merely a season-difficult times don't last forever (although it can sure feel that way when you’re in the middle of it!). You will come out the other side stronger and more resilient than ever. Not everyone has what it takes to survive and thrive in difficult times. Those who do (like you!) will reap the benefit of being left standing.
What do you believe? FAITH is a key component for weathering this season. Faith in yourself and your abilities. Faith that like all cycles, there will be an end to this one. You can and will keep going and you’ll ultimately be rewarded for your unwillingness to give up.
Focus on what you can learn every day. Be delighted and amazed by your stamina. You are stronger than you can begin to imagine. If you previously measured your value by units and pay checks, set a new measure of success. Maybe your success is now measured by putting one foot in front of another each day and performing with consistency and grit. Like all difficult seasons, you have much to learn about your internal fortitude. You can choose to be a beacon of hope for your clients, associates, and referral partners. How do you want to be remembered when you look back on this phase of your career?
Be clear that certain principles never change. People have always wanted the American Dream of Homeownership. It is a fundamental truth that stability and wealth are the results of home ownership. Memories are made at home- a home is a haven, a safe space. YOU play a role in the fulfillment of this dream-what a blessing and responsibility
People want to work with people who are optimistic, likeable and have their best interests at heart. Is that how you show up every day? Would you choose to work with you?
DO you have absolute faith that you have within you everything necessary to survive and to be successful? How do you plan to consistently show up at your best when the results lag far behind the efforts that you are expending? Faith is the fuel that propels you forward in these times when you cannot clearly see where you are headed or how to get there. Rest assured that you are closer than you think. Remain flexible-course correct as needed. No plan B-all in!!
ACTIONABLES:
Replace have to with get to
record 3 wins every day
record 3 things you are grateful for every day.
record 3 ways you were a blessing to someone every day
Written by Cathy Fitzpatrick
I am a UCLA graduate and reside in CA. Part time in Carlsbad and part time in Crestline with my beautiful but dysfunctional dog Bodie. My family includes my wonderful son and daughter in law who live in CO and my mom who lives close by in Carlsbad. Also blessed by two communities of close neighbors and friends. I am fortunate to spend my free time running, biking and kayaking at the beach and lake. I also really enjoy podcasts and reading.
I started in the mortgage industry in 1985 as a part time processor (as if there is such a thing!). My career has included processing, underwriting and producing branch manager. I love everything mortgage!
Currently my passion lies in sharing what I have learned over the span of my life and career through coaching. Being able to encourage people to grow into their big dreams bring me an indescribable joy. I am honored to be able to do this with my Fairway Family members who have a shared vision and culture.
