Will 2018 Be Your Best Year Yet?

No, this is not a blog about New Year’s resolutions. We all know what happens to those. Most of them are forgotten by February 1. Some don’t even make it to January 2!

Instead, let’s look at some key areas of your life and focus on a few strategic actions you can take that will lead to dramatic improvement and growth, right where you need it most.

Your work.

The real estate market is still on the rise in most parts of the country. But supply is gradually catching up with demand, so it may be a better market for buyers than sellers in 2018. Prices are projected to increase more at the low end of the market than the high end. Millenials will begin to have a bigger impact, meaning you need to pay attention to first time buyers. And keep an eye on the tax reform legislation that’s working its way (painfully!) through Congress. No matter what the final outcome, real estate will be impacted. Be prepared to adjust and give your best advice to your clients.

And what does all this mean to you? Bottom line: you need to be at the top of your game. Here’s our three-point action plan:

• Each night write down the three most important things you need to accomplish the next day.
• Each morning get up and do some form of physical exercise (brushing your teeth does not count).
• Then take a look at last night’s list and do the most important thing first.

Your relationships.

No man or woman is an island, to borrow an old adage. No matter where you work, you’re going to have to spend time and emotional energy interacting with other people. Some situations can be touchy, but if you anticipate and think them through in advance, you’ll know what to say and you’ll do it comfortably. For example:

• You are constantly pressured to say yes and you’re over-committed already. People are encroaching on your time. Whether it’s clients, colleagues, or bosses they want more of you. How do you respond? Here’s the magic phrase: “I’m sorry, I have another commitment.” Why does this work? Because you are protecting yourself without giving away any personal information. You can always add, “I’ll follow up with you tomorrow to make sure I haven’t missed anything.” You will be available, but you’re protecting your own well-being by doing things on your schedule.
• You need to discuss an uncomfortable subject. Maybe your receptionist lacks grammar skills or your office assistant needs a haircut and a wardrobe makeover. Here’s the magic phrase: “Somebody gave me some good advice years ago and I’d like to do the same for you.” Why does this work? Because you’re letting the other person know you’ve been where they are. You’re not talking down to them; you’re sharing your experience.
• Someone is taking credit for your ideas. There’s one in every office—they know how to sell ideas—theirs and yours too. Here’s the magic phrase: “Thanks for highlighting my idea. You’ve given us a great starting point.” Why does this work? You’re acknowledging the other person without putting them down. It shifts the focus back to you and you can go on to suggest additions to the original idea or rephrase it in your own words.

Your spiritual and emotional well-being.

If you are in a constant state of overwhelm, you’re not taking care of your spiritual or your emotional health. The solution? Unplug! Cancel your appointments and call in a wellness day (not a sick day!) Visit a museum, an art show, or take in a concert. Go to a spa. Spend the day at the beach with a good book. DON’T go to bed and binge-watch trashy movies—you’ll feel worse and it won’t do anything to clear your mind. Turn off your phone, your tablet, your TV. If the world comes to an end, someone will be sure to tell you. You may get some insights or brilliant ideas while your mind is idling through the day. Write them down.

Our recommendations are simple and by no means all-inclusive. But if you do these few things, consistently, your life will go more smoothly and your success will be assured. Will 2018 be your best year yet? It’s up to you.