By: Khalid Bryan

As a real estate professional, you are an entrepreneur. Being a business owner is not easy on the mind. The traditional job isn’t either, but there are unique challenges that entrepreneurs face—lack of a steady paycheck, being the marketer, the accountant and the manager—that don’t exist in the traditional workforce. There are also unique challenges faced in the real estate industry—market volatility and the mental load of being the client’s advisor on top of managing the transaction—that other industries might not face. It can take it’s toll, and in order to thrive for the long-term, real estate practitioners must keep their mental health top of mind.

Recognizing mental fatigue is paramount, and various signs, such as procrastination and irritability, serve as red flags. Maintaining control over reactions is crucial, as every response becomes a part of your narrative, shaping your personal and professional story. Stress and feeling overwhelmed can turn minor inconveniences into significant challenges. Confusion and forgetfulness can also manifest, causing moments of introspection like why am I in the kitchen? or missing an exit during a familiar drive.

Seek the Help You Need

Entrepreneurial challenges, including stressful transactions and insults during cold calls, can take a toll on confidence and mental well-being. Instances like having the police called due to mistaken suspicions can evoke imposter syndrome, leading to thoughts of quitting. Safety is something to stay on top of in the industry, but a negative experience can color experiences that come after it. And then there’s the ups and downs of the market, working with many different personalities, often simultaneously if there’s more than one transaction happening and running a business. It’s important to note that the job is not easy, and it is completely normal to struggle through parts of it. The key, however, is to ensure you have an adequate support system.

Fellow industry professionals and friends can help ease the burden. And therapy is a valuable option, providing essential support to navigate the unique stressors of entrepreneurship.

Take Care of Yourself First

Taking mental breaks is essential for a fulfilling and enduring career. Acknowledging the impact of stress on one’s life, occasional “Do Nothing Days” are necessary. Recognizing that stress can diminish the quality of service, entrepreneurs must prioritize their happiness. While responsibilities to family or teams may feel overwhelming, self-care is non-negotiable.

Incorporating moments of personal indulgence within daily tasks, like enjoying a long shower with music or exploring favorite sections of stores, contributes to mental well-being. Stealing time for oneself during routine activities or planning visits to uplifting places, such as art galleries or upscale car dealerships, can provide rejuvenation. Investing in experiences like vacations, luxurious accommodations, or personal treats is a form of self-care that contributes to maintaining mental balance.

Taking care of one’s physical appearance, such as getting a haircut or a manicure, and engaging in activities like massages or workouts at a preferred gym are crucial aspects of self-care. Learning something new, be it through books, movies, shows, or online classes, helps recharge motivation and gain clarity on personal and professional goals.

Invest in Your Continued Success

During periods without active clients, referred to as the “shift-up” period, investing time in classes and education from reputable sources enhances confidence and positions oneself as an expert in the field. Goal setting and meticulous planning, facilitated by daily to-do lists, contribute to mental maintenance and prevent forgetfulness. Establishing a life goal list aligned with daily tasks ensures consistent progress towards overarching objectives.

The art of growth lies in consistent progress, self-discovery and resilience in the face of setbacks. Engaging in routine goal-setting exercises, such as envisioning the years ahead and defining aspirations, cultivates a sense of purpose and direction in the entrepreneurial journey. Embracing slow and steady growth while staying attuned to personal well-being ensures sustained success in the unpredictable terrain of entrepreneurship.

Khalid N. Bryan is a seasoned real estate broker and trainer based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As the proud owner and manager of The Investment Property Gurus LLC, a reputable real estate brokerage, he has been helping clients navigate the dynamic real estate market since 2014. With a wealth of experience and a passion for empowering others, he specializes in training aspiring real estate professionals to succeed in their careers. He currently serves as a Governor on the 2023 YPN (Young Professionals Network) Board with the Miami Realtors Association. Keep up with Khalid on Instgram, YouTube, and make sure you check out The Investment Property Gurus’ website.