Many people are drawn to the real estate profession because they want to be in charge of their own schedules.
And while it is true that we are in full control and have the final say when it comes to time allotment, the fact of the matter is that every day brings surprises that can throw even the most organized scheduler off kilter.
And as far as a FULL day off, that is to say, one with NO real estate business conducted, it just doesn’t happen.
I know for a fact that over the last four years I have written at least one blog post every day. I also suspect that I have received at the very minimum one phone call a day including Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“Vacations” include all of the above plus document handling and appointment shuffling and a lot of worrying about retaining business in an ever increasing impatient world.
Lately, my days “OFF” include at least four hours of real estate work. I average about ninety hours a week total.
I’m not complaining. It’s my choice.
After all, I get to se my own hours.
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Funny, you are so right! Set you own hours - yeah right, AFTER people call you wanting to see a listing on Superbowl Sunday, 15 min before the game starts, right?!
Oh the pros and cons of real estate! I love my job but making plans are tough and often interrupted. I do like the versatility of my schedule though.
This is one of the issues I fight with constantly! Vacation, what's that?
Richard even after four years you still have a succinct point or thought every day, thank you for that...and of course the springtime photos!! There is a lot of freedom and peace of mind from being in control of your destiny, but the hours fly by when you love what you do.
Suggested and Liked. Well I guess it's good to know it's not just me working 7 days a week. We keep trying to figure out how to get a full day off but it doesn't seem to happen. Balance is what we're in need of, Debbie and I promise each other the next day will be ours then the phone rings or we remember something work wise that needs our attention or so we think. You spoke the truth when you stated, we make our own hours......
Outside of a blog, I took yesterday off. It has been a long time since I had the majority of a day off though. I should try that.
Good morning Richard. As usual, I laughed when I read your post because there was so much truth in it. That said I take at least one major trip a year, and I am really off. It helps refresh me. Besides it's not like I carry a heart in a cooler. I find even the less dedicated among us can make a living without the intensity. Just sayin....
The last time was 4+ years ago. I went to Mexico for a week and left the computer and phone behind. I blocked it all from my mind and enjoyed the moment.
Richard, I cannot imagine what it might be like! I can't remember the last time I didn't have a phone or computer with me wherever I might be. I think our lives are a series of interruptions. I do find that if I go to the beach, I tend to slow down though, there is something calming about the sound of crashing waves against the sand. It's nice to know that we are not alone, though....!
You gotta sharpen the saw and feed your mind some "bubble gum" during a little downtime every now and then.
I think it is all a matter of balance. A little work on a "down day" is OK. We can still take calls if we are at Busch Gardens (and I have!) The main thing is to make sure that I don't miss out on those special moments with my family. My children will only have so many concerts, days at the beach, plays, games, etc. I don't want to miss those!
Richard, I have been in business for myself much of my life and I find that is ti seldom that a full day off comes around.
I'd say that on any day, ever I spend at least 30 minutes doing blogging, email or something related to work. I have never, ever, had a day truly "off".
It is hard for us to take a full day off. Even when we do, our minds are still wrapped around our work.
Richard, I'd agree. Between the two jobs, I can't remember the last true, full day off. I'm checking email, answering calls, etc. no matter where I am for at least some portion of the day.
Hi Richard. My guess is you are a lot like me...
It is a labor of love!
Thanks for writing!
Ken
Tanja...
I know it ... they they something like "it's a good time for me because I don't like football!"
Sara...
Some days are better than others! Thanks so much.
Peter...
It's a lot of people getting mad at you, that's what a vacation is. Thanks.
Maria...
Some days it is harder than other to come up with an idea. Thanks.
John...
I can assure you, that it is NOT just you. Thanks my friend.
90 hours a week? I need more family/personal time in my life than that would allow. It's all about striking the balance that makes sense for you, but for me, a 45 hour week is just fine...