Problems Give Meaning to Life and Growth

As we near the end of the year, we’ve started business planning with our advisors, setting goals, refining habits, and preparing for what’s ahead.

Last week, our coach Joe Gilmour shared something that really connected with what I had been reading in John Maxwell’s Developing the Leader Within You. We talked about it as a team today, and it reminded me how important it is to stay grounded in growth, both personally and professionally.

Lately, I’ve been more intentional about what I take in — waking up early to read, listening to voices that lead with purpose, and surrounding myself with wisdom that strengthens my perspective. It’s helping me grow as a leader and, I hope, encourage our entire team along the way.

The Eagle and the Air

In reading Developing the Leader within you, John Maxwell shares the words of a wise philosopher, “The eagle’s only obstacle to flying is the air. But that same air, the resistance, is what gives it lift.”

That line stopped me. Because the truth is, without resistance there’s no strength. Without obstacles there’s no growth.

It’s a principle that applies to life, leadership, and real estate alike.

The Resistance That Lifts Us

In real estate, our version of the “air” is everything that challenges us: rising interest rates, limited inventory, market shifts, long days, and short deals.

It’s easy to think those things hold us back. But more often than not, they’re what build our endurance, discipline, and creativity.

We don’t grow in the easy seasons.
We grow in the ones that stretch us.

Eighty Percent Growth, Twenty Percent Business

Coach Joe reminded us that success isn’t about working harder on real estate; it’s about working harder on ourselves.

If we focus 80 percent of our effort on developing ourselves:  our mindset, consistency, and leadership, and 20 percent on the business itself, everything else falls into place.

Because business growth follows personal growth.
The market doesn’t decide our outcome. Our mindset does.

That’s why business planning isn’t just about numbers and production. It’s about capacity.
Who do I need to become to handle the success I’m asking for next year?

Problems as Preparation

The challenges in front of you aren’t punishment; they’re preparation.
Every setback is refining your skill, patience, and focus.

Each tough deal teaches you how to negotiate better.
Each lost listing sharpens your follow-up.
Each slow month builds your resilience.

Resistance doesn’t block the path. It is the path.

Shaping Strength for Tomorrow

As we close out the year and plan for the next, I’m reminded of this simple truth:
Life’s heaviest burden is having nothing to carry.

The challenges we’re facing right now are shaping the strength we’ll need for tomorrow’s opportunities.

So don’t run from resistance.
Use it.

Let every problem remind you that you’re building capacity, not losing momentum.

Because the very air that challenges your wings is also what makes you fly.