The Things I Learned in Kindergarten Still Apply in Life and Blogging....
Although kindergarten taught me some basic lessons to be learned for life. It didn t end there. I have raised four children to adulthood, been married for almost thirty years, have had close family members pass away and in general, have learned many life lessons which have resulted in making me the person I am today.
Blogging provides a whole new level of learning, as it pertains to life, business and real estate. With so many people blogging ( there are approximately 11.8 million indexed sites for a Google Search for real estate blogs), there is a lot of information available. Everyone has their own style, opinions and insight. Blogging lends itself to obtaining a lot of knowledge and understanding of the person who blogs.
Early on, I decided I would bring local information to those who may be searching for that information through my blog. I visit the areas which I write about and research information before voicing my opinion or facts about issues which affect real estate in Indianapolis. I posts pictures, neighborhood info, as well as new happening in the city. Occasionally, I will write something of controversy to stir some thoughtful perspection. Sometimes, like today, I may post a random thought.
What have I learned about business, real estate and life through blogging? There are some basic principles learned in kindergarten and life which still definitely apply to the business of blogging and real estate.
*Play Fair Real estate is a very competeitive field regardless of the city or market you serve. Some do not play fair, which creates a bad name and image for all.
I strive to be fair to everone in my business and to raise the standard of professionalism in real estate.
*Don t hit people You don t have to have a fist or stick to hit people. Words and accusations can do the trick. There are many who prefer to throw stones and words.
A gentle answer turns away wrath. It is never my intent to publicly denegrate another s practice. I may write about things I see which are not in the best interest of a client, but never publicly mention a name, company or business.
*Share I wouldn t expect agents to share everything about their business, however, I have found many willing to do so. They do not fear competition, they welcome it, because it forces them step up their game. It is a win-win for everyone, especially the real estate client.
I receive a great sense of satisfaction helping others whether it in business, blogging, life or other issues. I guess I couldn t be a Realtor without experiencing a great degree of satisfaction in doing so.
*Be Nice Rudeness has no place in the business world. Much more can be accomplished with a kind deed and word; yes, even a kind rebuke.
I don t need to add to this one.
*Don t take things which aren t yours This should go without saying, but you would be surprised how many people prefer to steal a bloggers work, rather than take time to write their own.
My work is mine, for better or worse, it is mine.
*When you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands and stick together You can t be friends with everyone in your neighborhood, your church and even in cyberspace. So, choose your friends and business associates wisely.
When you make those friends, stick together, offer a helping hand and support each other. By all means, watch your internet traffic.
*Seek First to Understand Then to be understood
A lot more can be accomplished through first understanding another.
*Respect Others Whether you agree with someone or not, you can still respect their opinion, while maintaining your own ideas.
Remember the three R s Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.
The beauty of a blog is the person out there reading it has a chance to decide if this is the type of person they would like to work with or associate with. Since all readers and clients are different, different blogs and authors work to help the consumer know a bit more about the agent and the area. That is what blogging is all about.
It s a lot like life and business we don t all have the same life experiences or the same business practices. We are each different Isn t that great and would you want it any other way?
Paula - it's obvious all your life experiences have made you a wise woman. In a society that rushes things today I think many miss the value and important life lessons kindergarden does indeed teach us. I always enjoy reading your random thoughts - keep em coming and have a great week.
Paula- this is perfection! You do a wonderful job with your blog. I love coming here to visit.
Paula- I have to say, this is one of the most refreshing posts I've read in a long time. What kind of place would the world be if everyone tried to behave as conscientiously as they try to teach us in kindergarten? Your blog is a great representation of who YOU are- that's why many of us enjoying reading you :) Keep up the good work!
And your blog is the perfect place to pursue thoughtful reflections like this one. It is a great way to make a living. Thanks Terry
This post hits the nail on the head. Blogging has changed my life in so many ways, and has garnered me attention from other agents that I never would have gotten. So far it has all been positive and friendly, but I expect that it won't always be. Thanks for offering the great insight into real estate blogging.
Paula, very nicely done and a great comparison to life in Kindergarten. Some may have forgotten and this was a nice reminder. Thanks for a good read.
Paula, you have done a tremendous job in making your point that "a few bad apples can spoil the basket". I reflected back on my kindergarten days and what you say is the truth for adulthood and for Realtors. Everyone needs to play nice and respect each other. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We have just started to blog ourselves.