7 Signs That A Real Estate Agent is Overdue for a Vacation

Let's have some real talk here. Sometimes we just need a break! I'm not talking about a day away. I mean a really good, long, no phone service, relaxing, straight-up disconnect from our business vacation. A true and real vacation. I also know it's a lot easier said than done too. We "try" to go on vacation, but there's always some pressing matter that distracts us.

We even joke about it in the real estate industry. How many times have you heard "Need more business, just go on vacation!!"? And half of the time, it's true. At some point, however, you need to learn to say enough is enough and trust other people to handle things while you regenerate. If not, it could fast-track you to the burn-out route and that's a lot harder to bounce back from.

I totally get it, we develop our businesses like they are part of us and we feel an avid responsibility to them. It's hard just to let go, but isn't that why we got into business for ourselves? So we could have freedom and live a life that we enjoy? The problem is that we have a fear of not being there for our clients, a fear of something not getting done, a fear of missing out on a commission, etc.

The problem with that thought process is that operating from a "fear-based" mentality is not going to help your business. In fact, it's going to increase your stress level. Let's look at some various ways that may apply to see if you're a real estate agent that's ready for vaca. Then, we'll look at why it's so important for you to go on vaca if it's time.

Irritable

If you find yourself getting irritable more frequently, this could be a sign that it's time for a disconnect. The more frequently you get irritable, the more your clients and those around you will feel it. It doesn't help anyone and it might be time to step back and regroup.

Exhausted Frequently

Exhaustion can sometimes be caused by being overworked, overwhelmed, or depression setting in. We need to pay attention to our bodies and minds, and what they need. If you find yourself exhausted regularly, then it's time to figure out why. If there are no underlying physical reasons, then it very well could be mental and you may be overdue for a break. Talk to your doctor first, and if all is well, then start planning that trip.

No Concentration or Focus

As you may know, this is a big one for me personally. When I start feeling scatterbrained and lack attention span, it's a big sign to me that I need rest and a change in environment to realign. Taking time away from my normal routines and stressors helps me to get grounded and also allows me time to "miss" my business. Yes, you heard that right. If I'm away too long, I literally miss my business. It usually takes me about 9 or 10 days, but when I come back I'm so thankful to get back to doing what I love. Of course, my business crosses my mind when I'm away, but I'm so much clearer and aptly much more ambitious when I return.

Feeling Stuck or Helpless

Feeling stuck or helpless in your business is never a good feeling. It can make you feel trapped and no one is happy when they feel that way. Getting away allows you to "see the forest for the trees" so to say. It gives your mind time to relax and let your subconscious work on those obstacles in the background.   

Not Excited About Taking New Clients

I'm not saying that you need to be super-celebratory-excited over new clients like you did when you were first licensed, but there should be at least a little elation. I still get that feeling of "a job well done" when I sign on a new client. It's a feeling of happiness that they trust me enough to do business with me. If they are a repeat client, that's even better! I'm thankful for them and that hasn't stopped after 20 years in this business.

If you aren't at least a little excited when you have another client, then maybe it's time to step back and decide about refreshing your business or learning a new aspect of the industry. That's one of the most beautiful aspects of our real estate careers. We can learn a new side of the trade and develop further at any point without having to go to college. You may just need new life breathed into your business, but take some time away to figure that out for yourself. You deserve that peace.

No Feeling of Accomplishment at Closings

So you landed the client, made it through the obstacle course of the deal, closed, and received a check, but you still feel just "meh." Remember the time that you were in amazement that you even got that far? That you even received a check? Think back to when you closed your first 2 or 3 deals in one month. That was an amazing feat at that time for you!

As real estate agents, shouldn't we still be holding onto some of that "magic?" We should never let our businesses get so stagnant that we just are going through the motions. What kind of career is that? Maybe it's time to reinvent yourself, maybe it's time for a refresh or an upgrade? If you're not taking time to reflect and get aligned with the direction and level of satisfaction that you want from your business, you're never going to know and always just stay in the "meh." I surely don't want that for my business, do you?   

Feeling Anxiety About Setting Goals

Ok, here's a biggie. Why? Because goals are so valuable to us. They put us in the direction of what we want from our real estate businesses. Whether that be 10 deals a year or 100 deals a year, there's no wrong answer. It's all personal to us and I've been on both ends of the spectrum. As long as you're working towards something in order to move forward then that's progress.

Maybe you're even planning on scaling back due to other commitments or life goals, there's no shame in that. Many people in real estate also have other passions in life. It's perfectly normal regardless of all that "I'm so busy" talk that is shoved down our throats. If you aren't taking time to ask yourself what you really want and pursue YOUR dreams and aspirations, you're never going to know though. Step away, reflect, think, and come back with a goal in focus.

So there you have it, 7 possible signs that you may need a vacation from your real estate agent life. If you resonated with any of the aforementioned signs, Expedia may be calling your name! So tell me dear agent, where will your next vaca destination be?

Peaceful Travels and Renewed Energy ~ Your Real Estate Coach,
Amanda