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Category: Growth

How’s The California Housing Market?

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Let’s dive into the latest market stats and see what’s happening in the California real estate landscape.

Sales Dip, Prices Climb (Year-Over-Year)

January 2024 presented a mixed bag for California’s single-family home market. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Sales Slowdown: Existing home sales hit 254,110 on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. This represents a 10% drop from December and a 1.9% decrease compared to January 2023. So, while the year started with a bit of a lull, it’s important to remember these are annualized rates, and seasonal fluctuations are normal.
  • Median Price Growth: Despite the sales dip, the median home price in California reached $838,850. That’s a 6.3% jump from January 2023, showing that while sales may be slowing, home values are still appreciating in many areas. However, there was a 2.6% drop from December.
  • Year-to-Date Trends: Overall, year-to-date home sales are down by 1.9%.

Inventory on the Rise

One of the more notable shifts we’re seeing is in the availability of homes:

  • Unsold Inventory Index (UII) Increase: The UII, which tells us how many months it would take to sell all the homes on the market, rose to 4.1 months in January. This is up from 2.7 months in December and 3.2 months in January 2023.
  • Active Listings Surge: We’re seeing a significant increase in active listings – the fastest annual growth in two years! This is due to a combination of slower sales activity and a surge of new properties hitting the market at the start of the year.

What Does This Mean?

Essentially, we’re seeing a bit of a market recalibration. Sales are slowing, but prices are still showing year over year growth. And importantly, buyers are seeing more options as inventory increases. This could signal a shift towards a more balanced market.

Stay Informed!

For more in-depth insights, be sure to check out my ALTOS CA LINK for the latest trends.

What are your thoughts on the current California housing market?

Change In Real Estate Inventory
Change In Real Estate Inventory

Unlocking the “Why”: The Emotional Core of Real Estate Sales – Part 1 of 4

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

In this 4-part blog series, we will cover the essential elements of successful lead conversion in real estate. We’ll delve into the psychology of selling, exploring how to understand client motivations, build trust, frame solutions, and create urgency – all while maintaining authenticity and ethical practices.

This first installment focuses on the critical importance of understanding the “why” behind a client’s real estate needs. It’s not just about selling houses; it’s about understanding people.

The Psychology of “Why”:

Human decisions, even seemingly logical ones like buying a house, are deeply rooted in emotion. We rationalize our choices with logic, but the initial spark, the driving force, often comes from a deeper place. As real estate professionals, we must move beyond surface-level inquiries and uncover these core emotional needs.

People buy based on emotions (safety, belonging, esteem) and justify with logic.

  • Key Drivers: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (safety, love/belonging, esteem), loss aversion (FOMO), cognitive dissonance (balancing desires with constraints), anchoring bias (first impressions), and framing (how information is presented).

  • How to Apply: Ask open-ended questions (“Tell me about your ideal home”), listen actively, identify emotional triggers (concerns about safety, excitement about family), tailor your approach to their “why,” and build rapport through empathy. Knowing the “why” lets you connect deeply, anticipate needs, and convert leads.

Actionable Steps:

  1. Go Beyond the Surface: Resist the urge to jump straight into property details. Cultivate a curious mindset. Ask open-ended questions.
  2. Focus on Feelings: Frame your questions to explore the emotional landscape.
  3. Listen Actively: Truly listen, not just to the words, but also to the tone, the pauses, the unspoken emotions.

Example Questions:

  • “Why is finding the right home so important to you right now?”
  • “What are your biggest concerns about selling your current property?”
  • “How will [your service] impact your life/business?”

Conclusion:

Unlocking the “why” is the foundation of strong client relationships. This deeper connection leads to more successful transactions and fosters long-term client loyalty.

Part 2? 

In the next part of this series, we will explore how to build trust, the essential currency of real estate success.

What's Possible?
What’s Possible?

Find Your Grit

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Look, we all know it’s coming. Life throws punches. Pain is inevitable. It’s not a matter of if you’ll face it, but when. As Joe De Sena, the founder of Spartan races, often talks about, it’s a fundamental part of growth.

And when it hits, there are two kinds of people. Those who crumble, and those who rise. It’s a choice, really. Are you going to let the tough times knock you down and keep you there, or are you going to use them to become stronger?

I remember reading this study from UC Irvine – pretty cool stuff. They found that people who went through some hardship actually ended up with better mental health and were more satisfied with their lives than people who had it easy.

Think about it: no struggle, no strength. No Pressure. No Diamond!

Resilience isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build. You get it by facing uncomfortable stuff head-on. You push through, you learn, you grow. You get tougher, and you appreciate the good times way more. I’ve seen it in my own life, big time. It reminds me of that quote:

Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going. ~ Sam Levenson.

Pain is like a forge. It tests what you’re made of. It shows you your grit, and that grit makes you who you are.

One thing that helps me when things get dark: I remember a Stanford study: They found that if you look at stress as a challenge instead of a threat, it actually makes you perform better, mentally and physically. So, next time you’re in the thick of it, tell yourself:

This isn’t breaking me; it’s making me.

The flip side is that if you constantly avoid pain – any kind of pain – you get stuck in this cycle of fear. You avoid things that might actually be good for you because you’re afraid of getting hurt. And that just makes you feel weaker, less capable of handling anything life throws your way.

So, the big question is: when pain comes knocking, are you going to let it define you, or are you going to define it?

Here’s how I try to handle it, inspired by some of Joe De Sena’s philosophy:

  • Take control of the story: Instead of “Why me?” ask “What’s next?” Pain is where you prove yourself.
  • Use pain as fuel: Turn that discomfort into pure determination. Every obstacle you overcome gets you ready for the next one, and the next.
  • Remember your tribe: Pain shared is pain halved. Lean on the people who support you. They’ll help you go further than you ever thought you could.
It's Not Over Until You Win
It’s Not Over Until You Win

The Great Real Estate Shake-Up That Wasn’t (Yet)

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Last summer, there was a lot of buzz about the new National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) rules and how they were supposed to revolutionize real estate commissions. Experts predicted a significant drop in fees, potentially saving homebuyers and sellers thousands of dollars. However, many months later, the dust has settled, and the real estate landscape appears surprisingly unchanged.

According to REDFIN, commissions remain largely unchanged. RisMedia, in a participant-reported study, reported a 15% decrease in commissions. The most notable change – in both studies –  seems to be the increased emphasis on upfront conversations about buyer representation and compensation.

While the rule changes did lead to some procedural adjustments, particularly regarding buyer representation agreements and the removal of commission information from MLS listings, the predicted commission drop hasn’t materialized. In fact, some data (REDFIN study) even suggests that commissions have increased in certain market segments.

What does this mean for agents?

  • Proactive Communication is Key: The requirement for written buyer agreements necessitates agents to be even more proactive in discussing their value proposition and compensation with clients upfront. This presents an excellent opportunity to showcase your expertise and build trust.
  • Transparency is Paramount: While commission information is no longer displayed on the MLS, it remains an essential part of the conversation. Be prepared to openly and honestly discuss your fees with both buyers and sellers.
  • Adaptability is Essential: The real estate market is constantly evolving. Stay informed about any further changes and be prepared to adapt your strategies accordingly.

What does this mean for broker owners?

  • Training and Support: Ensure that your agents are well-informed about the new rules and have the necessary resources to effectively navigate these conversations.
  • Market Analysis: Keep a close eye on local market trends and commission structures to provide valuable insights to your brokerage.
  • Compliance: Strictly adhere to all regulations and ensure your agents follow best practices.

For consumers, this means:

  • Do your research: Understand the role of buyer’s agents and how they are compensated. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and negotiate.
  • It’s a personal choice, so ensure you’re comfortable with the agent and their services before making a decision.
  • Get everything in writing: Ensure all agreements, including commission structures, are clearly documented.

My conclusion? While the NAR rule changes haven’t caused the predicted seismic shift, they emphasize the importance of transparency and communication in real estate transactions. Agents, brokers, and consumers must stay informed and adapt to the evolving market. Transparency always wins the day.

The long-term impact of these changes is uncertain, but one thing is certain: the real estate landscape is constantly changing.

Open loops?
Open loops?

The Shifting Sands of Commercial Real Estate: Navigating the New Normal

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

The commercial real estate (CRE) market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by evolving demographics, technological advancements, and shifting consumer behaviors. While some sectors remain robust, others, particularly office and retail spaces, are facing headwinds. Let’s explore the key trends shaping this dynamic landscape and discuss what they mean for investors and businesses.

1. The Rise of Remote Work and its Impact on Office Space

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, prompting many companies to re-evaluate their office space needs. This shift has led to decreased demand for traditional office spaces, particularly in major urban centers.1 While some companies are returning to the office in hybrid models, the long-term impact on office space demand remains uncertain.2

  • Downsizing and Subleasing: Many companies are downsizing their office footprints or subleasing excess space to reduce costs and adapt to flexible work arrangements.3
  • Demand for Flexible Workspaces: The rise of coworking spaces and flexible office solutions reflects the growing need for adaptable and agile work environments.4

2. The e-Commerce Boom and the Transformation of Retail

The continued growth of e-commerce is reshaping the retail landscape. As consumers increasingly embrace online shopping, traditional brick-and-mortar stores face challenges. This trend is leading to:

  • Store Closures and Vacancies: Many retailers are closing underperforming stores or reducing their physical presence, contributing to rising vacancy rates in shopping malls and retail centers.5
  • Repurposing of Retail Space: Some retail spaces are being repurposed for alternative uses, such as fulfillment centers, distribution hubs, or even residential units.6
  • Experiential Retail: To compete with online retailers, brick-and-mortar stores are focusing on creating unique and engaging in-person experiences to attract customers.7

3. The Industrial Sector: A Bright Spot

In contrast to the challenges faced by office and retail, the industrial sector is experiencing robust growth. This is driven by:

  • E-commerce Growth: The surge in online shopping has fueled demand for warehouses, distribution centers, and logistics facilities to support the growing supply chain.8
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: Recent supply chain disruptions have highlighted the importance of resilient and efficient logistics networks, further boosting demand for industrial space.9

4. Demographic Shifts and Urbanization

Demographic trends, such as the aging population and urbanization, are also influencing the CRE market.

  • Senior Housing: The growing senior population is driving demand for specialized housing options, such as assisted living facilities and retirement communities.10
  • Urbanization: The continued migration to urban areas is creating opportunities for mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and retail spaces.11

My Conclusion? Navigating a Transforming Landscape

The commercial real estate market is in a state of flux, presenting both challenges and opportunities. While the decline in office and traditional retail space demand is concerning, the growth in the industrial sector and emerging trends like flexible workspaces and experiential retail offer promising avenues for investment and development.

Important Considerations

  • Location, Location, Location: The importance of location remains paramount in CRE. Properties in prime locations with strong demographics and accessibility will continue to be in demand.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility: Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in today’s dynamic market. Investors and businesses need to be prepared to adjust their strategies to meet evolving needs and trends.
  • Sustainability and ESG: Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are increasingly important in CRE investment decisions. Buildings with strong ESG credentials are likely to attract tenants and investors.

By understanding the forces shaping the commercial real estate market, investors and businesses can make informed decisions and position themselves for success in this evolving landscape.

References and learn more about it: 

  1. JLL, “Global Office Market Outlook 2023”
  2. CBRE, “The Future of Office Demand”
  3. Cushman & Wakefield, “The Impact of Remote Work on Office Space”
  4. WeWork, “The Global Coworking Growth Study”
  5. Coresight Research, “Store Closures in the US”
  6. Urban Land Institute, “Repurposing Retail Space”
  7. Forbes, “The Rise of Experiential Retail”
  8. Prologis, “Global Industrial Real Estate Outlook”
  9. Knight Frank, “The Impact of Supply Chain Disruptions on Industrial Real Estate”
  10. National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (NIC)
  11. United Nations, “World Urbanization Prospects”

The Cost of Waiting: Why Delaying Decisions Hurts Your Success

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Throwback to one of my most engaged posts from the 100 Days of Success series: this conversation on decision-making remains just as relevant today.

To delay is to pay.

Making tough decisions is never easy. We all procrastinate sometimes, don’t we? But here’s the harsh truth: Delaying those decisions comes at a cost.

It’s not just about the task itself. It’s about the increasing stress, the shrinking window of opportunity, and the potential for even worse consequences down the road.

Think about that project you’ve been avoiding. The longer you wait, the more rushed and stressful it becomes, and the higher the chance of mistakes.  This isn’t just about the quality of your work; it’s about your peace of mind, too.

Indecision, while it may seem like inaction, is actually a decision in itself – a choice to relinquish control and let circumstances dictate the outcome.  You’re essentially deciding not to decide, and that can be the riskiest choice of all.

Time is our most valuable asset, and every moment we waste dithering is a moment lost.

And time always wins.  It doesn’t wait for us to make up our minds.

So, what’s one decision you’re going to tackle today? Share it in the comments below, and let’s hold each other accountable! 

 

A System Will Produce What A System Will Produce, Nothing Less and Nothing More!

 

decisionmaking 

procrastination 

productivity

Demographic Trends Fueling Housing Market Growth – Why the Next 5 Years Look Bright for Residential Real Estate

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

The housing market is demonstrating remarkable resilience, largely thanks to several powerful demographic currents. Let’s delve into these factors and explore their implications for the future of homeownership.

1. Millennials and Gen Z: The Rise of Young Buyers

Millennials (born 1981-1996) and Gen Z (born 1997-2012), the largest generations in history, are entering their prime homebuying years. As they establish families and seek more living space, their demand for housing is surging. This trend is projected to persist for the next decade and beyond, providing a robust foundation for the housing market.

  • Millennials: Approximately 72.7 million in the US.
  • Gen Z: Roughly 69.3 million.

This surge in demand from young buyers is corroborated by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which reports that Millennials comprise the largest share of home buyers.

2. Rising Household Formation

New household formation is another key driver of housing demand. This occurs when individuals get married, have children, or simply move out on their own. As more people establish independent households, the need for housing naturally increases. This trend is particularly strong among Millennials, who are forming families at a later age than previous generations.

3. The Aging Baby Boomers

As Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) reach retirement age, many are downsizing or moving into retirement communities. This frees up existing housing stock, potentially creating opportunities for younger buyers. While this trend may initially lead to a temporary increase in supply, it could also create a demand for smaller, more affordable homes that cater to the needs of an aging population.

4. Immigration’s Impact

Immigration continues to contribute to the housing demand. As people from other countries migrate to the United States, they require housing. This influx of new residents can put pressure on the housing market, especially in urban areas with a high concentration of immigrants. Despite the current political climate, legal immigration remains a significant factor in the housing market.

5. The Urbanization Trend

The ongoing migration to urban areas for jobs, education, and lifestyle amenities is driving demand for housing in cities, where space is often limited and prices are higher. While this can be a challenge for some buyers, it also creates opportunities for investors who are willing to navigate the complexities of urban real estate markets.

My Conclusion: A Resilient Housing Market… Commercial, Another Story

These demographic trends paint a picture of a strong and resilient housing market for the foreseeable future. While economic factors like interest rates and government policies can influence the market, the underlying demographic forces suggest that demand for housing will remain robust. This is encouraging news for both homebuyers and investors looking to capitalize on the growing housing market.

Commercial trends is another story for another blog.

Important Considerations

It’s crucial to remember that these are just a few of the many factors that can affect the housing market. Economic conditions, interest rates, and government policies can also play a significant role. Staying informed about these factors and making well-informed decisions based on your individual circumstances is essential.

By understanding the demographic trends shaping the housing market, you can make more informed decisions about buying or investing in real estate. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and being prepared to seize the opportunities they present is crucial.

Sources to learn more:

  1. U.S. Census Bureau
  2. NAR Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends Report
  3. Pew Research Center
  4. Freddie Mac
  5. National Immigration Forum
  6. Zillow Research

Unlocking Your Potential: Conquer Your Fear of Change

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Let’s face it, change is a constant in life. New jobs, evolving relationships, unexpected twists and turns – it can feel like the ground is constantly shifting beneath our feet. While it’s tempting to dig in our heels and resist the flow, this can actually leave us feeling stuck and unfulfilled. This post is your guide to breaking free from the shackles of fear and embracing change as a catalyst for growth.

1. The “Yes” Experiment: A Week of Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone

Inspired by the improv principle of “Yes, and…”, this challenge encourages you to say “yes” to new experiences for a set period, like a week. Think beyond your usual routine. Instead of ordering your usual latte, try that intriguing cold brew with lavender and oat milk. Accept that impromptu invitation to a pottery class, even if you haven’t touched clay since childhood. Say “yes” to that networking event, even if the thought of small talk makes you cringe. As Dr. Robert Maurer, author of One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way, explains, small, consistent steps outside your comfort zone can lead to remarkable personal growth. This “Yes” experiment is about building your courage muscle and discovering hidden passions you never knew existed.

2. Ignite Your Inner Drive: Connecting Change to Your “Why”

Before embarking on any significant change, take a cue from leadership expert John C. Maxwell’s “Ignition Principle” and ask yourself, “Why?” What’s the driving force behind this change? Does it align with your core values and long-term goals? For example, if you’re considering a career change, don’t just jump ship because you’re bored. Dig deeper. Do you crave more creativity, impact, or flexibility? Connecting your desired change to a deeper purpose fuels your motivation and helps you navigate challenges with resilience.

3. Flip the Script: Challenge Your Inner Critic with “Why Not?”

Our brains are wired to prioritize safety, often leading to a negativity bias when faced with change. Instead of getting bogged down by “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios, try flipping the script and asking yourself, “Why Not?” This simple question can shift your perspective from fear to possibility. As psychologist Carol Dweck, renowned for her work on growth mindset, suggests, embracing challenges and viewing them as opportunities for learning is crucial for personal development. So, the next time you find yourself hesitating, challenge that inner critic with a bold “Why not?” and see where it leads you.

4. Face Your Fears: Tame the “What If” Monster with a Reality Check

Fear of the unknown is a powerful force that can keep us trapped in our comfort zones. To combat this, borrow a technique from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and confront your fears head-on. Let’s say you’re considering moving to a new city. Instead of letting your anxieties run wild, write down your worst-case scenario. Will you be lonely? Will you struggle to find a job? Will you miss your friends and family terribly? Once you’ve identified your fears, objectively assess their likelihood. Can you take steps to mitigate these risks? Do you have support systems in place? Often, you’ll find that your fears are exaggerated or that you have the resources to handle any challenges that may arise.

Embrace the Journey of Transformation

Change is an inevitable part of life. By adopting these four practices, you can learn to ride the waves of change with confidence and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Remember, the most rewarding experiences often lie just beyond the edge of your comfort zone.

So, dare to say “yes,” ignite your purpose, challenge your assumptions, and face your fears.

What's Possible?
What’s Possible?

Founding Principles and Modern Real Estate: Lessons from the Federalist Papers and John Stuart Mill

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Ever wonder how classic political philosophy can relate to the fast-paced world of real estate? Surprisingly, the ideas of thinkers like the authors of the Federalist Papers and John Stuart Mill offer valuable insights for real estate agents, recruiters, and broker owners today. Let’s explore how these seemingly ancient texts can inform modern real estate practice.

The Federalist Papers: Building a Strong Foundation (Like a Well-Planned Community)

The Federalist Papers, a series of essays advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, provide a blueprint for structuring successful real estate businesses:

  • Federalism (National & Local): Just like the balance between national and state governments, real estate operates on both national and local levels. Agents need to be aware of broader economic trends and interest rates while deeply understanding hyperlocal market conditions, school districts, and neighborhood characteristics. Brokerages can also mirror this structure with regional or local branches, fostering specialized knowledge and responsiveness.
  • Separation of Powers (Specialized Roles): A well-functioning brokerage, like a well-structured government, benefits from a clear division of labor. Agents focus on client relationships and sales, marketing teams handle promotion, and transaction coordinators manage the complex paperwork. This separation of powers ensures efficiency and accountability. Recruiters, take note: understanding these distinct roles is vital for finding the perfect fit for your team.
  • Checks and Balances (Oversight & Compliance): In real estate, checks and balances are crucial for ethical and legal operations. This means thorough disclosures, independent appraisals, and meticulous legal reviews. Broker owners are responsible for implementing these checks and ensuring agents adhere to them, protecting both the brokerage and its clients.
  • Republicanism (Client Representation): Real estate agents act as representatives for their clients, negotiating offers, navigating inspections, and advocating for their best interests. This representative function is the cornerstone of the agent-client relationship.
  • Faction (Navigating HOAs): Madison’s concerns about factions are highly relevant to real estate. Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) are essentially factions with specific interests and rules. Agents working in communities with HOAs need to understand how these groups function and how to effectively navigate their influence.

John Stuart Mill: Liberty, Representation, and the Pursuit of Homeownership

John Stuart Mill’s writings on liberty, representative government, and utilitarianism offer a different but equally valuable perspective for real estate professionals:

  • On Liberty (Client Autonomy): Mill’s emphasis on individual liberty translates directly to respecting client autonomy. Agents should empower clients with information and guidance, but ultimately, the decision rests with the client. This principle also applies to the brokerage’s relationship with its agents, allowing them freedom in their business practices within ethical and legal boundaries.
  • Harm Principle (Ethical Imperative): The harm principle is non-negotiable in real estate. Agents must avoid any actions that could harm their clients, whether through misrepresentation, negligence, or unethical behavior. Broker owners have a crucial role in establishing and enforcing ethical standards within their brokerage.
  • Tyranny of the Majority (Fair Housing Practices): Mill’s warning against the tyranny of the majority is a powerful reminder of the importance of fair housing practices. Agents and brokers have a legal and ethical obligation to treat all clients equally, regardless of race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics.
  • Representative Government (Client Advocacy): As mentioned before, agents act as representatives for their clients. Mill’s work reinforces the importance of this role and the need for agents to be strong advocates, negotiating effectively and protecting their clients’ interests.
  • Utilitarianism (Maximizing Client Satisfaction): While “happiness” is subjective, the principle of maximizing positive outcomes is central to real estate. Agents should strive to help clients achieve their real estate goals, whether it’s finding the perfect family home or securing a profitable investment. For brokers, this translates to creating a supportive environment for agents, leading to job satisfaction and ultimately, better client service.

Bridging the Gap: From Philosophy to Practice

These philosophical concepts might seem abstract, but they have concrete applications in the real estate world. By understanding and applying these principles, real estate professionals can:

  • Agents: Build stronger client relationships based on trust, transparency, and ethical practices.
  • Recruiters: Attract and retain top talent by emphasizing a supportive and ethical work environment.
  • Broker Owners: Create thriving brokerages by fostering a culture of compliance, innovation, and client-centricity.

By embracing the wisdom of these classic thinkers, real estate professionals can elevate their practice, better serve their clients, and contribute to a more ethical and equitable housing market.

What's Possible?
What’s Possible?

The Power of Grit: Why Passion and Perseverance Matter More Than You Think

Mark Johnson Leave a comment

Angela Duckworth’s book, “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,” has sparked a revolution in how we think about success. It argues that talent isn’t the sole predictor of achievement; in fact, grit – that potent combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals – plays a far more significant role.

Think about it. How many times have you seen someone incredibly talented fall by the wayside, while someone else, perhaps less naturally gifted, achieves remarkable things? Duckworth’s research suggests that grit is the key differentiator.

So, what exactly is grit? Imagine you have a huge, audacious goal. Something that will take years of dedicated effort. Grit is what fuels you on that journey, even when the road gets bumpy, boring, or downright discouraging.

It’s a two-part equation:

  • Passion: This isn’t just a fleeting interest. It’s a deep, abiding love for what you do. It’s finding something meaningful that truly captivates you. This passion provides the intrinsic motivation to keep going when the going gets tough. It’s the “why” behind your “what.”

  • Perseverance: This is the resilience, the stick-to-it-ness. It’s the ability to bounce back from setbacks, to push through plateaus, and to keep working even when you feel like giving up. Perseverance is about discipline, about showing up even when you don’t feel like it.

Grit isn’t about being the smartest or the most naturally gifted. It’s about having a long-term vision and the unwavering determination to make it a reality, regardless of the obstacles in your path. It’s about falling in love with something and sticking with it through thick and thin.

Think of a marathon runner. They aren’t just running for the finish line; they’re driven by something deeper. Perhaps it’s the challenge, the sense of accomplishment, or the sheer joy of running. And when they hit mile 20, exhausted and in pain, it’s their grit that keeps them moving forward.

Duckworth emphasizes that grit isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you can cultivate. She suggests strategies like finding your passion, practicing deliberately, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and surrounding yourself with gritty people.

In a world obsessed with instant gratification, grit offers a powerful reminder that lasting success requires sustained effort and unwavering commitment. It reminds us that passion and perseverance, when combined, can unlock our true potential and help us achieve extraordinary things. So, what are you passionate about?

Are you ready to embrace the power of grit?

It's Not Over Until You Win
It’s Not Over Until You Win