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    Defying Gravity: A Personal Take on Perspective and Finding Your Own Green

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    I recently had the absolute pleasure of seeing Wicked, and let me tell you, it was an experience. Even though I’m color challenged (meaning I sometimes struggle to distinguish between certain shades of colors like shades of green), and I’m sure I missed some of the finer nuances of the emerald city’s green glow, the show resonated with me on a much deeper level.

    It got me thinking about perspective, defying expectations, and finding your own version of “green.”

    For those unfamiliar, Wicked tells the story of the Witches of Oz before Dorothy drops in. It explores the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch of the West,” and Glinda, the “Good Witch.” Elphaba, born with green skin, is immediately ostracized and labeled as different. Her journey is one of fighting for what she believes in, even when the world misunderstands her.

    The iconic song “Defying Gravity” perfectly encapsulates this struggle. Elphaba makes a conscious choice to rise above the limitations placed upon her, to reject the narrative that has been written for her. She chooses to fly, literally and metaphorically, defying the expectations and prejudices of those around her.

    This resonated with me on a personal level. We all have moments where we feel boxed in, where we feel like the world is trying to define us. We’re told who we should be, how we should act, and what we should believe. But like Elphaba, we have the power to defy these limitations. We can choose to rise above the noise and forge our own path.

    My own “color challenge” became a small but relevant analogy during the show. I knew green was a major theme, but I wasn’t always picking up on the subtle shifts in hue. Yet, it didn’t detract from my enjoyment. The story, the music, the performances – they transcended the literal color.

    It made me realize that sometimes we get so caught up in the details, in the “right” way of seeing things, that we miss the bigger picture.

    Elphaba’s green skin is a visual representation of her “otherness,” but her true strength lies in her character, her convictions, and her refusal to conform. Similarly, my experience with the show highlighted that the true “green” wasn’t just about the visual color, but the themes of acceptance, challenging authority, and staying true to yourself.

    Just like Elphaba chose to defy gravity, we can choose to defy the limitations placed upon us. We can choose to see the world from a different perspective, to find our own meaning, and to create our own definition of “green.”

    It’s not about fitting into someone else’s mold, but about embracing our unique qualities and flying high, even if we see the world in slightly different shades.

    Wicked reminded me that sometimes, missing some of the details can actually help us see the bigger, more important picture. And that, in itself, is a kind of magic.

    What if?
    What if?

    The Transformative Power of Elements: Water, Fire, and Wind

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    Reflecting on the recent devastation of the wildfires in Los Angeles, I was struck by the raw power of nature and the delicate balance between creation and destruction. The images of flames consuming everything in their path, the smoke-filled skies, and the subsequent efforts of firefighters battling the blaze brought into sharp focus the elemental forces that shape our world. It prompted me to consider not only the destructive potential of these elements but also their inherent power for transformation and renewal. Within these seemingly simple forces – water, fire, and wind – lie profound lessons about life, transformation, and the mysteries of existence.

    Water, the lifeblood of our planet, can be both a source of immense good and terrifying destruction. It nourishes and cleanses, bringing life to parched lands. Yet, in its fury, it can flood and drown, demonstrating a power that demands respect. This duality mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself, the balance between creation and destruction, joy and sorrow.

    Fire, too, holds this duality. It warms us, cooks our food, and provides light in the darkness. But uncontrolled, it consumes everything in its path, leaving behind only ashes. Fire represents passion, energy, and transformation. It can purify and cleanse, but also destroy and devastate. This duality reminds us of the importance of balance and control in our own lives, the need to harness our inner fire for good.

    Wind, like breath, is essential for life. It carries seeds, disperses pollen, and cleanses the air. It can be a gentle breeze or a powerful force, shaping landscapes and driving storms. Wind symbolizes the spirit, the unseen force that animates us. It reminds us of the constant change and movement in the world, the ever-present flow of life.

    Consider the power of a river carving its path through rock over millennia. The constant flow of water, a seemingly gentle force, gradually reshapes the landscape, demonstrating the transformative power of persistent action. This illustrates how even seemingly small and consistent efforts can lead to significant change over time.

    How can we use these elements to transform ourselves? By understanding their dual nature, we can learn to harness their power for good. We can embrace the cleansing power of water through reflection and self-awareness, washing away negativity and embracing renewal. We can cultivate the transformative power of fire by channeling our passions and energies into positive action, striving for growth and self-improvement. And we can connect with the life-giving force of wind by cultivating mindfulness and awareness of the present moment, allowing the spirit (our inner drive and motivation) to guide us.

    Ultimately, the mysteries of existence, like the forces of nature, are often beyond our full comprehension. They invite us to embrace the unknown, to connect with the world around us, and to find meaning and purpose in the midst of life’s complexities. Just as we cannot fully control the elements, we cannot fully grasp the vastness of the universe. But by observing, reflecting, and experiencing these forces, both natural and internal, we can find ourselves transformed.

    Control the Controllable
    Control the Controllable

    What’s the Difference? Coach vs. Mentor, Consultant vs. Counselor

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    It’s easy to get confused by the terms coach, mentor, consultant, and counselor. While they all involve helping others, their approaches and focuses are quite distinct. This article clarifies the unique functions of each.

    Coaching:

    According to the International Coach Federation, coaching is defined as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” Coaches help clients set goals, develop action plans, and overcome obstacles. The coach is the subject matter expert in coaching, not necessarily in the client’s specific area of focus. They provide support, accountability, and guidance, empowering clients to find their own solutions. Coaching is often focused on specific goals and creating actionable steps to achieve them.

    Counseling/Therapy:

    Counseling (also often referred to as therapy) focuses on emotional well-being, addressing past experiences, and helping individuals navigate mental health concerns. Counselors are trained to diagnose and assist clients with emotional problems, trauma, and dysfunction. Unlike coaching, which is future-oriented, counseling often explores the past to understand present challenges.

    Mentoring:

    A mentor is a wise and trusted guide and advisor. The mentor is someone who shares their experience to help their “mentee” grow and develop. Mentoring relationships are often long-term and focus on career development, personal growth, and providing guidance based on the mentor’s own journey. The mentor acts as a role model, sharing their wisdom and insights.

    Consulting:

    A real estate consultant is an expert who is called upon for professional or technical advice or opinions within the real estate industry. They are relied on to understand a problem, such as a developer struggling to secure financing for a new condo project, and present solutions, like connecting them with alternative lenders or advising on restructuring the project. Consulting is unlike coaching because, in pure coaching, the answers come from the client, like a real estate agent seeking to improve their sales techniques. Consultants are often hired for specific projects, such as conducting a market analysis for a proposed development, or to solve particular problems within an organization, like a brokerage firm experiencing high agent turnover. There are many types of real estate consulting, including development consulting, investment consulting, and property management consulting, among others.

    As many of you know my son and I are bikers – we’ve put in a few miles:

    The Bike Analogy:

    To further illustrate these differences, let’s use the analogy of learning to ride a bike:

    • A therapist/counselor will help you address any past traumas or anxieties that might be preventing you from even wanting to get on the bike. They’ll help you work through any emotional blocks so you feel ready to try.
    • A consultant might put you in a wind tunnel with a 100 mph wind and give you a 100-page report on the most aerodynamic and efficient way to ride, focusing on the technical aspects and optimal performance.
    • A mentor will hop on their own bike, demonstrate how to ride, then hop off and say, “Okay, do what I just did,” teaching you through direct example and shared experience.
    • A coach will have you get on the bike and head out to the track. They will bring a stopwatch and ask you to go as fast as you possibly can. Once back from the track, they will sit down with you and figure out what your ideal results are. They’ll then determine the gap between your current performance and your goals. Together, you’ll create a plan to close that gap, focusing on training, technique, and continuous improvement.

    Conclusion:

    Understanding the distinctions between coaching, counseling, mentoring, and consulting is crucial, especially for those working in helping professions. Each role offers unique benefits and caters to different needs. As a coach, being able to identify what a client truly needs will greatly impact how you support them and the value you provide.

    Need Help?

    Navigating the real estate and mortgage world can be challenging. Whether you need expert consulting to tackle a specific problem or coaching to unlock your full potential, I’m here to help. Get in touch to learn more, it’s easy – click here!

    What's Possible?
    What’s Possible?

    The Generosity Advantage

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    I’ve been diving into the work of Adam Grant lately—you know, the organizational psychologist and author from Wharton. His insights are seriously game-changing, especially as we head into 2025.

    We’re all about fresh starts and setting goals as a new year kicks off, right? But I’m starting to think that personal growth isn’t the whole story. What if the real secret to crushing it in 2025 is actually about being generous?

    Sure, being generous is a good thing, but Grant’s research shows it’s way more powerful than just a nice personality trait. It’s actually a solid strategy for success, both personally and professionally.

    He talks about three types of people in the workplace: takers, matchers, and givers.

    • Takers are all about getting ahead, even if it means stepping on others.
    • Matchers are the “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine” types.
    • But then there are givers—the ones who genuinely want to help others succeed, without expecting anything in return.

    And guess what? It’s the givers who end up on top in the long run. They’re the ones who jump in to help other teams, invest time in mentoring others, and generally focus on lifting everyone up.

    Why does this work? Because generosity builds trust and creates strong relationships. When you’re genuinely supportive of others, people want to work with you and for you. Plus, helping others shine actually boosts your own value and impact. It’s a win-win.

    Grant even said something super interesting in an interview:

    “Generosity isn’t just a sign of virtue. It’s also a mark of intelligence.”

    Turns out, people with higher IQs tend to think long-term and focus on the collective good, not just their own immediate needs.

    So, how can we bring more of this generosity into our work lives? Here are a few ideas that have been resonating with me:

    • Share your knowledge: Mentoring others or offering advice isn’t just helpful for them—it helps you grow too.
    • Celebrate wins, big and small: Be as enthusiastic about your team’s successes as you are about your own.
    • Ask genuine questions: Showing real interest in others builds authentic connections.

    Ultimately, Adam Grant’s research reminds us that success isn’t a zero-sum game. By prioritizing generosity and focusing on the success of others, we can unlock our own potential and create a more collaborative and thriving work environment.

    Some is better than none
    Some is better than none

    Dare to Be Different: Why Sometimes Doing the Opposite of the Crowd Is a Win

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    We live in a world that often emphasizes conformity. We’re encouraged to follow trends, adhere to social norms, and fit in with the crowd. But what if the real path to success and fulfillment lies in doing the opposite?

    Sometimes, going against the grain can be a powerful move. Here’s why:

    • Less competition: When you’re not following the crowd, you’re likely to encounter less competition. This can open up opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable.
    • Unique perspective: By thinking differently, you can gain a unique perspective that leads to innovative ideas and solutions.
    • Greater authenticity: When you’re not trying to be someone you’re not, you can embrace your true self and live a more authentic life.
    • Increased resilience: Going against the crowd can be challenging, but it can also build resilience and strength of character.

    Of course, doing the opposite of the crowd doesn’t mean being contrarian for the sake of it. It’s about making conscious choices that align with your values and goals, even if they deviate from the norm.

    Here are some examples of when doing the opposite can be a win:

    • Investing: While others are panicking and selling, you might see an opportunity to buy low.
    • Career choices: Instead of pursuing a popular career path, you might choose to follow your passion, even if it’s unconventional.
    • Lifestyle: You might choose to live a simpler, more minimalist lifestyle, even if it’s not what’s considered “normal.”

    Ultimately, the decision to go against the crowd is a personal one. It requires courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to take risks. But the rewards can be significant. So, the next time you find yourself following the herd, ask yourself if there might be a better path – one that leads you in the opposite direction.

     

    Fear or faith?
    Fear or faith?

    Don’t Be a Statistic: Conquering Quitter’s Day and Staying on Track

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    Ah, January. The month of fresh starts, ambitious resolutions, and… Quitter’s Day. Yes, you heard that right. There’s a day, typically around the second Friday of January, when many people give up on their New Year’s resolutions. It’s a sobering thought, but it doesn’t have to be your reality.

    Why do so many people fall off the wagon so early? Often, it boils down to a few common pitfalls:

    • Unrealistic expectations: Setting overly ambitious goals can lead to discouragement when progress isn’t immediate.
    • Lack of planning: Without a solid plan, it’s easy to get sidetracked and lose momentum.
    • Insufficient support: Going it alone can be tough. Having a support system can make all the difference.

    So, how do you avoid becoming a Quitter’s Day statistic? Here are some strategies to keep you on track:

    • Set SMART goals: Make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
    • Break it down: Divide large goals into smaller, more manageable steps.
    • Create a plan: Outline the actions you need to take and set deadlines for each step.
    • Find an accountability partner: Share your goals with someone who will support and encourage you.
    • Track your progress: Monitor your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.
    • Be flexible: Don’t be afraid to adjust your plan if needed. Life happens, and it’s important to be adaptable.
    • Focus on the why: Remind yourself of the reasons behind your goals. This will help you stay motivated when things get tough.
    • Practice self-compassion: Don’t beat yourself up if you slip up. Just pick yourself up and keep going.

    Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. By taking these steps, you can overcome the Quitter’s Day hurdle and achieve your goals.

     

    Winning Is A Habit
    Winning Is A Habit

    Mining Gold From Your Mind: The Power of Intentional Thinking

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    Napoleon Hill, the author of “Think and Grow Rich,” famously stated,

    “More gold has been mined from the thoughts of men than has ever been taken from the earth.”

    This statement underscores the immense potential that lies within our minds. By cultivating a habit of intentional and productive thinking, we can unlock a wealth of creativity, innovation, and personal growth.

    Investing in Yourself:

    Just as investing in stocks or real estate can yield significant returns, investing in the quality of your thinking is an investment in yourself. When you dedicate time and effort to improving your thought processes, you’re essentially upgrading your internal operating system.

    This leads to:

    • Improved decision-making: You make more informed and effective choices, leading to better outcomes.Increased productivity: You become more focused and efficient in your work and daily life.
    • Increased self-awareness: You become more conscious of your thought patterns, identifying limiting beliefs and negative biases.
    • Enhanced creativity: You learn to think outside the box, generating novel solutions and ideas.

    Shifting Your Perspective:

    The adage “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change” is a powerful reminder that our perceptions shape our reality. To cultivate a more positive and productive mindset, consider this:

    Exposing yourself to better input:

    • Read: Dive into books, articles, and blogs that challenge your thinking and expand your horizons.
    • Listen: Engage with podcasts, audiobooks, and insightful conversations that offer new perspectives and valuable insights.
    • Watch: Is what you consistently watch serving a purpose?

    Get exposed to good thinkers:

    • Mastermind groups: Collaborate with other individuals to share ideas, provide feedback, and learn from each other’s experiences.
    • Networking: Connect with successful individuals in your field or areas of interest to gain valuable insights and expand your professional network.

    Set a routine thinking time block:

    • Intentionality: Schedule dedicated time for focused thinking, such as journaling, brainstorming, or meditation.
    • ACT!

    Taking action:

    • Transform your thoughts into tangible actions.
      • Accept
      • Reflect
      • Redirect
    • Ideas without execution remain just that – ideas.
    • Don’t wait until you “feel like it.”
    • Override emotions
      • Discipline yourself to engage in productive thinking even when you don’t feel particularly motivated.

    Rinse and Repeat!

    Improving your thinking is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Consistently apply these strategies, and you’ll gradually cultivate a more powerful and resourceful mind.

     

    By design or by default
    By design vs. by default

    From Track to Triumph: The Collaborative Power Behind Nike

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    The story of Nike isn’t just about shoes; it’s a story about the power of mindset, game plan, skills and tools combined with some collaboration and accountability 

    Four Elements To Create Any Outcome 

    Mindset – Game Plan – Skills – Tools

    Phil Knight, a middle-distance runner at the University of Oregon, held a unique mindset that set him apart from the conventional athletic shoe industry. He firmly believed in the necessity of producing high-quality, affordable running shoes, a conviction that fueled his unwavering ambition. This belief wasn’t a solitary conviction; it was nurtured and strengthened through his collaborations with individuals who shared his vision, particularly his former track coach, Bill Bowerman.

    Knight’s game plan started with a simple yet revolutionary idea: importing running shoes from Japan. This wasn’t a solo mission; he partnered with Bowerman to establish Blue Ribbon Sports, the precursor to Nike. This partnership proved to be the cornerstone of their success, emphasizing the significance of collaboration. Their relationship went beyond mere business; they held each other accountable for their individual contributions and the company’s overall progress.

    Knight and Bowerman, each with unique skills, formed a formidable partnership. Knight, with a background in business, particularly in sales and distribution, complemented Bowerman’s innovative coaching approach. Bowerman’s relentless pursuit of enhancing athletic performance through shoe design, coupled with Knight’s business acumen, created a synergy that would have been unattainable if they had worked independently. Their partnership not only fostered a strong bond but also instilled a deep sense of accountability. Knight, responsible for overseeing business operations, ensured focus and maximized their strengths, while Bowerman dedicated to product development and innovation.

    This clear division of labor allowed them to concentrate on their respective areas of expertise, ultimately leading to their success.

    Their initial tools were humble: limited capital, a handshake agreement with Onitsuka Tiger (a Japanese shoe manufacturer), and a shared passion for running. However, their most valuable “tool” was their collaborative partnership. The accountability they maintained with each other propelled them through challenges and setbacks. They set high standards for themselves and provided mutual support and encouragement. As the company expanded, they continued to prioritize collaboration, building a team of talented designers, marketers, and engineers. This collaborative spirit extended beyond internal teams to encompass athletes and other partners. The internal accountability structure also evolved, with clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and performance metrics.

    The success of Nike isn’t solely a tale of individual brilliance; it’s a narrative about the potency of mindset, game plans, skills, and tools, all complemented by collaboration and accountability. Knight’s initial vision, coupled with Bowerman’s innovative drive, forged a formidable force. However, it was their remarkable ability to collaborate, hold each other accountable, and cultivate a collaborative culture that truly propelled Nike to become the global icon it is today..

    Read more about it: Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike.

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

     

    Navigating Today’s Real Estate Market: A Guide for Real Estate Professionals

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    Today’s real estate market presents unique challenges for buyers, sellers, and agents due to affordability concerns and market uncertainty. However, the fundamental need for housing remains constant. This summary addresses key concerns and offers strategies for success.

    Consumer Concerns:

    • Affordability: Rising interest rates and home prices strain buyer budgets.
    • Market Uncertainty: Buyers and sellers hesitate due to potential price declines and difficulty finding suitable deals.
    • Competition: Though cooling overall, competition persists in desirable areas.
    • Financial Strain: Some buyers experience financial difficulty after purchasing a home due to additional debt or unexpected costs.

    Real Estate Agent Concerns:

    • Decreased Transactions: Fewer sales impact agent income.
    • Price Negotiation: Navigating price differences between buyers and sellers is challenging.
    • Client Uncertainty: Agents must address client concerns and provide accurate market information.

    Strategies for Success:

    Education & Communication:

    • Provide up-to-date market data (e.g., Altos Research, Keeping Current Matters).
    • Educate clients on market dynamics and buying/selling strategies (leveraging resources like KCM).
    • Maintain open and proactive communication.

    Financial Guidance:

    • Connect clients with reputable lenders for mortgage options and pre-approval.
    • Offer budgeting and affordability advice.

    Strategic Marketing & Negotiation:

    • Utilize effective marketing (high-quality photos, virtual tours, targeted online advertising).
    • Enhance negotiation skills.

    Adaptability & Innovation:

    • Embrace technology for marketing, communication, and analysis.
    • Consider diversifying services (e.g., property management).

    Broker/Owner Support:

    • Provide training and resources (including a “Wealth Building Guide”).
    • Foster a supportive environment for collaboration.
    • Invest in essential marketing and technology tools.

    My Wrap up:

    Despite market uncertainty, the human element of real estate—finding a place to call home—remains paramount. By prioritizing client needs, leveraging innovation, and offering empathetic guidance, real estate professionals can help clients navigate these challenges successfully. Need help? Schedule a consultation.

    What's Possible?
    What’s Possible?

    Starve Your Distractions, Feed Your Focus: Reclaim Your Attention

    Mark Johnson Leave a comment

    In today’s hyper-connected world, it feels like we’re constantly being pulled in a thousand different directions. Social media, constant notifications, and the 24/7 news cycle create a relentless “whirlwind” of distractions, making it incredibly difficult to focus on the things that truly matter.

    As the authors of “The 4 Disciplines of Execution” aptly put it, “Executing in spite of the whirlwind means overcoming not only its powerful distraction, but also the inertia of ‘the way it’s always been done.'” 

    Could there be a formula to help you regain your focus?

    The concept of “starving your distractions” and “feeding your focus” is a powerful framework for achieving this. It’s about consciously cultivating an environment that nourishes your ability to concentrate and minimizes the impact of the things that pull you away.

    Here are a few practical tips to help you starve your distractions and feed your focus:

    Identify Your Distractions:

    •  The Digital Detox: Experiment with short periods of digital abstinence. Turn off your phone, close unnecessary tabs, and see how much more you can accomplish.
    • Time Blocking: Schedule specific times for checking emails and social media. This creates boundaries and prevents these activities from constantly interrupting your flow.
    • Mindful Observation: Pay attention to what consistently derails your concentration. Is it the constant ping of notifications? The allure of social media? The TV playing in the background?

    Create a Focus-Friendly Environment:

    • Minimize Visual Clutter: A messy desk often reflects a messy mind. Declutter your workspace to reduce visual distractions.
    • Find Your Optimal Workspace: Experiment with different locations – a quiet corner of your home, a local library, a co-working space – to find the environment that best supports your focus.
    • Optimize Your Tech: Utilize tools like “Do Not Disturb” mode, noise-canceling headphones, and focus apps to create a distraction-free zone.

    Feed Your Focus:

    • Engage in Mindful Activities: Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness exercises can help you train your attention and improve your ability to stay present.
    • Prioritize Deep Work: Schedule dedicated blocks of time for tasks that require intense concentration.
    • Break Down Large Tasks: Overwhelmed by a large project? Break it down into smaller, more manageable chunks. This makes the task seem less daunting and increases your motivation.

    Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and appreciate your progress, no matter how small. This reinforces positive behavior and motivates you to continue.

    Reclaiming your attention is an ongoing journey, not a destination. It requires consistent effort and experimentation to find what works best for you. But by consciously starving your distractions and feeding your focus, you can cultivate a more mindful and productive real estate practice.

    What are your biggest distractions?

    What strategies do you use to stay focused?

     

    What's Possible?
    What’s Possible?