Well now that the year is over and a lot of us are glad to put it behind us, I have been getting asked the question, “how was 2020 for you?”
All I can say is that is one loaded question. 2020 was a year that began with hopes, dreams, and big aspirations for my first official year as a real estate associate in Calgary. Then out of nowhere, COVID happened and all our lives were essentially put-on hold by the pandemic. I was deep in to strategizing and implementing my business plan to track out my new career path. I was unimaginably excited to be following my heart and my life-long passion. I was eager to finally have my opportunity to contribute to my household financially after being a stay-at-home mom raising my 2 kids for 5 years. As much as I loved being home, I was ready to take on the world. I had obtained my license, found the perfect Real Estate Brokerage (Century 21 Bamber Realty Ltd.) and the Team (Home Sweet Home Team) that was the right fit for me. I instantly felt at home with my new team and how they understood my balancing act as both a mother and a Realtor as I carved out my new career but then just like that, we were locked down……
The lock down was initially a shock, but I like to look back at it as a blessing. It gave us all a moment to slow down. We wake up already thinking about what we need to do the next day. We’re always on the go, always wanting to be doing the next task before we even start the first one. It allowed us all to just stop and re-focus. I can say that for me, I am glad we had that moment to be present in the now. I learned so much about myself and my family. I learned that I am not perfect, and it is ok not to be perfect. I learned that my kids are much smarter than I ever thought and imagined. I also learned, my husband breathes really loudly…just kidding (or am I). But seriously, this was a good moment for my husband and I to re-connect. We have been together for almost 14 years and this was a great opportunity for us to spend genuine, quality time together.
As for my brand-new real estate career, the pandemic was trying. It was mentally difficult for me to see none of my plans turning out the way I had envisioned. I thought I was failing. Did I make the wrong choice? Am I good enough? Am I strong enough? Truth be told, it was a big learning opportunity for me. I am so thankful to my team for providing me with guidance and support for those moments I felt like I wasn’t getting the results I expected. I am beyond grateful for all their training, helping me get the first sale and then the second one. As well as growing my client lists; working on my presentation skills; improving my lead calling skills and most importantly, believing in myself. What I learned is that even through a global pandemic and being in a brand- new industry, I have what it takes to make it as a realtor and survive the toughest of years.
Through and through I know I belong as a Realtor. It is something that is in my DNA to not only do but succeed at. I grew up in the industry as my dad has been a realtor since I was 7 years old, a couple of years after we moved to Canada from England. I saw the type of hard work and dedication that goes in to being successful. I saw that although it takes some time to see your hard work pay off, this resilience and perseverance will be vital later in my career. That being said, 2020, you were a serious test on many levels, but I am still here more determined than ever.
In short, reflecting on the question of “How do I think 2020 went?” It was tough, but it was a character-building year that I will be grateful for later on in my career. With the support of my family and my team behind me, I can’t wait for what this year has in store for me! Watch out 2021, I’m coming for you!