Thank you Grant Schneider for hosting the Active Rain October challenge: “Time Management is NOT a Time Management Issue”. I’ve loved reading the entries and enjoy how different AR members tackle life and their business. I loved Anna Banana’s post..she is inspired and a free spirit which works for her and her energy is infectious!
We all receive the same 24 hours and some of us use them better and/or differently than others. How we utilize these hours can make a big difference in how productive our day plays out. It’s all about our mindset and how badly we want the kind of lifestyle we envision. Time actually is on our side and with proper planning we can lead a balanced life. Some view business and life in an automated way and others fly by the seat of their pants! The main thing is to take responsibility for your career, no one else is going to do it for you.
In real estate no day is ever the same but isn’t that why many of us choose to be independent contractors? However, in my opinion just because our days differ doesn’t mean we don’t operate on some kind of a schedule. One thing that is a must is to learn to adapt and be ready to roll with changes as unexpected issues and last minute important tasks pop up that need our immediate attention. I‘ve learned the 3 A’s – Anticipate, Adapt and Adjust in the world of real estate also applies to my time management skills.
Everyone is wired differently and I don’t believe there is a right or wrong way to manage time. We know ourselves better than anyone and are the CEO of our business so it’s important to figure out how we can best deal with efficiency and profitability of our business. There is no secret formula but we need to take the time to understand what we value. It’s our decision but our actions reflect our discipline and determination.
The first obstacle is to know who we are, who we want to work with and how we want to spend our time earning our business. The next hurdle is to define our business and plan our goals to achieve the type of business we are looking for and still have a life! Our business model will change with time but the one constant crucial to leading a happy fulfilled life and operating a good business is making sure we enjoy a balanced life.

I’ve learned to use my calendar and block off time for marketing, appointments with clients, my family and friends..the kids soccer games, volleyball games etc. Time blocking works best for me.


I find necessary high priority tasks will take precedence over medium and low priority items. Years of experience have given me an edge on knowing approximate timing on completing tasks. I do not chase every call or lead.
I know I need some structure and understand I need to employ someone to implement the endless paper work in real estate. I’m more selective in choosing clients who value what I do. Life is good and I love what I do. I’m not going to let any of my precious commodity of time escape!
A combination of discipline, knowing what’s important to me, employing the right person to make my life simpler and less demanding allows me to lead a balanced life…. it works for me! See you on the soccer field or volleyball court!!!
Don’t forget to visit my website: www.reloaustin.com
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Dorie Dillard is the most frequently hired REALTOR® in the Canyon Creek Subdivision. “YOUR PERFECT PARTNER”
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