ALOHA FROM HAWAII!
As I write this message from the shoreline in Maui, I can hear the waves crashing against the sand and my time here has inspired me to do something a little different this month. I’m honored to inform you each month on real estate news and business growth, but I couldn’t let the opportunity to share what’s on my heart pass me by.
The simple truth is, we never know what’s in store for us tomorrow, next week, or a year from now - and this vacation has been such a meaningful reinforcement of how important it is for each of us to seize and appreciate those special moments in life. The moments where you get to slow down, unplug, and be fully present with those you love.
I’ve been reading a lot lately about the effects of stress on the typical working American, and I’m sure as you read this, you have a mental checklist of all the work you still need to get done or all the tasks waiting for you at home. The stress of these near constant demands is causing so many to struggle with concerning health issues and a disconnection from personal contentment. Add on the stress of the unexpected, such as the sudden loss of a friend or family member, and we truly have our work cut out for us when it comes to peace of mind.
Yesterday, I expressed to my wife Sarah just how crucial I felt it was for us to soak in this special time because we simply don’t know what our life will look like 5, 10, or 20 years from now. God-willing, everything will be as we hoped, we’ll have a few healthy children, and still be serving others to the best of our ability. Whatever's in store, it’s certain that through those years, we’ll have many storms to face. This month, I want to encourage you to take advantage of every "unplugged" moment and to use those moments to express your love to the special people in your life and to fortify your heart for tougher times.
While I am so grateful for my career and my amazing clients, I know work stress can be a challenge for all of us and I hope you won’t forget to give yourself breaks as you grow. Plan that trip you’ve always wanted to take or splurge on a staycation. Make an effort to unplug as often as you’re able and LIVE the life you spend your days working to fund. Slow down and take in more sunsets and sunrises, give your full attention and energy to playing with your kids, and prioritize things that make you feel fulfilled.
As the youngest of four kids, my parents worked extremely hard to provide our family with a wonderful, blessed life. My mother spent her days (and often her nights) taking care of us four kids and making sure we always had the support and mentorship we needed while my dad worked around the clock to build a successful home building and land development business. Looking back, I now realize just how difficult it must have been for them to find time to enjoy those little moments, but despite the chaos, they always made living life a priority. They made an effort to stay connected to one another and even took weekend getaways a few times a year to reconnect as a couple. Their 40-year marriage is such an amazing example of what being intentional and present can do for your relationships.
They taught me that while it’s important to work hard, it’s just as important to play hard and live without regrets. I'm so grateful to you, my amazing clients and friends, for allowing me this opportunity to see the beauty of the nature world around me and make amazing new memories with the people I love. All the laughter, wonderful conversations, and new connections have truly revitalized my spirit. I hope this article inspires you to stop and think about the memories you’re making in life. If it’s been a while since you've done something for yourself and your family, I encourage you to make the time and space for that in the near future. I extend my sincerest gratitude for helping Sarah and I experience this trip and I hope you get to come see the beauty of Hawaii for yourself someday if you haven’t had the chance yet!
Have an amazing few weeks ahead and please shoot me a reply and let me know what you’ll be doing to unplug just a little more in the next month. Even a small change or something to look forward to can make a big impact.
