The National Basketball Association playoffs are underway and consequently the stars of the league are conducting more interviews during this time of the season than any other. Last night I saw one with all-world Los Angeles Laker player Kobe Bryant. It was a fairly long interview as he entertained questions by the ever engaging ESPN sportscaster Hanah Storm.
The Impression
Bryant said something during the interview that I found to be of particular interest. When asked about his passion and drive to improve his play, he responded that he never considered the time that he put into practice to be work. To paraphrase the superstar, Bryant commented, “I enjoy doing it so much that it wasn’t until I was older that I realized that it was work.”
My Parallel Experience
I can remember having the same thoughts about real estate. I recall one particular Easter Sunday in late April. I was at my grandmother’s house after she served one of her patented great Italian meals. I sat back on the couch simply relaxing and it dawned on me. It was the first day of the year that I wasn’t working – including weekends.
The Thrill
The thrill of the deal was all I needed. Following up on leads, providing potential clients with what they needed to make prudent decisions, matching buyers to the near perfect home for them and procurring the highest price for seller clients. It was all so exhilirating.
Perspective
Although I have many more responsibilities now, after the Bryant interview I realized that not much has changed. The elixir that’s provided by all of the above remains. Over the years, as one executes certain activities many times over, it’s easy to take them for granted. It’s tantamount to our feelings about the people in our lives. We don’t realize how important they are until we lose them.
Think about that the next time you find yourself bemoaning the fact that you are so busy. It’s merely a manifestation of all the enjoyment that you experienced while building your career. Your career is forever changing and growing, and that’s a good thing. Remember what it was to you when you began in the business. The very thing that has added to your longevity. This is play not work….
What were some of your experiences at the very beginning of your career?
Has the passion and excitement dissipated or is it still there simply neglected?
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