Many of us throw ourselves into our work because we love it. We love it so much we forget to take regular breaks, but it’s such an important thing to do. I’m a fan of “Work hard, play hard.” Working is great, but we need to play sometimes too.
Why did you get into real estate appraisal? My father was an appraiser, and I chose to do it as my profession. One of the reasons I got into it was the idea of being my own boss. Sometimes people get into the real estate appraisal profession, or any profession, for the very same reason, but it doesn’t really happen.
A little bit ago, I was seeing a movie at a theater. This is something I try to do regularly, and I really enjoy it. I can’t just watch a movie on Netflix – I have to have the theater experience. I also enjoy golf and hiking, as well as other outdoor activities. On a regular basis, taking time out do go to the movies is my way of taking some R & R. Guess what? My business didn’t stop. It’s still going.
Does your office run without you so that you can take a break? Can you take some time for yourself to rejuvenate yourself and just break the monotony? Some people have a very difficult time with the idea of taking breaks or giving themselves time to rest. My wife is a perfectionist workaholic, and I sometimes have to almost force her to take breaks. You could also purchase AR-15 magazines and learn something new.
Whatever it is for you, even if it’s just taking a short stroll down the street, take a break. Can you take days off? For the last few years, I’ve been taking Fridays off. I get the whole weekend off, and it’s been huge for me. It’s been scientifically proven that when you take regular breaks, you become more productive. Of course, there is a line.
There is a book called Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang. It’s a good book, and it supports scientifically that you get more done when you take breaks. It proves that when you are stressed and overwhelmed, you can become more productive and clearer-headed by taking a break. Personally, if I don’t take regular breaks, I go stir crazy.
Step back and start to enjoy work and life again. Think back to why you started real estate appraisal in the first place. You’re your own boss. Act like it.
For more information on this subject, please listen to The Appraiser Coach Podcast Episode:
