A few days ago I was installed as 2023 president of Greater Chattanooga Realtors by my friend and fellow Realtor Steve Champion. After he made his very kind remarks about me, I had the opportunity to take my place amongst all the former presidents of our association.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with so much collective knowledge and leadership was truly humbling. I am thrilled to assume this position, being elected by my peers in real estate. Over the years, I’ve learned that any time you assume a new position it’s a great opportunity to set your sights on what you hope to achieve.
For example, Derek English, 2023 Immediate Past President, set a great example to all in a position of leadership at our association.
During his tenure as president, he kept us focused and moving forward. Listening to his recap of 2022 certainly drove home all the goals that he and others accomplished including supporting Wreaths Across Chattanooga, our Scholarship Program, and providing numerous services to our Realtors at no additional charge that help with their business and safety.
Now that I have been installed as President of Greater Chattanooga Realtors, it’s my turn to serve the home buying and selling needs of our community. So what’s my plan? Well, I’ve learned that sometimes the most important part of accomplishing a particular goal is simply to show up. Does this mean that you show up and let someone else do all the work? Certainly not. To me, “showing up” means putting in the time, day in and day out. It means being present.
And this doesn’t just apply to real estate. It applies to your family and friends. It means that when you’re spending time with your family, you’re there in the moment with them. You’re not distracted. It means that when you work with clients and customers that you’re present to what their needs are. This mentality has ramifications in any kind of work one might do, whether you’re in real estate, teaching, or healthcare.
One such example is that our association recently laid out a goal of helping drive conversations with our local officials. As Realtors, we have a unique perspective on our community, and we often have data that can help drive decisions that might have intended and unintended consequences. Greater Chattanooga Realtors will strive to help make decisions, write policies, and execute plans that will shape our business and our area for years to come.
Regardless of a person’s profession, each of us are blessed with a variety of skills and talents. When people don’t show up with all their gifts, talents, ideas and efforts, the world is a worse place. So, for everyone in your life, show up.
My vow for 2023 is to show up for my clients, my friends and family, and the 2,700+ realtors who serve this great city and community every day. I challenge all who might be reading these words to do the same. Realtors show up and show out every day.