What's the difference between yourself and an Olympic athlete? An Olympian has a commitment, they have coaches, and they are coachable.

Michael Phelps made a commitment to swim every day for six straight years before you ever heard his name. Christmas, birthdays, graduations; he was in the pool. Have you made this type of commitment to lead generate daily and succeed?

Do you have a coach, and are they holding you accountable? Is there a consequence if you fail to keep your commitments? Are you coachable? Most real estate agents aren't. Newer agents think the vocabulary they learned for the real estate exam will help them secure listings and sales. Some older agents think they know it all.

If you want to know more about coaching, look for the WeSERV class "Why Hire a Real Estate Coach" on Friday, October 7. get class info

Professional development is a process that has little to do with attending mandatory continuing education classes. Have you earned the GRI, CRS, ABR, or other NAR designations or certifications? Are you attending a monthly mastermind group? Do you have a mentor? Do you read every day? Do you listen to great podcasts like Darren Hardy's 'Darren Daily' or Steve Trang's 'Real Estate Disruptors'?

Do you attend any Women's Council of REALTORS®, Young Professionals Network, Arizona REALTORS®, and National Association of REALTORS® seminars and conferences? Did you attend the CRS Sell-A-Bration in Phoenix earlier this year, or plan to attend this event in Atlanta next year? Did you apply for the WeSERV Leadership Program? Do you serve on a WeSERV committee? Did you contribute your "fair share" to RAPAC?

Professional development never ends. But, it begins when your clients and peers refer to you as a professional. So, find the opportunities and challenge yourself to continue your professional development commitment.

Paul Pastore, Professional Development Chairperson
REALTOR® Emeritus, Infinity & Associates Real Estate