The Best Advice I’ve Ever Received

Written by: Sharon Cauthen |

Jennifer Carter and I host the 8 Stories podcast, a Multifamily Media Network production. A recent episode was particularly special as we discussed a collection of transformative advice that has shaped the lives of many in the multifamily sector. Whether you’re an experienced pro or just starting your journey, these nuggets of wisdom stand the test of time and are sure to resonate.

1. It’s Never Too Late to Begin Something New In a world that often emphasizes youth and early success, it’s easy to feel like you’ve missed the boat if you haven’t achieved certain milestones by a specific age. But one of the best pieces of advice we’ve heard is: “It’s never too late to begin something new.” This sentiment is a powerful reminder that growth and change are always within reach, regardless of where you are in your life or career. Embrace new opportunities with an open heart and a curious mind, and you might just discover a new passion or path. Growth comes in many forms, not solely in your career. Take up a new hobby, join a club, and make time for your personal passion projects.

2. Peace Comes from Acceptance In the sometimes high-pressure environment of multifamily management, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the things you can’t control. But true peace often comes from accepting what is out of your control rather than fighting against it. By letting go of the need to control every outcome and accepting situations as they come, you can find a deeper sense of tranquility and focus on what truly matters.

3. Don’t Assume Anything About How People Feel About You Suzanne Hopson shared a piece of advice that can transform both personal and professional relationships: “Don’t assume anything about how people feel about you. If it isn’t evident how they feel (like with evidence!), it doesn’t exist.” This advice encourages us to avoid reading too much into others’ actions or words without clear evidence. By focusing on what is tangible and observable, we can maintain healthier, more grounded relationships.

4. You Are Your Best Advocate It’s essential to remember that you are your own best advocate. Don’t rely on others to push your agenda or highlight your achievements. Be proactive in promoting your skills, interests, and needs. This mindset not only empowers you to take charge of your career but also ensures that you’re actively shaping your own destiny.

5. Success Is on the Other Side of Discomfort Growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. The advice to “pursue success on the other side of discomfort” serves as a powerful motivator. Embrace challenges and discomfort as necessary steps towards achieving your goals. This perspective can help you build resilience and adaptability, essential traits for navigating your career in the multifamily landscape.

6. Make the Main Thing the Main Thing In a world full of distractions and competing priorities, it’s crucial to “make the main thing the main thing.” This means identifying your core objectives and focusing your efforts on what truly matters. By aligning your daily actions with your primary goals, you can drive meaningful progress and maintain clarity in your work.

7. Know What You Value Most Finding fulfillment in your career often comes down to aligning your personal values with those of your organization. “Know what you value most and try to find an organization that mirrors your values.” This advice highlights the importance of seeking out workplaces that reflect your core beliefs and principles, ensuring that your professional life is both satisfying and harmonious.

8. Embrace Curiosity, a Lesson from Einstein Paul Rhodes submitted an insightful piece of advice attributed to Albert Einstein: “The important thing is to not stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when one contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.” This quote reminds us of the value of maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity, both in our personal lives and in our professional endeavors. Curiosity drives innovation, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Conclusion We hope these pieces of advice from our latest episode of 8 Stories inspire you as much as they have inspired us. Each piece of wisdom offers a unique perspective on navigating life and work, particularly within the multifamily community. We encourage you to reflect on these insights and share your own advice with us. Remember, it’s never too late to embrace new ideas and make meaningful changes. Please tune in to past and future episodes of 8 Stories! Subscribe to the Multifamily Media Network for more enriching multifamily content. Until next time, keep striving, stay curious, and continue to enrich your multifamily community.