I am feeling the effects of the daylight saving clock change. I am so sensitive to pretty much everything, even little things like this effect me. My name, “Adina” is a word in Hebrew; the meaning is sensitive or gentle. I always make a joke out. Why didn’t my parents call me something that means strong and tough or ”Nothing bothers her”, ha! Oh well. Although I didn’t physically go to the office this weekend (a luxury I started affording myself about a year ago, in part because I grew my staff and it was unnecessary for me to be their 7 days when I started to pay salaries to people to assist me, but also in part for just plain sanity.) I know we were busy. We didn’t get any apartment applications though, which is always something that bothers me. Generally speaking, it’s not THAT strange, as the month just started and most people are looking for April 1st. A lot of people will take at least another weekend to look around before making their decision, and right now there is certainly a lot to look at. So I will take some deep breaths this Monday morning and try not to worry too much. Worry is, of course, part of commission syndrome. When is your next deal coming? You worry and worry…

I do all sorts of things to distract myself from worry, since worrying isn’t’ helpful at all. I network, which always lifts my spirits. It’s very good to reach out and make relationships with other business owners and independent contractors that go through the same types of things you do on a daily basis. I like having the support of friends in this business and similar types of businesses. The socializing I do definitely helps on many levels. And, I help them too. It’s a nice feeling to have a support system of peers.

My diet and exercise routine also helps combat worry. Before I made exercising a regular part of my schedule, I was much less stable, much more on edge, much less calm in moments of anxiety and stress. I dare to say it is a must. You have to take care of yourself. Whether it’s running and weight lifting (my choice) or yoga and Pilates, or walking outside along the river - do something for your soul. You need your soul to be fit and healthy and happy to run a fit, healthy and happy business. Trust me.

The two go hand and hand.

I have an opportunity to sign up another exclusive rental building in Brooklyn. This one is in on Avenue S near Ocean Parkway. The Owners gave it a “W-Hotel Vibe” renovation in the lobby, in the apartments and are looking for an exclusive broker to appeal to a younger crowd. I know I am a good fit for that concept. But Avenue S?

I grabbed Luna yesterday morning and met Marc, a very enthusiastic commercial Real Estate broker who referred me to these Landlords. He showed me around and even toured me around the neighborhood. Well, I’ve got the right name for this neighborhood. But this is pretty far off from where my focus has been so far. I expect to be signing that exclusive for the Cobble Hill building today- I kind of wanted to see how that goes before venturing off further into Brooklyn. But then opportunity knocks once again. Do I open the door?

I told Marc I would sleep on it.

This morning I woke up, and I had an email from Marc reminding me to make a decision on Avenue S. I wrote back and I said, “Marc, what is your feeling if I fail?” I asked Marc this because he refers me to his contacts, and I would rather be upfront about my concerns. I am always very honest with the people I do business with. When I sit down with the Owners of the Avenue S building, I will even be honest with about it. It’s called managing their expectations. And it’s called starting off a relationship on the right foot. This will be a whole different animal for me to learn and I want them to know that. It’s possible that while learning, I will learn, it’s not a market I can be effective in. So I asked Marc his feeling on, “What if I fail?” and he wrote back

“How else do you learn anything, especially on your own?”

And for that lovely piece of insight, from the girl who is always giving insight, I thank you Marc. Because you’re absolutely right. Let’s hope that Avenue S will turn out to be nicknamed Avenue S for success at my office.

And there you have my decision. Let’s go for it. I will meet with the Owners and if they appreciate my honesty; I am willing to give it my best shot.