As we near the end of 2018, I like to look back and see if I accomplished everything that I set out to do this year.

I like to look at personal accomplishments, relationship accomplishments and business accomplishments.

Given that there are only 365 days in a year, it’s way too easy to see the year get away from me before I get to the things that matter.  Some years back I came across an idea that I really like that helps me make sure that I get to the important things in life.

Let me share it with you.  Head on out to your favorite office supply store and pick up one of the big desk calendars.  Next, sit down with your partner, spouse, kids or significant other and start the planning process.

The first thing to do is to mark each holiday, anniversary, birthday and significant day.  I like to draw a big X on the day in question.  Then go through and block out each vacation and/or long weekend that you want to take in the coming year.

Then go and block in your one or two days off each week.  Yes, you need days off!

These blocked days are days that are NOT available to your business!  They are your family and relationship days and need to be treated as if they were important appointments.

After that, plug in your office meeting days.  You DO need to attend your office meetings.  Doing so shows your support of your broker and colleagues. Stop grumbling and just go.

Then add in broker tour days if you have such things in your area.  If not, plug in one day a week to go see the inventory.  It’s hard to be the area expert if you don’t know the inventory!

When you are done, transfer the blocked off days into your 2019 calendar.  The calendar can be paper or electronic, whatever you choose.

At this point you will find that the only days that you have available to work are the ones that aren’t blocked off.  You may be very surprised to find that you don’t really have 365 days to earn the income that you want!

I hope that you find this to be as valuable as I have experienced!