“I don’t think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday.”
That is one of my favorite quotations by President Abraham Lincoln. And I share his sentiment wholeheartedly. Self-improvement, professionally and personally, is both a privilege and an obligation. I look forward to learning something new every day and I am thankful when it happens. At the same time, I pity the poor souls who are content to stop learning; they are denying themselves and those around them the opportunity for a richer, more rewarding life.
That’s a long-winded lead-in to share with you that I am about to burst with anticipation of an upcoming learning experience. In about a week I will be in New Orleans for the 2012 Century 21 Global Conference! I’ve attended this event in other cities over the years and I always come away amazed at what I have learned, and energized about coming back to Hernando County to share my new-found knowledge with customers who are selling or buying homes.
The four-day conference is chock-full of lectures, workshops and training classes that help Century 21 REALTORs® like me do an even better job of assisting our customers.
I’m still researching which sessions I will attend, but it appears my biggest challenge in New Orleans is how to be in two meeting rooms at once! Fortunately, THE Gail Spada TEAM Buyer Specialist Tina Schneegas is accompanying me on this trip. We’ll be able to cover twice as much ground at the Morial Convention Center, and then compare notes when we return to share what we have learned with our TEAM colleagues who will be holding down the fort in our Spring Hill office, Nancy Brunette, Joy Mullen, Amanda Bestmann and Phyllis Burroughs.
And the opportunity to network with peers and exchange ideas is absolutely invaluable. Knowing real estate professionals in other markets is essential to helping our customers. I probably should tote an extra carry-on bag just to bring home all the business cards and brochures I will collect!
I have to confess I am SO looking forward to my first trip to New Orleans! Although I don’t expect I’ll have a great deal of free time to explore this historic city, I have collected a list of “must-see” recommendations from my friends, colleagues and customers who have enjoyed visiting there. I can’t wait to soak in the architecture, food, culture and — most of all — the legendary charm and hospitality of people in the Crescent City.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for a few photos of us learning and laughing in New Orleans. Until then, I am taking President Lincoln’s advice to always continue my education. Today’s lesson is in French:
“Laissez les bons temps rouler!” (Let the good times roll!)
