No Time Like the Present

Everyone wants to know what the future holds, especially when it comes to the economy and the housing market.  It seems that we are desperate to avoid another recession like we experienced ten years ago. Turn on the news and they are trying to predict economic cycles down to the month, or even day, it seems.  As much as we complain about the news, we’re all too similar in our constant desire to anticipate the future of our own lives. 

Recently I listened to an interesting podcast that Brian Buffini, mainly a real estate coach, put online for free for his listeners.  The Brian Buffini Show brings professionals from different industries in for an interview to help real estate agents and others grow in their skills and professions.  

Anyway, Chris Voss, who worked for the FBI as a lead kidnapping negotiator for two decades, had some great insight to share at the end of the show.  Brian asked him, “What one talent or gift do you wish you possessed that you currently don’t?”  Chris’ answer was that he wished that he was, “better at being completely in the moment.”  

Wow.  Chris’ comments really hit home to me because I’m a planner to the core.  I want everything to go a certain way, especially when it comes to finances, and I’ll work hard to make sure it does.  My planning and desire for stuff in my future (bigger house, more land, nicer car, new tractor, etc.) is making me miss out on some of the “little moments” as Brad Paisley sings.
Life isn’t about everything going our way or always planning every step to that next big thing.  Staying mindful of the future, while not allowing it to be our only focus, can help us live in the moment, enjoying and being thankful for what we have. 

For instance, buying a house right now is a phenomenal idea – IF it’s the right price, the right terms, and you’re financially sound.  Interest rates are great, people have improved their houses overall, and the economy is chugging along with economic indicators that it will continue for some time.  And here’s what you won’t hear many real estate agents say….renting isn’t always a bad idea!
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In the end, having more stuff means nothing if you’re always working to pay it off.  Thinking rationally, making a budget, and having a rainy-day fund can help you be content and live a little more in the moment each day.
~Chris Sites