Last week, I had the pleasure of playing in a charity golf tournament. It was one of those great days—good weather, great friends, a bit of business talk between holes, and most importantly, all in support of a wonderful cause. Somewhere between the drives and the missed putts, I started thinking about how much the game of golf parallels the business we’re in—real estate.
A few days later, I found myself on the treadmill watching a preview of the upcoming PGA Championship. And once again, my mind wandered back to that idea. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the game, or the individual accountability, or the mental challenge, but golf has a lot to teach us about how we show up in our careers.
Especially in real estate—an industry where no two days are the same, and where your results are often a direct reflection of your mindset, your work ethic, and your integrity.
So, let me ask you a few questions. Think of them as a little scorecard for how you approach your business:
- Do you take your work seriously—like a true professional? Or is it just something you dabble in when it’s convenient?
- Will you get up at any hour, go the extra mile, and make sacrifices to win for your clients? Or does everything have to fit neatly around your schedule?
- When things don’t go your way—when a deal falls apart, a client ghosts, or a listing sits—do you make excuses, blame the market, or throw up your hands? Or do you take a breath, reset your mindset, and get back out there?
- Are you constantly learning, improving, practicing your pitch, refining your process? Or are you just “winging it” and hoping your charm carries the day?
- Are you honest to your core, even when no one knows the difference? Or do you cut corners when no one’s watching?
- Do you thrive on the competitive nature of this business, using it to fuel your growth? Or does it shake your confidence?
- When you hit a slump (and we all do), do you double down on your efforts—or check out for a while?
- When you succeed, do you stay grounded—or do you let your ego take over?
- Do you present yourself professionally, with intention and care? Or are you hoping no one notices?
The answers to these questions matter. Not just on the golf course, but in how we carry ourselves in this business. Real estate, like golf, is a long game. It rewards those who are consistent, ethical, and always working to improve. It demands patience, humility, and resilience.
I don’t usually lean into sports analogies, but this one feels like it fits. Because whether you’re lining up a putt or negotiating a deal, how you approach the game says everything about the kind of professional you are.
So, here’s my call to action: Take a moment this week to reflect on your “game.” Are you showing up with focus, grit, and professionalism? Or is it time to sharpen your swing and recommit yourself to the fundamentals?
Your clients, your colleagues, and your future self will thank you.
TERRY Talks 