Working in the real estate industry brings its fair share of stress. Crazy hours, a long list of clients with differing needs, and the ups and downs of the market is enough to give anyone anxiety. I have personally struggled with anxiety and navigating it has not always been easy. During my years in the industry, it has been a delicate dance of developing coping techniques to minimize the effects of my anxiety and keep my relationships healthy and my career thriving.

As agents, I am sure you’re familiar with all the ways the industry can create stress in daily life:

• Financial Instability or Uncertainty: Since agents typically work on commission, income can be unpredictable, and the lack of a consistent paycheck can contribute to anxiety and stress.
• Lack of work-life balance: Agents often work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.

• Dealing with Rejection: Real estate deals don’t always go through, and rejection is part of the job. Facing repeated rejection can impact an agent’s self-esteem and mental health [1].

1. Reframing Thoughts – Undue anxiety and stress can often distort my thoughts. For example, with an anxiety disorder, my thoughts can quickly jump to worse case scenarios.  Reframing my thoughts gives more control and helps combat unproductive thinking.

   Here are some steps to take to reframe my thoughts:

   • Recognize and understand my thoughts
     • What am I thinking/ feeling and why?
     • Is this my stress or mental illness talking?
   • Challenge and change my thoughts
     • Refocus on opposite thoughts/emotions
     • Refocus on positive affirmations and outlooks

        

2. Physical Activity and Healthy Eating – The body is deeply tied to the mind. Regular physical activity, staying hydrated, and eating the right foods promotes better sleep, can boost my mood, and can even nourish my brain cells helping with clarity.
3. Breathwork and Meditation – Finding moments of peace in our lives can be difficult, but it is important for both our mental and physical health. I’ve created a routine that includes meditation allowing my brain time to break from excessive thinking [³]. If throughout the day I experience episodes of stress, anxiety, or other intrusive thoughts, I use breathing exercises. My favorite exercise is to breathe in through my nose, hold my breath for a few seconds and then exhale. 
4. Self-Love – Whether you suffer from a mental health condition or are dealing with the stress that comes from working in a high-pressure industry, I’ve found a great way to combat that stress and find clarity in my life is to do something that I love. Self-love gives me perspective and helps me to get through the tough times.

While there is no secret recipe for combating stress and anxiety it’s important to find mechanisms that work well for you. When all else fails try to stay positive and always seek professional help when needed.

About Cara McKenrick

Cara McKenrick is Vice President of Business Development and Education at Anywhere Integrated Services. Her background in sales and marketing has led her to success in the real estate, scientific instrumentation, and telematics industries. Cara prides herself in delivering exceptional results through creativity, resourcefulness and a passion for change leadership.  

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The information provided on the site is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you or someone that you know are struggling with mental illness, consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.