Look Back. Shout Outs. High Five.

I’m doing a 5-minute celebration today since this is the one-month anniversary of The Bright Build.

And also a quick thanks to all of you who have subscribed.

Thanks for the support. And thanks for the conversation.

Seriously.

This week, I talked about Askers and Guessers and the challenge of shifting the habit of anticipating “no” from those whose help you need. Real estate development is collaborative, and so you’re always risking a “no” from someone or another. It’s not a beginner’s problem, either. As you move from project to project, you’re frequently building out your team and encountering new talents. Which means you’re negotiating. Which is the five-syllable version of a two-syllable word: asking.

I took a short poll, and 88% of you are Guessers who want to be Askers.

I feel you.

In the comments section of my last post

Ty Maier

wrote:

I dig his point about generosity and offering value to others. In my experience, most people are okay with an ask if you‘ve cultivated a relationship with them where there’s a kind of mutual reciprocity. And Ty pointing out that in his previous job, “leadership wasn’t conducive to asking” is spot on. One of the larger challenges with shifting towards entrepreneurism (if you’re a developer, you’re an entrepreneur) is shaking off whatever mindset was necessary to accomplish your PREVIOUS job. Sometimes, habits of mind you’ve practiced are useful. Other times, they’re like gum on the bottom of your shoe.

Tom G

wrote:

Bingo!

Asking makes us uncomfortable! But it’s necessary. And, man…kids. I’m always thinking about how I want to model behavior for my kids. I want them to know that they have to be generous. Empathetic. Kind. But I also want them to understand that while the world may not be your antagonist, it may, on occasion, be indifferent. Or at least not paying attention. They have to raise their hands and ask for what they need.

And get used to being told no.

If you’re new to The Bright Build, check out my first few posts on the mindset of a developer, then pop on over to my detailed advice on scouting out locations. Next week, as we get more and more hands-on with your questions and the intricacies of development, I’m going to share some of the back-of-the-napkin math I do to test a project’s viability.

Have a great weekend, folks, and thanks for the first four weeks. It’s been fun.

Peace,