Ways To Face Common Fears

Regardless of how successful we may be in our careers or personal lives, human nature means we often still have fears that may be holding us back from reaching our fullest potential. Experts agree: most people deal with fear regularly, no matter how fearless they may appear from the outside looking in.

Here, a look at some of our most common fears, and how we can face them head on for even more fulfilled lives.

• Fear of failure: Rather than thinking of all that things that could go wrong when starting something new, whether that’s a new job, a home improvement project, or a new exercise routine, as examples. Try to focus on the end goal that the new thing is bringing you closer to. The small thing is the initial fear–the larger more important thing is achieving that goal.

• Fear of change: If there’s one constant in life, it’s change. Resisting change may result in missing out on the good opportunities that come our way that can help us learn, grow and enrich our lives. Instead, when we face change head-on we can learn new skills and become better prepared to take on challenges that may come onto the horizon. Remember to appreciate the new changes and challenges you encounter.
• Fear of missing out (FOMO): FOMO is real, especially when we see our friends and family living what appears to be their best lives on social media. When FOMO strikes, rather than letting jealousy creep in, try to think about things in your life that you’re grateful for. In fact, researchers have found that a feeling of gratitude doesn’t only make us feel happier, but it's tied actually having a better life.

The Difference Between Good And Bad Debt

Being in debt certainly isn’t any fun, but did you know there’s a difference between good debt and bad debt? Taking some time to analyze your debt may bring peace of mind and steer you on the right course to finding the light at the end of the tunnel.

Student loans and home mortgages are considered good debts because they can increase earning potential and build wealth, and perhaps even significantly improve your life. These are very important to stay current on payments and be very consistent. Think long-term with good debt.

Bad debt, on the other hand, is the debt that can weigh you down, like borrowing money at a high-interest to buy a depreciating asset. What are depreciating assets? Think boats, clothes, cars and even vacations. Try to avoid these types of debt, or work to pay them off quickly by paying more than the minimum and making a payment plan you stick to. If you do need to open a credit line to, say, buy a car, shop around for the lowest interest rate so that more of your hard-earned money stays in your bank account.

Helping Aging Parents Downsize

Having the conversation about downsizing with our aging parents can be hard on several levels — not only are we accepting that they’re getting older and will eventually be unable to keep up with everything that goes along with owning a home, but they may become emotional and not want to ask for help.

When it comes time to broaching the conversation, the Family Caregiver Alliance suggests facilitating an open and honest discussion to not only go over where your parent(s) will live, but review any care they may need, finances, changes in lifestyle, and how you and other family members can make the transition as smooth as possible.

Asplans are being made, and knowing that they may be a bit fluid before being finalized, it’s time to start thinking about decluttering. In a perfect world, you could start the task six months to a year ahead of a move, taking time to slowly go through the process. To make the process easier on everyone, try to limit sorting and packing to two hours a day. Plan to go through one room at a time so you don’t overwhelm yourself or your parents.

One way to manage items you’re sorting through is to divide them into four categories: definitely save, maybe save, donate/sell/give away, or toss. Then, act on those action items. Collect important documents to be sure they’re kept together and easily accessible; think deeds, wills, birth certificates, military records and passports.

Going through a home filled with memories will take time, and patience. As you’re going through the rooms and piles with your parents, take breaks along the way to share stories and memories. After all, they kept these things for a reason and you can learn more about them through the downsizing process.

Real Estate Corner…

Q: Do I have to hire a professional stager or can I stage my home myself in order to sell it?

A: There’s no doubt that staging your home creates a great first impression, makes pictures pop on the Internet, and will boost your sales price. First, Give us a call for a Free Consultation.. You can certainly do the staging yourself if you have the time and energy. Here are the key things you should do:

• Clean the inside and the outside from top to bottom.You may just want to hire professional cleaners to do this part.
• Remove clutter, extra furniture and personal itemsso your potential buyers will “see themselves” living in your home.
• Paint the walls a neutral colorto appeal to the broadest base of buyers.

If you don’t have time and youcanafford it, hiring a professional stager is an excellent alternative. Professional stagers have inventory and can bring in furniture and decor that will make your home stand out from others on the market. Ask us for recommendations.

For more tips on staging, ask for my Free Consumer Report“ 4 Steps To Stage Your Home For A Fast Sale.” I’ll send a copy right to you.

Do you have a question related to real estate or home ownership? Please call me at 720- 463 - 0002.Perhaps I’ll feature your question in my next issue!