Hi, I'm Mike Parikh, and I’ve been selling properties for over 30 years. But last year, I embarked on a personal challenge that was just as tough—I lost over 20 kilograms in less than a year, all after hitting the big 5-0. How did I do it? The same way I close deals: with unwavering discipline, a solid strategy, and relentless perseverance. Let me share how mastering real estate sales and personal health are more alike than you might think.
You might wonder, "How similar are losing weight and selling properties?" On the surface, they seem worlds apart, but the core principles they rely on are strikingly similar. Each requires a clear vision, meticulous planning, and the grit to stick with a plan even when the going gets tough.
Reflecting on this past year, I realise that my experience in property sales indirectly sculpted my approach to weight loss. In real estate, every day presents a new challenge; be it fluctuating market conditions or diverse client expectations, one must consistently adapt and strategise. I applied the same adaptive strategies to my diet and exercise routines, tweaking them as circumstances changed and new challenges arose.
In both arenas, I learned that progress is not always linear. Just as the market has its highs and lows, so did my weight loss journey. There were weeks where everything seemed to stall, no different than waiting for a stubborn property sale to close. But with patience and persistence, the scales began to tip in my favour, much like the satisfying conclusion of a well-negotiated property deal.
These experiences have deepened my understanding of how discipline and flexibility can lead to success, regardless of the field. Whether I'm closing deals or counting calories, the journey is all about setting realistic goals, embracing the grind, and adjusting plans as needed to meet the ever-evolving challenges. Both journeys have taught me about my own resilience and the importance of staying focused on the end goal, no matter the obstacles that come my way.
So, here I stand, more than just a bit lighter, but with a reinforced belief in the power of applying proven strategies to any area of life. It's a reminder that whether we're aiming to enhance our health or our career, the foundations of success remain constant.
The Journey Begins:
My journey into real estate began three decades ago, but it was only last year that I realised my health needed just as much attention as my career. Selling properties in Singapore's competitive market taught me the importance of adaptation and resilience—skills that I found surprisingly useful when it came to weight loss.
Setting Goals and Making Plans:
In real estate, setting clear, achievable goals is crucial. You need a vision, whether it’s for closing sales or renovating properties. Similarly, my weight loss started with a clear, measurable target: lose 10 kilograms. I planned my meals and exercise the way I would plan a property viewing schedule—meticulously and with no room for excuses.
Daily Discipline and Routine:
Just like in property sales, daily habits and routines lay the foundation for success. I swapped spontaneous eating for scheduled, balanced meals and replaced downtime with workout sessions. This disciplined approach mirrors how I handle client meetings and property listings—always prepared, always on schedule.
Adapting to Challenges:
Adaptability has been key to my real estate success. Markets change, clients’ needs evolve, and a good salesperson adjusts accordingly. Weight loss was no different. Plateaus came and went, and each required me to tweak my diet and fitness regimen, much like adjusting a sales pitch or marketing strategy.
Leveraging Expertise and Tools:
In real estate, using the right tools—like CRM software or market analysis—can make a huge difference. For weight loss, technology was also a game-changer. Fitness trackers, diet apps, and online communities kept me on track and motivated, much like how real estate networks and platforms enhance my business dealings.
In conclusion, my journey through both the realms of real estate and personal health has illuminated a fundamental truth: success in any endeavour demands not only dedication and discipline but also an adaptable mindset and a willingness to embrace change. These dual journeys have not only reshaped my physical health and professional life but have also offered profound insights into my own resilience and the universal principles of achievement. As I look forward to continuing to grow both as a professional and as an individual, I am reminded that the key to enduring success is the ability to apply the lessons learned from one area of life to another. So whether you're looking to improve your health, enhance your career, or both, remember that the principles of clarity, strategy, and perseverance will always guide you to your goals. Here's to achieving success, one disciplined step at a time.
- Mike Parikh