Post #3 - Business or just Busy-ness?

Investors,

Sometimes, you need a little push or a strong punch in the face to get going.  This past week, it seems like I have been learning a lot and making several small action steps (listening to REI books/podcasts during my commute) but I haven't tackled a really big task (talking to sellers & finding deals).  Lately, I keep asking myself "Am I doing my due diligence with these small tasks or am I just stalling and not taking true action steps?" 

Here's what last week looked like in my REI journey:

• Started reading Cashflow Quadrant by Kiyosaki
• Called some real estate agents to get MLS screens in place
• Called local banks to learn financing options for rental properties
• Called insurance agents for ballpark quotes on my niche properties for analyzing deals
• Posted an "I Buy Houses" Craig's List ad
• Setup a call redirection and automated answer system 

This seems like a lot of good stuff to get out of the way but it feels like I'm spending a lot of time watching the clouds and no time planting the seeds.

I think I got just what I needed yesterday.  A friend told our REI group message about his experience reaching out to local REIA leaders.  One thing was leading to another and shortly he was talking to 3 self-made millionaires.  They were more than willing to share their stories and help him with any questions he had.  Being a serious competitor, this hit the spot. 

I'm very happy for my friend and now I know it can happen.  It's one thing to jump into a forum thread and ask advice from total strangers but it's quite another to hear from your buddy that he's trying something and progress is happening.  This thing actually works.  I know if he can do it, I can do it.

So, this week, I'm DOing it.  I'm taking some direct actions regarding finding the deal.  I'm going to list them here too so I'll have some forced accountability.

• Analyze 30 deals
• Call 15 potential sellers
• Send 10 handwritten letters to my most promising
• Drive for Dollars for 2 hours on Saturday

There it is.  I feel a tad better already and a bit jittery.  If you catch yourself "missing the forest for the trees" or have some good REAL action steps you are taking, let me know in the comments.

Trent