A little about me...
Hello, my name is Renae. I am a 35 year old single mother of 2 children who are both on the Autism Spectrum. I am a Realtor with First Weber Group, a Writer, & an Autism/ADD advocate. Although I was diagnosed later as an adult with Fibromyalgia & ADD, I believe that I had it since I was a child (along with other health issues). Throughout my life, I have struggled with aches & pain, numbness, fatigue, sensitivities, lack of focus, short-term memory issues, concentration, "brain fog", etc. My parents, even to this day, think that it's "all in my head", and that if I just "got off my lazy butt...." I wish it were that easy & simple. I wish I could just wake up one day & things would be "normal".
Real estate has always been a dream & passion of mine; even when I was a child. I've been licensed since March 2011, after struggling through the class, not with the material. I learn things quite quickly, although I'm more of a hands-on learner. Some people with issues like mine have very unique ways of learning, and that's where we usually run into conflicts within our jobs. Most managers run their "training" session in a generalized fashion, and expect everyone to learn the same. I would love to be able to consult HR departments & those who handle training of employees/contractors. There are more people today like me then managers & companies realize. They would benefit more by working with us than against us.
I am not incapable, I am not incompetent, and I will be very successful!! But when I need help, when I have a question, those of us with issues like ADD sometimes get treated like we're beneath someone else, or that we're a bother.One of the positives to having ADD is our determination, our persistence, as well as something called "hyperfocus". When we get our mind set on something, we go 1,000% in. We will do whatever we can in order to please others, to achieve greatness, and to learn all we can. I understand we're in sales, I understand we are INDEPENDENT contractors, but everyone starts out somewhere. Those who are successful weren't always successful, and having a little compassion would be a plus. I understand that we are in sales, but we are still individuals, and learn as such.
Let me say this, I'm not asking to be treated "special", or given special treatment. I'm no better than anyone else because I have ADD. I have, on the other hand, decided to try to advocate for myself. I have approached my managers, informed them of my situation, and have asked for help. I have approached other agents, and asked to be mentored, asked for suggestions, advice, etc. I know that there will be someone willing to reach out; I know if tables were turned, I wouldn't hesitate to help others (I've done it already).
If there is anyone who works in Real Estate that can give some advice, suggestions, recommendations, or who would like to discuss this or learn more, please feel free to contact me. I have done everything from mailings, flyers, networking with mortgage bankers & attorneys. I do Open Houses when I can (I'm a single mother with a special needs son with no support). I know you have to have money to make money, and if you don't have the money, spend the time. Ummm... ok!?
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