That’s Ayn Rand, from Atlas Shrugged. I love that quotation and I love this holiday, second only to Independence Day. I’m working today, because that’s what I do, but I’m celebrating, too, because I have worked so hard and so well.
Here’s to the dogs — to the people who write, comment and read here. Living anywhere near my world can be a disquieting thing, I know, but I hope you never doubt my gratitude.
And here’s to another year of hard work — and to the Splendor that comes from working wisely and well.
Brian Brady says:
I don’t know about disquieting but it’s always interesting….and fun. Happy Thanksgiving to you and Cathy, Greg.
November 25, 2010 — 1:22 pm
Brad Coy says:
Cheers Greg! Much gratitude to you for your work here and to everyone in this place I’ve come to know as friends.
Happy Thanksgiving!
November 25, 2010 — 2:31 pm
Jim Whatley says:
It’s Real Estate, It not work, it a way of life. work is what what others do, they get a job and go to work.
November 25, 2010 — 9:01 pm
Greg Swann says:
> It’s Real Estate, It not work, it a way of life.
Good point. What course have you set for yourself for tomorrow?
November 25, 2010 — 10:06 pm
Jim Lee says:
You might enjoy the video about the Pilgrims. They didn’t get off to such a great start but got smart pretty quick.
November 25, 2010 — 9:59 pm
Brad Coy says:
I’ve rarely looked at the term ‘work’ as being something disparaging. To the contrary, of course. Though I had a conversation with someone tonight during Thanksgiving dinner who would challenge the idea entirely. A matter of perpective I suppose.
November 25, 2010 — 11:01 pm
Greg Swann says:
> I’ve rarely looked at the term ‘work’ as being something disparaging.
Nor I. It’s a funny word in the modern world, though. People say things like, “Too much like work.” I’ve never felt that way. I’ve been very seriously joyous about work since I was very young, and it’s always been my favorite thing to do with my time.
November 26, 2010 — 6:28 am
Teri Lussier says:
Disquieting- I agree with that, but for whatever reason, I grow faster and stronger from disquiet. When I’m shaken do I stir.
One o’clock Thanksgiving Day a client emailed with the details of an offer they want to make today. Working holidays kind of rock.
Here’s to a productive weekend and holiday season, Greg!
November 26, 2010 — 5:10 am
Greg Swann says:
> Working holidays kind of rock.
I did analysis work for two investors yesterday and then looked at 13 houses for a third. I’m showing this morning, and, cross your fingers, writing a contract this afternoon. Showing again tomorrow. Working is good just by itself — since this is how I get paid! — but the more I work, the better I get at working, so today’s productivity turns into tomorrow’s productivity gains.
I should write this as a post, but this is what there is for now: I find Splendor when I focus on the one, not the zero. When I measure what I’m getting right, not what I’m getting wrong. When I concentrate on what I can do and not on what I can’t. When I celebrate victory, learning from but never despairing over any defeat. Any job well done is a source of pride, and pride is the stuff from which to make more Splendor.
November 26, 2010 — 6:43 am
Thomas Johnson says:
Spent Thanksgiving afternoon with family scouting neighborhoods where there are owners with equity. We had a great time as we were in the town where my wife and partner grew up. Family reminisces and future work.
November 26, 2010 — 4:21 pm
Karissa says:
Nice quote and definitely one of my favorites now. Hope the holidays went well!
November 29, 2010 — 2:24 pm
Meg Hurtado says:
Oh, Ayn Rand. Gotta love her.
November 30, 2010 — 11:36 am