Issue Date: December 28, 2007

This year, write it down

By Jody Zink
Licensed Realtor in Ohio & Michigan

Another new year, another new list. But this time it's different. I'm writing it down and I really mean it. Experts say writing things down helps you to achieve your goals. So here goes.

I have three simple objectives for 2008. I resolve to lose a little weight, be more knowledgeable, efficient and productive for my real estate clients, and be a better person.

Health-wise, I'm going to eat more fruits and vegetables. I vow to drink more water and walk my real estate beat at least twice a week.

To do a better job for my clients, I'm going to use all the tools at my disposal. Translation: I'll be more high-tech this year. In '08, I'm going paperless. Okay, maybe not completely paperless, but pretty close. I'm doing most everything electronically nowadays: my calendar, my to-do lists, and maybe even all real estate contracts by year's end.

I'm listening to more podcasts these days, too. These Internet audio programs cover an almost unlimited range of topics and are easily downloaded to my iPod so I can listen while walking (with my water bottle) my real estate beat. I'll be a picture of productivity in '08. Just you wait. In fact, by the time most people know what podcasts ARE, I'll have done one of my very own. (Since it's in writing, I'll have to do it now.)

I've learned a lot from podcasts: everything from the latest real estate trends and tips, to Andy Rooney's take on things. I've even learned how to back up my hard drive.

More on the Be a Better Person part. I'd like to think I'm a *pretty* good person, but we all could stand some improvement, particularly on the road. Since I'm already a good driver, I'm going to do better at having a clean car. After all, Realtors are always supposed to have a clean car. I've already bought a stash of car wash gift cards from Costco to have on hand and cleaned out the candy wrappers from under the driver's seat.

So those are my resolutions. In writing and published for the world to see. And this new year, I mean it.

Jody Zink is a licensed REALTOR in Ohio and Michigan with the Loss Realty Group. Her column appears every other week in the Toledo Free Press. She can be reached at jody@jodyzinkrealtor.com or 419-725-1881.