Through a devastating loss, I remembered a valuable lesson.
What do love and loss have to do with becoming a successful real estate broker?
I am often asked how I went from a career as a psychotherapist to becoming a top producing realtor helping people buy and sell homes.
I chose the psychotherapy profession because I grew up believing that making a difference in the world was what I was here to do. I was confident that I could make that happen through my passion for helping others get from where they were, to where they wanted to be.
Running a successful psychotherapy and organizational effectiveness practice is challenging, requiring a high level of emotional investment balanced with objective analysis and empathy. Fortunately, for much of this time, I had a mentor and dear friend helping me grow personally and professionally. When I realized that the passion I’d had for my work as a therapist was diminishing, Cherie’s support and encouragement were instrumental in helping me pursue a different path to reinvigorate my mind and soul. Becoming a realtor promised to be a new, exciting and interesting way to help people get from where they were to where they wanted to be, allowing me to continue to make a difference.
The transition wasn’t an easy one and Cherie proved to be one of my most enthusiastic cheerleaders. When my confidence in making such a significant change faltered, Cherie was the person who reminded me that I had what it took. She had a faith in me that I sometimes didn’t have in myself and I truly would not be where I am in so many aspects of my life, without her wisdom, support and love.
A few years into my new career, I received some devastating news. My friend and mentor had cancer and only a handful of months to live. My time with this beautiful woman who meant so much to me – who was a model of compassion, professionalism, insight – was limited, and I would spend as much of that time as I could being there for her. I was blessed to be able to spend time with her and her wonderful children through her final days.
While losing Cherie was devastating, it helped me renew my commitment to be everything she was – supportive, encouraging, inspiring, wise. And to bring those gifts into my work making sure that the values Cherie and I shared are at the heart of everything I do. I realized that having people around me that I trust and who share similar values is one of the essential keys to success. It is what led me to start my own brokerage, creating a team of agents who are as committed as I am to having a positive impact on individuals and our community. It is also what led my husband Craig to join our company as a partner following his retirement from the City of Chandler. We have both spent most of our lives committing 100% to everything we do, whether it has been balancing a full day at work with inevitable family drama, or dealing with complicated contracts and client needs. No matter what, we are there – for each other, for our family (including our four dogs), for our friends and for our clients.
I have been a licensed REALTOR® since 2013. When I am not working, I enjoy reading, traveling, hiking, knitting, and connecting with others. I also enjoy being engaged with the community and participating in local events whenever I can. My favorite part of being a REALTOR® is delivering my clients their dreams through real estate.
No matter if you are buying or selling a home, it is a big deal. A lot of times, it is the biggest investment you will make in your life. That is why I take the holistic approach toward real estate. A big part of my job is getting to know you and figuring out specifically what works for you. Whether that means you prefer texting, a certain neighborhood, or regular updates, I tailor my service to make your life easier. I have spent my life connecting with others including two decades as a psychotherapist. Due to my background, communication is my expertise and I know how to read the between the lines in negotiations. Throughout the transaction and beyond, you are my priority. What I care about most is making a difference in this world and that means helping you. Even after the sale is over, I will continue to be there to help you whenever you need me as your lifelong REALTOR®.
Sincerely,
Sharyn Younger Craig Younger
Broker-Owner REALTOR®
