10 Lessons I learned in 2024 - by Jonathan Broekman

As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on 2024 and the many lessons it's taught us. It's been a year of growth, challenges and achievements - all of which have left a lasting impression on me and our team at Homes of Distinction.

One of the standout moments for me is seeing how far we've come compared to 2023. I'm proud to share that we achieved more in terms of both the total value and number of transactions this year! This didn't happen by chance; it's the result of hard work, adaptability and a relentless positive attitude when it comes to focusing on improvement.

Here are some valuable takeaways from this year - lessons that I believe are worth carrying into 2025 and beyond.

1. To Grow, Get Outside Your Comfort Zone

This year, I took on a challenge that pushed me beyond my comfort zone: launching a video cast series called Living and Investing with Jonathan Broekman. At first, putting myself out there felt daunting, but I was reminded of what Roy T. Bennett said, "Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone." Growth requires discomfort - and I embraced this as an opportunity to learn and share - not just my own knowledge but the knowledge and experience from others, too.

The series has been a chance to connect with experts in business, sales and marketing - and delve into strategies and ideas that inspire success. In my most recent episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Tony Cross from Growth Matters. Together, we explored The Art and Science of Sales, uncovering insights that can drive both personal and professional growth.

If you haven't yet, I'd love for you to watch the series and join the conversation. You can find it on my YouTube channel and follow along for updates on Instagram. Let's continue learning and growing together!

2. Success Comes from Consistency

Mentoring and training have been at the heart of what we do. I've had the privilege of working closely with our team, sharing what I've learned and inviting guest mentors to do the same. These sessions aren't just about skills - they're about mindset. Staying positive, even when faced with things we can't control, has proven to be our most powerful tool.

Adaptation has also been key. The market changes, sometimes in ways we can't predict - but finding innovative ways to navigate those changes has made all the difference.

3. The Power of Communication

One thing I've stressed this year is that face-to-face communication wins...every time. Social media and messaging apps are convenient, but nothing replaces the clarity and connection of sitting down with someone and having a proper conversation.

This leads me to another lesson: making sure everyone is on the same page from the start. Setting clear expectations upfront doesn't just make life easier for you - it ensures that everyone around the table knows what's expected and delivers accordingly. It's amazing how much smoother things go when there's no ambiguity.

4. Fair vs Equal

I've also been reminded that fairness and equality aren't always the same. Sometimes, doing what's fair means treating people differently based on their needs or circumstances. It's not always easy to explain, but fairness requires looking at the bigger picture and doing what's right, even if it isn't equal.

5. Reflection Drives Improvement

At Homes of Distinction, we've developed a habit of pausing in Week 13 of each quarter to reflect. It's a chance to ask what's worked, what hasn't, and what can we tweak for the next stretch. These moments of reflection help us stay aligned and give us the insights we need to make meaningful adjustments.

I'd recommend this to anyone. Taking a step back to review doesn't just help with strategy - it keeps everyone on the same journey, pulling in the same direction. You definitely go where you look.

6. Share the Strategy

This year, I've realised how important it is to share strategy, even if only in small pieces. When the team knows where we're heading and why, they're more motivated to get there. It doesn't have to be grand or complicated - just a few key points to keep everyone focused and aligned. It also affords the chance for valuable comment.

7. The Value of Listening

There's a saying that's stayed with me this year: "When you talk, you're only repeating what you already know. But when you listen, you learn something new."

This couldn't be more true. Taking the time to listen - to clients, colleagues and even competitors - has opened doors I didn't know existed. It's amazing what you can learn when you stop to hear what others have to say. It's not for nothing that we have two ears but only one mouth!

8. If It Can't Be Measured, It Doesn't Count

In keeping with our commitment to continually improve what we do, this has been a guiding principle for me in 2024. Whether it's tracking sales, measuring client satisfaction or assessing team performance, having tangible metrics keeps us grounded. In the words of Lord Kelvin, "If you can't measure it, you can't improve it". It's easy to get lost in subjective ideas, but numbers don't lie. They show us where we are, where we're headed and what needs to change. 

9. Change Bridges the Gap

One of the most important lessons this year is about the link between where we are and where we want to be. That link is change. Without it, there's no movement, no progress, no growth. Embracing change - even when it's uncomfortable - is what helps us close the gap and reach new heights. Again, this is where the power of communication and sharing the strategy, comes to the fore.

10. Good Foundations Are Everything

Finally, I've been reminded time and again this year that success starts with strong foundations. Whether it's a solid plan, a reliable team, or a supportive network, having those pillars in place makes all the difference.

There's a reason why we build on rock and not on sand. When you start with a good base, everything you build on top of it is stronger, more stable and more likely to withstand the challenges that come your way. 

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we wrap up 2024, I'm filled with gratitude - for our team, our clients and the lessons we've learned together. The new year will bring its own set of challenges and opportunities, but I'm confident that we're ready to face them with the same determination and positivity that got us here.

I hope these reflections resonate with you too and inspire growth in your own journey. Here's to a successful, fulfilling 2025 for all of us!

Thank you for being part of this journey.

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Warm regards