Hey, hey, I hope you've had a great, great, great, great week! I’m Anna-Marie Ellison, and welcome back to Grit & Grace, my current passion project where we talk about life, balance, and real estate. I'm so glad you're here. I hope you’ve taken some time to set up your week, just like we talked about last time, preparing yourself to feel confident and treating yourself like someone who truly matters.

Let me start with a little story. I recently shared on social media that I accidentally microwaved my food scale! I was preparing my meal, and somehow, I tossed the entire food scale in with my Tupperware and set it for two minutes. A couple minutes later, I heard my son, Major, say, “Hey Mom, did you mean to put the food scale in the microwave?” Sure enough, I had! The microwave didn’t explode, and thankfully nothing caught fire, but the scariest part for me was that I had no idea I’d done it. My mind was so scattered that I didn’t even notice what was happening right in front of me.

Now, let’s talk about why I’m sharing this. It’s not about the food scale. It’s about how easy it is to miss our own warning signs when life gets busy. It’s one thing to say, “Hey, I’m juggling a lot,” but are you actually listening to your body and paying attention to those signals?

Recognizing Your Limits

Sometimes, we’re doing too much without even realizing it. And I’m not just talking about the bad stuff – I’m talking about the good stuff, too. The excitement of new routines, your kids starting back at school, maybe a new job, joining that chamber choir, or watching your child play varsity and JV sports two nights a week. None of this is bad! It’s all wonderful. But even great things can push us to our limits.

For me, one of the first signs I’m reaching my bandwidth is when I start feeling extra tired or, apparently, when I microwave things I shouldn’t! Recognizing when you’re hitting your mental and physical limits is key to staying present and enjoying all of the amazing things happening in your life.

Actionable Steps to Manage the Overwhelm

* Take Something Off Your PlateI know it’s tempting to try and do it all, but here’s the reality – you can’t, at least not without burning out. The first step is learning to remove, not add, responsibilities. What can you delegate or eliminate? If you’re like me and can't reduce your commitments, find smaller tasks to let go of to create more mental space.

* Prepare with PurposeLast week, I talked about the importance of preparing for the week. It’s not just about time management – it’s about giving yourself the confidence to tackle each day. If you missed it, go check it out. Preparing helps you stay ahead of the chaos and keeps you intentional with your time.

* Move Your BodyWalking is my go-to for clearing my head. It’s like hitting the reset button on my mind. Find something that gives you the same clarity – maybe it’s walking, yoga, or even dancing around the kitchen. Physical movement does wonders for your mental health.

* Reduce Digital DistractionsI’ve recently started a dopamine detox, and let me tell you – it’s eye-opening. I took myself off social media, and I’m already noticing how much of my time and focus I was giving away to mindless scrolling. It’s not easy, but it’s been worth it. I challenge you to try it for a week. Track how often you pick up your phone without even thinking about it. You might be surprised!

Are You Listening to Your Body’s Feedback?

So, here’s my challenge for you: When you have a lot going on, do you notice your body's signals? Do you catch those little moments that tell you, "Hey, we’re almost at our limit here"? It’s all good stuff, but even good things need your full attention. What are you doing to take action when your body or mind starts throwing out those red flags?

For me, I microwaved my food scale. My first step was reducing the number of digital distractions, cutting out social media to focus on the things that matter most. What about you? What steps can you take to make sure you’re fully present for the amazing things in your life?

Let’s talk about it! How do you recognize when your bandwidth is stretched too thin, and what do you do about it? Share your thoughts with our Grit & Grace community.

Hope you have a great rest of your week! Take care of yourself – you deserve it.

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Good morning, everyone! Anna Marie Ellison here from Grit & Grace. Can you believe it? It’s the last Friday of August, and we’re heading into a long weekend. If you’re anything like me, August feels like it flew by in the blink of an eye. Between school starting back, open houses, and all the hustle that comes with getting into a new routine, it’s been an intense month. Oh, and did I mention I started at a new real estate company too?

With so much going on, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why I’ve made Fridays my Focus Fridays. I try not to take any appointments on this day and instead use the time to clear my mind, wrap up any loose ends, and prepare for the week ahead. And since we’ve got Labor Day on Monday, I’m doing my usual Sunday prep today so I can fully enjoy the holiday with my family.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Week

I want to share my simple yet effective method for prepping for the week. I hope it helps you feel more mindful, purposeful, and relaxed as you tackle your tasks.

* Create a Quadrant System: Grab a notepad and draw a large square, dividing it into four quadrants. Each quadrant will represent a different focus area for your week.

* Bottom Two Quadrants: Personal Prep

* Outfit Planning: Think about your week ahead. Are there specific days you need to dress up? Do you have workout days or early starts? Planning your outfits ahead saves time and stress each morning.

* Meal Planning: Write down your meals for the week. Breakfast might be the same every day, but think about your lunches and dinners. What can you prep ahead? What’s on autopilot for you?

* Top Two Quadrants: Brain Dump

* Personal Tasks: List any personal errands or appointments you need to take care of. Do you need to update the family budget, schedule a doctor’s appointment, or find time for a little self-care?

* Work Tasks: Carry over any work-related tasks that need attention next week. Follow-ups, client meetings, and any other priorities should go here.

* Get It All on Paper: Spend about 30 minutes getting everything out of your head and onto paper. This simple act of writing it all down can bring so much clarity and peace of mind.

Questions for You

Now, I’d love to hear from you! How do you prepare for your week? Do you have a similar system, or maybe you do something completely different? I learn so much from hearing about how others stay organized and focused. Leave a comment below and share your tips, tricks, and tweaks. Let’s help each other be the best versions of ourselves!

Remember, taking time to prepare isn’t just about staying organized—it’s about self-care. It’s about showing yourself that you matter, that your time and your peace of mind are worth protecting.

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend, enjoy the holiday, and I’ll see you next week!

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In the world of real estate, balancing a demanding career with personal well-being is a challenge many women face. To shed light on how to navigate this balancing act, I sat down with Zee White, Career and Talent Development Director at ERA American Real Estate, and a woman who has mastered the art of integrating health and career. In our conversation, Zee shared her journey, insights, and practical advice for women in the real estate industry who want to prioritize their health without sacrificing their professional success.

From Real Estate to Coaching: Zee White’s Journey

Zee White has been a part of ERA American Real Estate for 25 years, a milestone that speaks volumes about her dedication and expertise. As the Career and Talent Development Director, Zee’s primary role involves training new agents, helping them get their careers off the ground, and supporting them as they grow. Beyond her work in real estate, Zee is also a track coach at Niceville High School, where she coaches high jump and sprints.

Interestingly, Zee didn’t set out to find a career in real estate; rather, it found her.

"I was a single mom attending a vocational school, taking a computer class when an opportunity at ERA American Real Estate presented itself," Zee recalls. "I started as a personal assistant, doing data entry and flyers. From there, I got my real estate license, became a buyer’s agent, and eventually moved into leadership. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m proud of the path I’ve taken."

Finding Motivation in Health and Fitness

Balancing a career in real estate with personal health and fitness isn’t easy, but Zee has found a way to stay motivated.

"For me, it’s all about how I feel when I don’t work out," Zee explains. "When I’m not active or when I gain weight, I feel it in my body—my hips and back start to hurt, and my energy levels drop. But when I’m working out regularly, I feel sharper, both mentally and physically. That’s what keeps me motivated, even on those days when I’d rather stay in bed."

Zee’s commitment to her health is not just about looking good but about feeling good. She emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and making adjustments to stay on track.

"I may look great on the outside, but it’s about feeling great on the inside. That’s what keeps me motivated, even on those days when I’d rather stay in bed."

Advice for Women in Real Estate

For women in real estate who are just beginning to prioritize their health, Zee offers some practical advice.

"Start small. Just 30 minutes a day. It’s only 2% of your day, but it can make a world of difference," Zee advises. "Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to go hard for an hour every day from the start. Begin with simple bodyweight exercises, walking, or cutting out one unhealthy item from your diet. And remember, you don’t need an expensive gym membership or fancy equipment—there are plenty of things around your house you can use to get started."

Zee also emphasizes the importance of walking, calling it one of the most underrated forms of exercise. "Walking has become a vital part of my routine. It’s a great way to clear my head and get moving, and it’s something I can do all day long. Whether I’m on a long phone call or just need to step away from my desk, walking keeps me grounded and energized."

The Power of a Support System

Having a support system is crucial in maintaining motivation and consistency in health and fitness. Zee shares how her journey has been positively impacted by the support of her husband and friends. "My husband and I are doing the Carnivore Diet together, and having that support has been a game-changer. We hold each other accountable, track our progress, and keep each other going."

Zee also talks about the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar goals.

"Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a group of like-minded people, having someone to share your journey with keeps you motivated. You don’t know who’s watching you, who you’re inspiring, and how much your journey might be motivating someone else."

Final Thoughts: Take Time for Yourself

Zee’s story is a powerful reminder that, in the midst of caring for everyone else—family, clients, colleagues—women need to take time for themselves.

"We take time for absolutely everyone else. We pack the lunches, make the dinners, do the grocery shopping, and even when we are sick, we still go to work. But what about us? What about that 30 minutes a day that we can spend on ourselves? It’s important to articulate to our partners and families that we matter too."

For women in real estate, or any field, Zee’s message is clear: You matter. Prioritizing your health and well-being is not only beneficial for you but also for those around you. By taking care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of others.

Connect with Z White on Social Media

Stay inspired and motivated by following Zee on Facebook! Whether you're looking for insights on balancing your real estate career with personal wellness or just want a dose of daily inspiration, Zee is someone you’ll want in your corner. Connect with her at Zee White on Facebook to keep up with her journey and join a community of like-minded individuals striving for success and well-being.

Information about the Carnivore Diet

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Good Sunday morning! It’s been a while since I’ve done a video from my car, but today felt like the right time to share some thoughts. Sundays can be a tricky day for many of us. Instead of seeing it as the calm before the storm, I prefer to think of it as an opportunity to set up for the week ahead. It’s all about reframing how we approach it.

Confronting the “Sunday Something”

I had originally planned to talk about my Sunday setup today, but something else took precedence. Yesterday, I missed my usual gym session, so this morning, before church, I decided to hit the gym. And, well, something started bubbling up inside of me. It's not quite anxiety, but a sense of unease, a feeling of not being prepared for the week ahead. I know I’m not alone in this; it’s something many of us experience.

Prioritizing Self-Care: The Power of a Good Workout

This “Sunday something” begins to creep in, filling my mind with thoughts about how the week will unfold—both the beginning and the end. It’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed, especially when juggling a real estate business, being a mom, a wife, and trying to be present in all the areas that matter most to me. Yet, here I am, parked outside the gym at 8:17 AM, determined to tackle this feeling head-on.

Why the gym? Because I know if I skip my workout, especially on a Sunday, it throws off my whole day. Lifting weights makes me feel strong, confident, and ready to face whatever comes my way. So, before I even think about all the tasks ahead, I’m prioritizing this moment for myself.

Brain Dumping: Organizing Thoughts for a Calm Mind

When I get home, I’ll dive into my usual Sunday routine, but with a twist. I typically do a “brain dump” in the afternoon—writing down everything from the previous week and organizing my thoughts for the week ahead. But today, I’m going to do it earlier, right after the gym. It helps me to see everything laid out in front of me, giving me a sense of control and preparedness.

Meal Prep & Outfits: Reducing Morning Stress

Meal prep is another big part of my Sunday setup. I’ve always prepped food on Sundays, but today, I’m also going to think ahead about what I’ll wear for the week. It might sound trivial, but having an idea of my outfits reduces stress in the mornings. It’s one less decision to make, and it helps me feel more put-together as I navigate the week.

Navigating a Busy Season: Balancing Family and Work

Life is hectic right now—we’re in the third week of school, deep into football season, and managing all the family logistics that come with it. By the time we get home from practices and homework sessions, I’m on autopilot, and having these small things in place really helps.

Embracing the Grit to Find Grace

I know I’m not the only one who feels this way on Sundays. There’s something about the day that can stir up these feelings, and I would love to hear from you. How do you set yourself up for the week? What routines or rituals help you feel confident and ready to take on the challenges ahead?

Sharing the Journey: How Do You Prepare for the Week?

For me, today’s about embracing the “grit” part of the journey. It’s not always pretty or polished, but it’s real. And through this grit, I aim to bring grace into the week ahead. I’d love to know your thoughts and strategies—how do you prepare yourself to be the best mom, wife, business owner, or whatever roles you’re balancing?

Let’s share our tips and support each other as we move into a new week. Wishing you all a strong start and a week filled with confidence and grace.

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“I was just tired. One night, after dinner, I realized that scrolling through social media was making me feel inadequate. So, I deleted all the apps from my phone and decided to use them only for business purposes on my computer.”

In today's edition of Grit & Grace, we delve into the art of maintaining balance in the high-paced world of real estate. This series, designed specifically for women in the industry, focuses on self-talk, pursuing passions, and setting strong boundaries. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Tami Hallman, a seasoned realtor who exemplifies these principles.

A Journey of Resilience

Tami Hallman has been a powerhouse in real estate for 17 years. Starting in 2007 during the recession, she has led her three-person team, the Tami Hallman Group, to impressive heights, even achieving $11 million in volume last year despite market challenges. “We may be small, but we are mighty,” Tami proudly states.

Taking a Break from Social Media

In the real estate industry, social media is often seen as indispensable. However, Tami decided to take a break.

“I was just tired. One night, after dinner, I realized that scrolling through social media was making me feel inadequate. So, I deleted all the apps from my phone and decided to use them only for business purposes on my computer,” she explains.

Initially, she missed keeping up with friends and industry news, but the break allowed her to become more focused and productive. “I read more books and felt smarter and more engaged with my real life,” she shares.

Setting Boundaries and Maintaining Balance

Tami’s secret to balancing work, family, and personal time lies in setting firm boundaries. For the past five years, Thursdays have been her personal day.

“It’s my time to recharge, whether it’s reading, walking, or just being alone,” she says.

She also keeps her work phone on Do Not Disturb from 7 PM to 9 AM, ensuring she’s present with her family in the evenings.

“Clients need to understand that while I am dedicated to my work, I also have a role as a mother,” Tami emphasizes.

Advice for Women in Real Estate

Tami’s journey offers valuable lessons for other women in real estate. Here are her top tips:

* Get a Second Phone: Separate work and personal life to create clear boundaries.

* Set Clear Boundaries: Let clients know your availability and stick to it.

* Personal Time: Carve out time for yourself, even if it’s just a few hours each week.

* Learn from Mistakes: It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn and grow from them.

Embracing Mistakes and Growing

“It’s okay to make mistakes and have moments of frustration,” Tami advises. “Learn from them and grow. Trust your intuition and stand firm in your boundaries.”

Final Thoughts

Tami Hallman’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of self-care. Her ability to balance a demanding career with personal well-being serves as an inspiration to women in real estate and beyond.

For those wanting to connect with Tami, her contact information is included below. She’s a true gem in the real estate world, and her insights are invaluable.

* Facebook: Personal

* Facebook: Professional

* Instagram: Personal

* Instagram: Professional

Thank you for joining us on Grit & Grace. Until next time, take care of yourself and keep chasing what sets your heart on fire.

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Anna Marie Ellison here again for the next series of Grit & Grace. Today, I'm switching things up a bit because I just visited my grandmother, Nana, down in Florida. She's in a fantastic facility that takes great care of her, but this visit was tough. She's been showing more signs of dementia and Alzheimer's since the last time I saw her.

For those of you who've dealt with a family member with these illnesses, you know how hard it is. On my drive back home, a four-hour trip, I couldn't stop thinking about her condition and what it might mean for my own health. Both of my grandmothers had Alzheimer's, so it's definitely on my mind. They say cognitive issues can run in families, and women seem to be more at risk, partly because we live longer and maybe because we don't always take the best care of ourselves.

This series is all about health, and during my drive, I listened to podcasts about dementia. They all had similar advice on how to prevent cognitive decline, so I thought I'd share some quick tips we can all use to set ourselves up for a healthy future:

* Stay Active: Regular exercise like walking, yoga, or strength training can really boost brain health.

* Eat Smart: A balanced diet with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats is key. Think Mediterranean!

* Challenge Your Mind: Keep your brain busy with reading, puzzles, or learning something new.

* Stay Connected: Keep up with friends and join community activities to support your mental health.

* Prioritize Sleep: Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night for a sharp mind.

* Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to keep stress in check.

* Regular Check-Ups: Visit your doctor regularly to manage any chronic conditions.

* Healthy Habits: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to keep your brain healthy.

Reflecting on my drive, I realized how important it is to take care of myself now for the sake of my future self. I'd love to hear from you all – what are you doing to prevent cognitive decline?

I recently chatted with Meag, who was on last week, about creatine's benefits for brain health. It's not just for physical recovery but also helps with mental clarity. While I'm no doctor, I'm all about being the best version of myself so I can be the best mom, broker, wife, and friend.

Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments! Taking care of our health today means setting ourselves up for a bright future. Thanks for listening and joining me on this journey. Have a great weekend! 🌸

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Hey hey, it's Anna Marie Ellison here! Welcome to week two, or technically week one, of my Grit & Grace series—a 12-week journey focusing on mindset and overall health for women in the real estate space. Whether you’re an agent, broker, title professional, or part of the mortgage industry, this series is for you.

I’m challenging myself in the latter half of 2024 to talk more about real estate, an area that's so important to us as leaders in our respective fields. This series is inspired by Ben Bergeron's "Health in 100 Words," and I'll share that at the end of this post.

The first part of his declaration emphasizes creating an environment where it’s easy to eat well and, crucially, sleep well. Sleep is something I’ve prioritized for a long time, and I’m incredibly comfortable talking about it and sharing tips, even though I’m not perfect at it.

A few years ago, I was in a class where they asked, "What is the one thing that, if you prioritize it, will help you be the best version of yourself?" For me, that thing was sleep.

When I get enough sleep, I feel better overall. I manage not just my emotions but also my reactions to difficult situations much better. I want to be known for handling challenges gracefully and tactfully, but when I'm tired and run down, I can't do that effectively.

In that class, I coined a new term: "slangry." It's like being "hangry" (hungry + angry), but for sleep. When I don't get enough good sleep and become angry, I become "slangry." It reminded me of Betty White in those Snickers commercials, where she turns into a grumpy version of herself when she's hungry. I digress…

Consistent Sleep Routine

If I want to wake up at a certain time, I calculate how far back I need to go to sleep to get seven to eight hours of rest. Sometimes, I need a full nine hours to feel my best the next day. When my son, Major, was younger, he'd go to sleep at 7:30 PM, and I’d follow shortly after at 7:45 PM. Now that he’s in high school, his bedtime has changed, and we’re adjusting.

Just like many of us have a morning routine—whether you do your makeup before or after brushing your teeth, start your day with coffee or water, spend some quiet time, and then move your body—we need a solid bedtime routine to ensure quality sleep.

Phone not in reach

One key habit I'm working on is not keeping my phone next to my bed. Though we often use it as an alarm clock, I’ve found that I wind down better when it's not within arm's reach. I’ve read a lot of advice suggesting you charge your phone in another room, but even placing it across the room can help.

When Major is at his dad’s house, I like having my phone accessible in case he needs me. I’m trying to get better at putting it on the dresser or in the bathroom, turning on sleep mode to silence notifications, but allowing calls from him.

As moms, we often prioritize the "what ifs" over our needs, but it’s crucial to create a routine that supports our well-being. Putting my phone away at night is a small step towards better sleep and a healthier routine.

Brain Dump or Journaling

I've always carried a notebook and pencil with me. I use it to jot down a bunch of things to help set me up for the next day and to clear my mind. Recently, I discovered Apple's journaling app, which prompts me to journal at night before I put my phone on the dresser or in the bathroom.

I'm still figuring out which method works best for me. I love the feeling of writing on paper, but sometimes my phone is more convenient since it's already in my hand. I'm experimenting with both to see which one fits my routine better.

I’d love to hear from you: What are some things you do to ensure a solid bedtime routine? How are you prioritizing sleep in your life? Share your thoughts below!

Y'all have a great rest of your week. See you next time!

Grit & Grace: Gather

We're hosting a workshop at a lovely spot in West Homewood. It's a cozy place where we’ll spend a few hours recharging and refocusing on ourselves. Lunch will be provided, and I’m looking forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals who want to take a minute to step back from the daily grind and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Join Us:

📅 Date: July 25, 2024📍 Location: Workshop, West Homewood🕒 Time: 10:00am 🍽️ Lunch Provided!

If you found this post helpful or know someone who could use a reminder to prioritize their sleep, please share it with them. Let's spread the importance of self-care and help each other recharge and refocus.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit consultwithame.substack.com

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