Mid-Year Market Check-In: Reflecting and Planning Ahead

Every year, July shows up like a mirror. Six months behind us, six ahead. And if you’re paying attention, it’s the perfect moment to ask—not just “how am I doing?” but am I doing this the way I meant to? Somewhere between January’s bold goals and July’s thick heat, we lose some clarity. We start moving fast, trying to keep up with shifting markets, busy buyers, and the kind of comparison that creeps in when you’re scrolling and someone else looks like they’ve got it all figured out. So let me say this gently, but firmly: you’re not behind—you’re just due for a reset.

I’ve had my fair share of Julys where I felt like I was spinning my wheels. Years where I looked up and didn’t recognize the way I was working anymore. I remember one in particular, back in my early years, where I had zero closings on the books and nothing but “thinking about it” leads. I was tired—physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’d done all the things: printed the flyers, hosted the open houses, dropped the business cards. But I hadn’t connected. I hadn’t shown up with the heart I started this career with.

So that week, I put my business planner aside and called three people. Not to ask for a referral, not to pitch—just to check in. “How’s the new kitchen working out?” “How are the kids adjusting?” “Need anything from me?” One of those calls turned into a listing. That listing led to a buyer. That buyer brought me their cousin. But more than that, those conversations reminded me of something I’d lost along the way: this job isn’t about always doing more. It’s about showing up in a way that feels true.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent the first part of this year working hard. But now’s the time to pause and ask: what kind of work am I doing? Am I proud of how I’ve been showing up—not just with clients, but with myself? Have I been focused, or just busy? Have I been building a business that actually reflects who I am?

This is the moment to come home to your “why.” And no, that doesn’t require a whole rebrand or a new website or some fancy campaign. It just means taking a moment to remember that real estate is built on relationships—and those relationships thrive when we lead with care.

So what does that look like right now? It might be as simple as sending a quick text to a past client just to ask how they’re enjoying their new patio. It might be dropping off a jar of peach jam with a handwritten note on a porch you haven’t visited since closing. It might mean opening your calendar and carving out a few hours to call the people who helped you build your business—no reason, just gratitude.

And if you’re craving something a little more forward-facing, the longer evenings of summer are your secret weapon.Host a little Sunset Social in a neighborhood green space. Bring a cooler of sweet tea, a few paper cups, and a simple sign that says, “Curious about the market? Let’s chat.” Or co-host a Vendor Spotlight Happy Hour with a stager or landscaper—no pressure, just mingling and good conversation. One of my personal favorites? A weekly “Ask Me Anything” picnic hour in the park. No scripts, just presence. You’d be amazed what people will share when they don’t feel sold to.

This work isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being the right person in the right moment. And when you lead with presence and follow through with consistency, people notice. They remember. And they come back.

So if your numbers aren’t where you thought they’d be by now, or if you’re carrying a little more self-doubt than you were back in January, let this be your reset. Not because you need to catch up, but because you’re worth showing up for.

You’ve still got time. You’ve still got people to serve. And you’ve still got the experience, the kindness, and the grit that built everything good in your business so far. So take a breath. Reconnect. And get back out there—not to prove anything, but because this work still matters.

And so do you.

Image by AS Photography on Pexels