Talking to people gives me anxiety. Am I in the wrong business?

[Jared G.]

So I admit I come into real estate from a place of wanting to boost and secure future financial independence, not necessarily due to a love of the field itself. I was mainly inspired to start researching investment properties by listening to podcasters like Paula Pant.

Now, as  I'm learning, a huge portion of succeeding in real estate is going out and talking to people -- investors, contractors, neighbors, residents of areas to invest in, etc. Making connections, networking, and starting conversations.

The thing is, I absolutely hate to do that. I can deal with talking to people if I have specific business or questions for someone in particular, but just chatting people up for the sake of it is something that gives me extreme anxiety. Going to meetups doesn't sound like fun for me, it sounds like a grueling chore. Am I simply not cut out for this business? I would rather know that now than find out years down the line. Or, is there anyone out there who has a different style of making it work that doesn't involve being extroverted? Is there maybe a certain aspect of real estate better suited for me?

Again, it's not that I can't talk to anyone; I definitely can if it's necessary. It's the general chatting and going out and meeting people just for the sake of making connections that I hate. If it were with people I have legitimate business with, I'd have no problem. 

[David Cruice]

Jared, I feel your pain, brother.  My wife and daughter are exactly the same as you so I understand the challenges you face.  It can't simply be overcome by people saying to you, "Go on, get out there.  The more people you meet, the more you'll come out of your shell".  It just doesn't work like that.  My suggestion to you would be to try to partner up with someone you know and trust like a family member, good friend, or maybe a co-worker and who is interested in real estate investment.  If you have the drive and passion to success, they can come along for the ride with you.  They can be the "face and voice" of the operation, while you can be the brains and driving force behind it.  Divide and conquer, my friend!  Divide and conquer!  Go for it!