Running with a 9-5 while finding time for REI

[James Austin]

Maybe this question has been asked a few to many, but for all you who have made investing work while running the race in a 9-5, I have set a plan to start out by wholesaling (yes I know doesn't everyone...) I have a 9-5 where it seem like I'm struggling to keep up with both most of the time, with a family to raise, getting what seem to be nothing accomplished during the week and then playing catch up on the weekends, OMG the time flies and man does it go fast!! I think for anyone trying to start out in the REI world it is definitely a lesson in desire, persistence, and willingness to go the long haul, for those of you that have made it and have made it while juggling a job and family, and keeping up with the day to day. I'm curious as to how you managed it, while on a budget? I'm beginning my marketing campaign, and looking toward the future when I have the phone calls to make and the deals to run with, my cell service is hit or miss so trying to use lunch to make calls seems next to impossible, do you find that potential clients get PO'ed if you call after 6 or 7 or later? Are there other tricks when it comes to all this? forgive my jumbled mess of questions, I really am just curious how or the best way to manage everything?

Thank You in advance, for even taking the time to read through this mess!!

[Michael Totman]

James if there was a magic formula none of us would be responding on this thread, we'd all be on our private beach! Persistence is the key, and organizing yourself.  People tell me I'm crazy all the time because of my strict scheduling and planning, but without it I'd get nothing done.  Even when I have a plan set out and time blocked, something always comes up.  Be flexible and fit it in wherever it fits. 

Three years old may be too young to introduce the business to the little girl, but maybe you can find a way to include her in some tasks you do.  If you're going to look at an empty house bring her along to get that daddy time, teach her what you're doing, then stop for ice cream on the way home.  

We buy and hold with a 9 - 5, but throughout the day I'm talking with tenants, lenders, maintenance, etc.  I find the time here and there. I figure if half the office can take 15 minutes every hour for a cigarette, I can make a call or write an email in that time!