Different kind of success story. Overcoming fear

[Rich Weese]

I've been asked by many about what the difference is that causes success in some, and failure in others. Normally. I think it is something very small.I hope this might remove the veil of uncertainty or fear some BP members have.
There have been many posts on BP about what causes failure. On this thread, it is strictly for success stories. I think the following could actually turn into a success story for many on here.
In over 30 years of investing, I've seen a lot of RE people. Most have been unsuccessful, and not very many have been the opposite. What causes some investors to be able to succeed ? Or, what causes many to not succeed?? That is the better question, imo.
Certainly, it is not just one simple answer. Environment, location, opportunity, knowledge, experience and intelligence are part of it. I'd argue that almost ALL of us have those. So, imo, there must be something else.
As others have pointed out, fear may cause us to be afraid to pull the trigger or to get started.I think many are seminar junkies, because it saves them having to take the leap or change and do something IN RE, rather than just reading and seminaring about it! It avoids reality for them
I've found that most of us are afraid of what we don't understand. That seems to be the #1 reason for fear. We overcome that with many of the items listed in this post, but no need to overdo removing it.
I've told many seminar junkies to just go buy SOMETHING. I almost don't care what it is. In the field learning is unmatchable. It will provide you with much more of a return on investment than anything else.
As a baby, we're afraid of that first step. We take a small step, then walk, and then run. Investing is the same thing. I've identified 4 Obstacles to creating wealth and have mentioned them before.
1.procrastination
2.spending habits
3.inflation
4.taxes

All of these are removeable. The first is mostly due to fear. Get a general understanding of real estate and then select an area to perform in.Specialize in that one area, and make it yours. Immerse yourself in it. Shadow those that are successful in your area of specialty and copy them.
This RE stuff is not brain surgery. Sometimes, we make it harder than it is. There are unbelievable sources on here to help, in every area you might choose. Get over the fear. Learn your area of interest well, and then go do it. Come here for encouragement and move along in your process.
There is no substitute for just doing it. Get busy and take those steps neccessary. Good luck. Rich.

[Matt DuSold]

I like this post a lot Rich. Hopefully some newbies will get pushed off the edge. I am still a newbie but can already tell I am getting nudged off and finally feel more comfortable.

I think you stating shadow those who are successful and copy them is one of the most import things a newbie can do. I am lucky enough to have an investor allow me to bug him (Thanks to Josh for letting me meet Nick through BP) and ask tons of questions and actually be on the phone when he talks to homeowners we try to help.

Actually being in the mix and knowing exactly how someone who is very successful does it is SO important. Just today was an example of this for me. Earlier today we were on the phone with a homeowner who needed help and got what we could/needed. Later I had a another lead and built up the courage to call myself. (Well not really because I had to text and call Nick to see what to say) But none the less I just went for it and did everything Nick did in the call earlier, and go figure everything went real well and the people were very happy to have me trying to help them, and more importantly (for my confidence at least) had no clue I've NEVER done what I just did with them before.

I know everyone says it but you need to just not be scared people are people and especially when you are dealing with peoples homes they will be begging you for help in some cases. I cant stress how important it is to any new investor to find someone you can learn from and help along the way. If you can do that Rich's first obstacle of procrastination will become less of an obstacle. I cant comment on the other 3 but hopefully I will be able to in the near future!