By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Blog
Category

My personal transition from part-owner of a Real Estate Agency to Social Media Manager

By
Karin Dijkshoorn
July 24, 2024
5 min read
Share this post
Instructions
If you intend to use this component with Finsweet's Table of Contents attributes follow these steps:
  1. Remove the current class from the content27_link item as Webflows native current state will automatically be applied.
  2. To add interactions which automatically expand and collapse sections in the table of contents select the content27_h-trigger element, add an element trigger and select Mouse click (tap)
  3. For the 1st click select the custom animation Content 27 table of contents [Expand] and for the 2nd click select the custom animation Content 27 table of contents [Collapse].
  4. In the Trigger Settings, deselect all checkboxes other than Desktop and above. This disables the interaction on tablet and below to prevent bugs when scrolling.

Introduction

In today's post, I want to tell you about my personal and professional journey and how I transitioned in my fifties from Real Estate to Digital Marketing. I hope I can inspire those of you that are thinking about getting out of the 9-5 and do something for yourself with the flexibility of working from your laptop. My transition wasn't just a career shift – it's a story of passion, self-development, and the joy of connecting in the digital world. So, grab a comfy seat, and let's dive into the details.

The background: Love for Social Media and Self-Development

Before we get into the details of the transition, let me take you back a bit. My love for social media and self-development has been a constant companion for years. Long before the idea of changing careers entered the picture, I found immense joy in the power of online platforms and the endless possibilities they brought.

Creating and managing social media pages wasn't just part of the job – it was something I genuinely enjoyed. 

From shaping the online presence of our real estate business to leaving my mark on the pages of previous companies, I discovered a passion that would eventually become the catalyst for a major career move.

Real Estate Sales in the Heart of Southern Spain

Picture this – the sun-kissed coast, charming villas, and the allure of the Mediterranean. For years, I found myself immersed in the world of real estate sales in southern Spain. It was a dynamic and challenging experience, navigating the complications of the market and helping clients sell their homes or find their piece of paradise.

Amidst the beauty of the region, my life partner and I ran our own real estate agency. We enjoyed closing deals and the joy of helping people find their dream homes in this enchanting part of the world. Yet, as with any journey, there were moments of reflection, and the desire for change began to stir.

The Pandemic: A Catalyst for Reflection

Then, the unexpected happened – the world came to a standstill with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bustling real estate market in southern Spain, known for its international allure, faced a temporary halt. It was during this forced pause that I found the time for introspection.

It became evident that the current situation, with its challenges and demands, no longer resonated with my evolving priorities.

The pandemic served as a magnifying glass, making it crystal clear that change was not just a desire but a necessity. The blurred lines between work and personal life, the demands of the real estate market, and the need for a more flexible and balanced lifestyle became more obvious than ever.

The Spark of Social Media and Self-Discovery

As I took a step back, I realised that my passion for social media and self-development had been a constant, even throughout my real estate journey. I had always enjoyed crafting engaging content and building online communities, whether for our real estate business or previous companies. The ability to connect with clients, build brand presence, and shape marketing strategies through platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook opened up new possibilities. Social media wasn't just a means of communication; it was an evolving landscape with vast potential for growth and innovation. Intrigued by the prospect, I began to envision a career that seamlessly blended my passion for personal development with a deepening understanding of online communication.

Making the Leap: Social Media Management from Home

After a few years of working online as a network marketer, I decided that I wanted to deepen my knowledge and start a proper business, helping others with their social media rather than network marketing. Armed with newfound enthusiasm, I made the conscious decision to transition into social media management. This would allow me to balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being. 

Embracing Change and Personal Growth:

The journey from real estate entrepreneurship to social media management wasn't without its challenges. Change, as they say, is a constant, and navigating uncharted waters requires adaptability and resilience. However, the lessons learned throughout this process have been invaluable.

Embracing change has not only broadened my professional horizons but has also  helped my personal growth. The ability to change from a well-established career path to something entirely different has been a testament to the importance of aligning one's professional pursuits with evolving passions and priorities. 

The Laptop Lifestyle Master Program (LLMP)

To enable this transition, I decided to invest in myself and joined the Laptop Lifestyle Master Program (LLMP). This program wasn't just about working from home; it was a comprehensive pathway to mastering the art of social media management in the online space. LLMP offered a supporting community and all the knowledge, tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital world.

Lessons Learned: Balance and Fulfilment:

One of the primary lessons that I took from this journey is the significance of balance. The demanding nature of real estate entrepreneurship often left little room for personal pursuits. The shift to social media management, coupled with the flexibility of a home-based setup, allowed me to strike a more harmonious balance between work and life.

Furthermore, the journey underscored the importance of pursuing work that aligns with one's passions. Social media management, with its ever-evolving nature and dynamic challenges, has provided a platform for creative expression and continuous learning. Aligning professional pursuits with personal interests has been a key driver of job satisfaction and a deeper sense of fulfilment.

Advice for Those Considering Change:

If you find yourself standing at a crossroads, contemplating a shift in your career path, here are a few pieces of advice based on my own experience:

1. Identify Your Passion:

Take the time to identify what truly excites and motivates you. Your passion will be the driving force behind a successful career transition.

2. Evaluate Work-Life Balance: 

Consider how your current professional situation aligns with your personal life. Striking a balance is crucial for long-term satisfaction and well-being.

3.Embrace Flexibility: 

The traditional 9-to-5 model may not suit everyone. Explore opportunities that offer flexibility, allowing you to tailor your work to your unique needs and preferences.

4. Continuous Learning:

Embrace a mindset of continuous learning. The willingness to adapt and acquire new skills is essential in today's rapidly evolving professional landscape.

5. Network and Seek Guidance:

Connect with professionals who have made similar transitions. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable guidance and perspective.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, my journey from real estate entrepreneurship to home-based social media management has been a true transformation; not just professionally, but just as much personally. It is a story of embracing change, aligning professional pursuits with personal passions, and finding balance in the pursuit of fulfilment.

For those contemplating a similar shift, remember that change is not merely a process but an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Whether you're drawn to social media management or another field entirely, the key lies in recognizing your passions, evaluating your priorities, and having the courage to take that leap.

As I continue to navigate this exciting chapter of my professional life, I am reminded that the only constant is change, and embracing it can lead to unexpected, yet profoundly rewarding, outcomes. Here's to the journey, the lessons learned, and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to choose a new path.