Blueprints, not treasure maps
What real estate taught me about finding (and trusting) my own answers
I used to believe the next big breakthrough was just one course or mentor away.
I remember scouring books, podcasts, and workshops—searching for that magic bullet that would finally make real estate feel safe…maybe even easy. But the more I searched, the more frustrated I became.
Nothing quite fit.
It wasn’t until I accepted that nobody else had the answer—that there was no treasure map—that things truly changed for me.1 That reckoning sparked the creation of the IBRE frameworks, which now help others find their own way.
The success and confidence I was looking for were never going to come from someone else’s answers—and the same is true for you. That’s why I won’t tell others exactly what to do or say.
Better questions are far more useful.
Of course, many agents find this approach frustrating. It’s tempting to want a step-by-step map. But those maps? They lack authenticity and sustainability.2
Clarifying your own beliefs, talents, and traits can be a challenging and uncomfortable process. The early steps may feel awkward—like trying to unfold a stubborn lawn chair (I know from experience!). But that discomfort is exactly what leads to genuine growth.
When you own your answers, you begin to trust yourself more deeply—and that trust is what sticks. It’s also what makes your marketing resonate with others.
If you’re feeling lost or frustrated, it might be a sign you’re finally ready to stop following someone else’s treasure map and start designing for yourself. I encourage you: dive in, break things apart, experiment, and then—with careful intention—create the blueprint of the business you’ve always wanted.
I’m rooting for you.
Credit to Dr. Chris Lee who I heard say the phrase, “blueprints, not treasure maps”. Oh how right he is!
Treasure maps are everywhere in real estate - systems, scripts, etc. - and I’m not opposed to the good people who teach them; however, I’m of the opinion that we should have a sense of ourselves before following any of them. It’s why I took down the paywall here. The mission is to encourage agents and brokers to ask and answer deeper questions - no need to gatekeep that. :)
