A Fresh Start for Your Business and Your Life

As we step into 2026, there’s something energizing about the clean slate a new year offers. Whether you’re planning your next big commercial real estate deal or simply looking to improve your daily routines, the beginning of the year brings with it the perfect opportunity to set intentions that will carry us forward throughout the year.

In my years working in commercial real estate, I’ve learned that the most successful professionals aren’t just good at closing deals, they’re also intentional about their personal growth and well-being. The two go hand in hand. When we take care of ourselves and set clear goals, we show up better for our clients, our teams, and our families.

So, as we begin this new year together, I want to share some strategies that have helped me create sustainable growth, both professionally and personally.

Start with Reflection, Not Resolutions

Before we dive into goal setting, let’s take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been. Instead of immediately jumping to resolutions (which often fade by February), I’ve found it more valuable to ask myself a few key questions:

What worked well last year? What didn’t? What relationships brought me joy and energy? What projects or transactions taught me the most? Where did I feel most fulfilled?

This reflection creates a foundation for meaningful growth rather than arbitrary goals. In my own practice, I’ve noticed that my most successful years weren’t the ones where I simply worked more hours, they were the ones where I worked with intention and maintained balance.

Set Clear, Measurable Business Goals for Success in 2026

Once you’ve reflected on the past year, it’s time to look forward. In the commercial real estate world, we deal with complex transactions that require meticulous planning and attention to detail. The same principles apply to our personal and professional development.

Rather than vague aspirations like “grow my business” or “be more productive,” try setting specific, measurable goals such as expanding into a new market sector, closing a specific number of transactions, implementing new client communication systems, or dedicating time each week to professional development.

The key is making these goals concrete and trackable. I recommend writing them down and reviewing them quarterly to assess your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Invest in Relationships

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in this industry is that success isn’t just about transactions, it’s about relationships. The clients who return year after year, the colleagues who become trusted partners, the mentors who guide us through challenges, these relationships are the foundation of sustainable growth.

This year, consider how you can deepen and expand your professional network. Schedule regular check-ins with your key clients, not just when a deal is on the table. Attend industry events and conferences. Reach out to someone you admire and ask them to coffee. Join professional organizations or mentorship programs.

These connections don’t just benefit your business; they enrich your life and provide support when you need it most.

Prioritize Personal Well-Being

Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Running a successful business while maintaining a fulfilling personal life requires intentional self-care.

For me, that means making time for my family, whether it’s watching my daughter’s jiu jitsu progress or working on projects around our Texas ranch. These moments away from work recharge my batteries and remind me why I work so hard in the first place.

Your version of self-care might look different, maybe it’s daily exercise, meditation, a creative hobby, or simply protecting your evenings and weekends. Whatever it is, schedule it like you would a client meeting. Your well-being isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for long-term success.

Embrace Continuous Learning

The commercial real estate landscape is constantly evolving, with new regulations, technologies, and market trends emerging regularly. Staying current isn’t just about maintaining your expertise, it’s about remaining relevant and valuable to your clients.

This year, commit to continuous learning in ways that excite you. Read industry publications and books outside your field. Take courses or earn certifications. Listen to podcasts during your commute. Attend webinars on emerging topics.

I also encourage learning from your own experiences. After each transaction or project, take a few minutes to identify what went well and what could be improved. These reflections become invaluable lessons that inform your future work.

Create Systems for Efficiency

Growth doesn’t have to mean working longer hours. Often, it means working smarter. One of the best investments you can make this year is developing systems and processes that streamline your work.

Look at your daily routines and identify tasks that could be automated, delegated, or eliminated entirely. Perhaps you can create templates for common communications, implement project management software, establish clear workflows for recurring tasks, or designate specific times for checking email and returning calls.

At Seibold Group, we’ve found that strong systems not only improve efficiency, they also reduce stress and create consistency in the client experience.

Build in Flexibility

While planning and goal setting are essential, life rarely goes exactly according to plan. Markets shift. Unexpected opportunities arise. Personal circumstances change.

The most successful people I know aren’t the ones with the most rigid plans; they’re the ones who can adapt while staying focused on their core values and objectives. Build flexibility into your goals and be willing to pivot when necessary. This doesn’t mean abandoning your vision; it means being responsive to reality.

Celebrate Progress Along the Way

Finally, don’t wait until December to celebrate your successes. Acknowledge the milestones, both big and small, throughout the year. Closed a challenging deal? Take a moment to appreciate your hard work. Maintained your morning routine for a month? That’s worth recognizing. Hit a quarterly goal? Celebrate with your team.

These celebrations aren’t just feel-good moments; they reinforce positive habits and keep us motivated for the journey ahead.

Looking Forward

As we move into 2026, I’m excited about the possibilities this year holds. Whether you’re navigating a major commercial transaction, building your business, or simply trying to find more balance in your life, remember that growth happens one intentional step at a time.

The most important thing is to start. Don’t wait for the perfect plan or the perfect moment. Begin with where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.

If you’re working on commercial real estate goals this year and want a partner who understands both the complexity of the transactions and the importance of building lasting relationships, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out to me at michele@seiboldgroup.com, and let’s discuss how Seibold Group can support your success in 2026.

Here’s to a year of meaningful growth, authentic connections, and balanced success!

Michele Seibold, Esq
SVP | Senior Commercial Escrow Officer