For most people, hearing the words, “You’re fired,” can be discouraging. For me, it actually felt good—especially coming from an icon like Donald Trump. I had fought my way through hundreds of thousands “Apprentice wannabes,” competed against some of the best and brightest business professionals in America, and made it to the final 11! While I set out to win, I think I might have learned more from my defeat than I would have from a victory.
I learned so much from spending time with the Trump Organization for more than a month. Being with someone like Donald Trump in a recession was truly inspiring and presented opportunities I never could have imagined. Trump demands a lot from everyone in his company, and you’d better bring your “A” game every minute of every day. While the experience allowed me to reflect on my successes, it really re-ignited my passion for being the best. And that pretty much sums up Donald Trump, being the best.
I learned to accept where you are today, forget about what you don’t have and embrace the challenge ahead. When we were given a task, we didn’t have time to complain; we would simply do the best with what we had to work with, embrace it, have fun and execute—no excuses!
My real estate career has certainly been positively affected by this experience, and I am much more selective with the clients I work with. Trump didn’t get rich saying “yes” to every deal, and sometimes “no” can be the best financial decision. Too many in this business play the numbers game: List 100 homes and hope to satisfy 50. Not me. Now I work with a very select group of clients, delivering Trump-like service.
