Written by Carissa Abazia
My dad is one awesome human being. Some say I’m his mini-me. Some say “the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.” I can’t say I don’t like hearing these remarks from people who know us both — it’s quite the compliment and honor.
He is, and always has been, my biggest supporter and a very lucrative source of inspiration.
For the record, my mom is a cross between a magical unicorn and a saint ― but since I work in the same industry as my dad, I want to highlight some of the most valuable life lessons he has taught me, and my brother, over the years.
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Always finish strong. If you start a project, do not quit halfway through.
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Follow the only rule: respect. Treat others how they – and you – want to be treated.
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Practice discipline: do what you need to do, when you need to do it, and don’t stop until it’s done. He loved to quote Jerry Rice when I would complain: “Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t.”
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A clean car runs better. Joking aside, my father would check on my car at least once a week in high school to ensure it was clean (on the outside as well as on the inside).
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It’s what you know AND whom you know. Do not lose sight of one over the other.
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Live within your means. Do not spend money you don’t have.
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Family first. Remember to always stick together.
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Be the main point of contact on ALL business transactions. Do not make excusese for not knowing the file or client.
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In business, if you make a mistake, don’t brush it under the rug. Own your mistake, and let others know you made the mistake early on so it doesn’t get bigger (or kill the deal).
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Make sure your client is not calling you for an update. Give your client an update before they even have to think about making that call.
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Think before you speak. Listen, stop, think, and respond intelligently.
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With freedom, comes responsibility. Use it wisely.
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Many streams make a big river. Multiple sources of income is the key to success.
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“The older you get, the wiser I become.”
I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. (Dad, if you read this, I love you and greatly appreciate the wisdom you have bestowed on me).

Thanks for reading!
Carissa Abazia
@CarissaMortgage