Some years ago, I read a passage in a book that said: “I don’t know why so many people are afraid of change when it’s the only constant they’re assured in life”.
It flipped a switch in me.
As an awkward socially-conscripted introvert living behind highly performative masks, much of my day-to-day reality was spent partially paralyzed over my fear of change while unconvincingly pretending it wasn’t. But, after reading that book, I began to look at change like it was an adventure, and I decided that embracing it would invite me to live my best life. Another well-known chap expressed a similar sentiment:
Since then, I’m almost always on board to explore new things and take a risk simply by saying ‘Yes!’. And no, it didn’t result in a personality makeover. I’m still the introvert who’s prone to feeling the anxious, and waves of awkward still wash over me when I’m walking into unfamiliar social situations alone. However, I’m quick to share with people who see me looking like a deer caught in headlights that I’m doing my best to navigate my social anxiety. And, as it turns out, expressing that vulnerability usually opens the door for others to express empathy, kindness, and their own story. Being your authentic self invites others to be the same, even when it includes sharing your fear of the unknown.
Which – during a global pandemic – is more important than ever before.
As the world struggles to contain and eradicate COVID-19 – experiencing successes and failures in equal measure – what we understand about the pathogen continues to evolve. What we know for certain is that the way we live our daily lives, both domestically and professionally, will never be the same. There has been too much of a fundamental shift in our understanding of the world and its vulnerabilities to ever ‘go back’.
Given my ongoing relationship with change, I’m obsessed with how quickly the world is transforming (particularly in real estate) while we navigate this health crisis. This fascination is primarily what has inspired me to write so many blogs on the intersection of COVID-19 and Toronto Real Estate.
Sometimes I still feel a bit adrift, given we’re collectively charting a new course into the unknown, but I’m 51% optimistic (I’m a half glass full kind of guy), filled with gratitude (to be Canadian), and curious to see if society can emerge a better version of itself (starting with universal basic income).
*Gif courtesy of Alyssa Edwards & Camp TAZO
What are my thoughts? Here are my posts on the subject since the March 2020 Lockdown:
Dear Urbaneer: How Do I Know This Is The Right Home To Buy?
The Need And Demand For Live/Work Properties In Toronto
How Urbaneer’s Tailored Toronto Real Estate Marketing Sold This Condo During The Pandemic
WHO Changes Guidance On Possibility Of Airborne Transmission Of COVID-19
Demand For ‘Forever Homes’ In Toronto’s Downtown Family Neighbourhoods Persists Despite COVID-19
How COVID-19 Will Likely Change How We Design Our Homes
Dear Urbaneer: Can I Catch COVID-19 From HVAC Systems?
With COVID-19 Outbreaks In Long-Term Care Facilities, Is Multi-Generational Housing Better?
Healthy Home: The Irony Of Navigating COVID-19 On The 50th Anniversary Of Earth Day
Assess Your Risk: Buying & Selling Toronto Real Estate During The COVID-19 Pandemic
The Role Of Fiscal Stimulus During COVID-19 And Toronto Real Estate
Access To Support & City Offices During COVID-19 For Toronto Real Estate
March 2020 Toronto Regional Real Estate Statistics: Before & After COVID-19 Arrived
How Canada’s Big Banks Are Responding To The COVID-19 Pandemic Panic
Consider A Mini-Home-Makeover To Feel More Comfortable During Self-Isolation With COVID-19
*Stay tuned for an upcoming post on how COVID-19 may influence the design of Toronto’s built environment, and the need to allow ‘live/work’ zoning in areas currently zoned ‘residential’ and ‘commercial’!*
May my team and I be your realtors of choice?
With a multi-disciplinary education in housing – including urban history, urban planning, and urban residential design – plus over 25 years experience helping Buyers and Sellers navigate the Toronto real estate market, we offer excellence, insight, and a commitment to gently guide you, and those you love, without pressure or hassle.
Thanks for reading!
-The Urbaneer Team
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000
– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –
*Did you know we were recently listed as one of The Top 25 Toronto Real Estate Agents To Follow On Twitter! – The Top 50 Blogs On Toronto – and The Top 100 Real Estate Blogs In Canada? Consider signing up in the box below to receive our FREE monthly e-newsletter on housing, culture and design including our love for unique urban homes and other Toronto real estate!
*Love Canadian Housing? Check out Steve’s University Student Mentorship site called Houseporn.ca which focuses on architecture, landscape, design, products and real estate in Canada.