Overcoming the Guilt of Success in Multifamily Property Management

Photo by Miguel Bruna on Unsplash

Success in the multifamily property management industry can bring a sense of accomplishment and pride. It can also bring financial benefits, such as increased income and opportunities for advancement. However, success in this field can also bring feelings of guilt, especially when it comes at the expense of others or involves sacrifices that may have negative consequences.

Unfair Benefit

Property managers may feel guilty about their success because they believe they have benefited unfairly at the expense of others. This can be particularly true when success is seen as a zero-sum game, where one person’s gain is perceived as another person’s loss. For example, if a property manager can secure a new contract for their company, they may feel guilty about taking the opportunity away from a competitor.

Sacrifice

Another reason property managers may feel guilty about their success is that they had to make sacrifices to achieve it. These sacrifices may have had negative consequences for themselves or others. For example, a property manager who works long hours to meet the demands of their job may feel guilty about the time they cannot spend with their family or friends. Similarly, a property manager who takes on additional responsibilities to grow their business may feel guilty about the additional stress and workload they place on themselves and their coworkers.

Not A Zero Sum Game

It’s essential to recognize that feelings of guilt about success in the multifamily property management industry are natural and normal. However, it’s also important to remember that success is not always a zero-sum game and that our sacrifices to achieve it may ultimately be worth it. It’s okay to celebrate your success and the hard work that got you there as long as you are mindful of the impact your actions may have on others and take steps to mitigate any negative consequences.

At the same time, knowing the privileges and advantages that may have contributed to your success is important. Acknowledging and being grateful for these privileges can help alleviate guilt. It’s also important to remember that success is not the only measure of worth or happiness and to focus on finding balance and fulfillment in all aspects of your life.