If you’ve been in this business long enough, you know the fundamentals don’t change—but the strategy must. We’ve operated in challenging markets before. What makes today’s environment particularly complex is the prolonged uncertainty around monetary policy, combined with rising costs, inconsistent asset performance, and mounting pressure from capital partners to deliver results.

The easy move is to wait. To preserve capital. To delay decisions. But in many cases, that “safe” choice could prove riskier than it seems. Inaction in this environment can quietly erode performance—whether through reduced cashflow, missed refinancing windows, or declining asset value due to deferred investment. The challenge, then, is to identify where real risk exists, and where opportunity is simply hiding behind discomfort.

Start with Understanding Your Real Exposure

Balancing risk starts with knowing exactly where you stand. That means taking a hard look at your debt structure, lease maturity schedules, tenant exposure, and operating performance under current and future rate scenarios.

Tools like business intelligence (BI), artificial intelligence (AI), and human intelligence (HI) work best in tandem here. You need more than just raw data—you need insights informed by experience. These help you model scenarios, assess downside protection, and create frameworks that allow for calculated action, rather than reactive decisions.

Ask yourself:

• How rate-sensitive is my current debt portfolio?
• What refinancing risks will I face in the next 12–18 months?
• How do my operating fundamentals hold up if rates stay elevated through 2025?
• Where am I sitting on idle capital or unleveraged equity?

These questions form the basis for rational, strategic planning in an otherwise emotional market.

Look for Opportunity in the Gaps

Once you have clarity on your exposure, the next step is targeted opportunity identification. In this climate, it’s less about finding perfect deals and more about identifying asymmetrical upside—where the risk is manageable, but the potential returns are significant.

That could mean:

• Acquiring distressed or mismanaged assets where the underwriting remains strong
• Restructuring debt to unlock liquidity or extend runway
• Optimizing operational efficiencies to boost NOI and preserve valuation
• Investing in tech or analytics that improve decision-making at the asset or portfolio level

We’re seeing operators use creative approaches to extend loan terms, optimize cap structures, and even convert risk into leverage with select lenders. Some are choosing to proactively recapitalize projects, while others are taking smaller, high-conviction bets in emerging submarkets or niche asset classes.

The thread that connects all of them? They’re acting with intention—not waiting for the market to make the call for them.

Accepting That Risk Will Always Be Present

One mindset shift I’ve found helpful—both personally and across the companies I’ve built—is this: risk never disappears. It just changes form. High-rate environments come with one kind of risk. Low-rate environments come with another. What sets great operators apart is how they anticipate, measure, and adapt.

In this moment, the priority is to avoid binary thinking. We don’t need to go all-in, and we don’t need to sit on the sidelines. Instead, we need to adopt disciplined flexibility—backed by real-time data and clear strategic goals.

That’s why the most forward-thinking firms I know are investing just as much in their decision-making processes as they are in their actual investments. They’re refining how they gather intel, how they model scenarios, and how they communicate strategy internally and externally.

Final Thoughts: Precision Over Paralysis

The high-rate environment we’re operating in will eventually shift—but how you position yourself today will define how you perform when it does.

So, as you evaluate your own portfolio or organization, consider this: Are you navigating from a place of fear, or from a place of clarity? Can you separate true risk from noise? And are you prepared to seize the right opportunities when they appear?

In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, one principle has become clear: being proactive is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. In an age where markets, economic policies, and industry dynamics change rapidly, the organizations that succeed are those that not only adapt quickly but also anticipate challenges before they even appear. Proactivity is the key to unlocking both long-term growth and short-term success.

In my experience, proactivity is about acting before the market demands it, using data to forecast shifts, and strategically positioning your company for the best possible outcomes. When we talk about being proactive in the context of commercial real estate, it’s not just about responding to external pressures; it’s about creating internal momentum that keeps your organization ahead of the game. Whether it’s anticipating changes in interest rates, adjusting your debt structure before market conditions change, or repositioning your business to meet evolving demand, proactivity is the foundation of successful strategy.

All About Being Proactive

Proactive debt management is a prime example of how businesses can position themselves for success. Instead of waiting until the last minute to refinance or restructure debt, savvy companies anticipate future market shifts, such as rate hikes or economic downturns, and adjust accordingly. Proactive debt management means matching your property’s cashflows with the optimal debt structure, ensuring that debt obligations align with current and future financial conditions. For example, locking in favorable rates before anticipated Fed rate cuts or utilizing forward hedging strategies helps businesses mitigate risk and seize opportunities ahead of competitors. Furthermore, regularly assessing and optimizing your debt portfolio to reflect the evolving market ensures that your financial strategy supports broader business objectives, fostering long-term stability and growth.

But it doesn’t stop with finance. Operational proactivity is just as critical. In today’s world, we have access to an unprecedented amount of data—from market conditions to customer behavior to internal financial performance. Using business intelligence (BI), artificial intelligence (AI), and human intelligence (HI) allows us to make data-driven decisions that keep our businesses agile and ahead of any market disruption. Whether it’s streamlining workflows, optimizing cashflow, or reducing costs, being proactive means continuously using these insights to make adjustments that keep your company running smoothly.

In terms of growth strategies, being proactive means identifying opportunities before they become obvious. Strategic acquisitions, entering new markets, or leveraging emerging technologies require foresight. Proactive leaders know that success is about positioning themselves where the market is headed, not where it is right now. They’re constantly scanning the horizon for new trends and opportunities and have the foresight to act before others even recognize the shift. Whether it’s adjusting your company’s portfolio to align with new customer preferences or embracing new technologies that streamline operations, proactive businesses are always planning several steps ahead.

Lastly, proactive leadership is crucial in driving these strategies forward. Leaders who adopt a proactive approach foster a company-wide mindset of innovation and agility. By aligning their team around a shared vision and empowering them to anticipate challenges, leaders create a resilient culture that doesn’t just survive disruption but thrives in the face of it. Proactive leadership involves not just making decisions based on data but also continuously reevaluating the environment and adjusting strategies. It’s about thinking outside the box and addressing problems before they become issues. It’s about taking calculated risks, knowing that uncertainty can be an opportunity, and trusting your team to adapt quickly.

Next Steps

In today’s fast-paced, constantly changing world, organizations that embrace a proactive mindset don’t just succeed—they lead the way. The companies that thrive will be those who anticipate change, embrace innovation, and stay one step ahead of competitors. As we look to the future, remember that being proactive is the key to unlocking your organization’s potential and staying ahead of the curve.

What steps are you taking to implement a proactive strategy in your organization? How have you seen proactivity drive success for your team or company?

As we move further into 2025, it’s more important than ever to recognize that the market is constantly evolving. The pace of change—be it technological advancements, market dynamics, regulatory shifts, or client expectations—has never been faster. The ability to adapt and stay relevant in this ever-evolving landscape requires a commitment to continuous learning.

In commercial real estate, this principle is particularly crucial. Whether you’re an investor, developer, broker, or operator, staying ahead of the curve through continuous learning can make all the difference in maintaining your competitive edge and achieving sustained success.

Why Continuous Learning Matters

1. Adapting to Market Shifts: The real estate market is in a constant state of flux. From fluctuating interest rates to new regulations or emerging technologies, staying informed allows you to anticipate market changes before they hit. Being proactive rather than reactive helps you make smarter decisions, position your assets better, and stay resilient during economic uncertainty.
2. Leveraging New Technologies: Technology is reshaping industries, and CRE is no exception. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation tools are transforming how we analyze data, make decisions, and manage properties. Those who fail to learn how to integrate these technologies risk falling behind. Continuous learning empowers you to leverage new tools that drive efficiencies and improve results.
3. Enhancing Strategic Thinking: By consistently learning, you can build a more comprehensive understanding of market trends, investment strategies, and business practices. This knowledge doesn’t just help you react to market conditions—it helps you think strategically, enabling you to create innovative solutions and stay ahead of your competitors.
4. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: In an industry where people are the driving force behind success, fostering a culture of learning within your organization is key. Teams that prioritize learning are more engaged, adaptable, and productive. When employees see that you are committed to helping them grow professionally, they are more likely to stay loyal to your business, which in turn reduces turnover and increases performance.
5. Long-Term Career Growth: For those of us in leadership roles, continuous learning is not just a business strategy; it’s a personal one too. The more you learn, the more you grow as a professional and as a leader. From expanding your expertise to adapting to new industry standards, ongoing education is essential for advancing your career and building a legacy in the field.

How to Cultivate a Learning Mindset

1. Commit to Regular Education: Whether it’s through industry conferences, online courses, books, or podcasts, make learning a part of your routine. Allocate specific time for personal development each week.
2. Foster a Learning Culture: Encourage your teams to invest in their professional growth. Create an environment where asking questions and seeking new knowledge is celebrated. This can be done through mentorship, training programs, or offering resources for self-paced learning.
3. Stay Curious: Embrace curiosity. Read industry reports, follow thought leaders, and be proactive in seeking new perspectives. Continuous learning starts with the desire to know more, whether it’s about market trends, technology, or leadership.
4. Be Open to Change: It’s easy to fall into routines, but innovation thrives in environments that embrace change. Be open to adjusting your strategies and workflows based on new information and learnings. Flexibility will be your greatest asset.

The Bottom Line

In an ever-evolving market, continuous learning isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Those who prioritize ongoing education are better equipped to navigate change, seize opportunities, and lead in their fields. Whether you’re learning new technologies, understanding market shifts, or building leadership skills, the pursuit of knowledge will fuel your success and help you stay ahead of the competition.

As we move forward into 2025 and beyond, I encourage you to reflect on your own learning journey. What new skills or insights do you plan to pursue this year? How are you integrating learning into your daily practices?

In commercial real estate, setbacks, mistakes, and things not going according to plan are inevitable. Whether it’s a project that underperforms, a market shift that wasn’t anticipated, or a decision that didn’t yield the expected return, failure can feel like a roadblock. But instead of letting failure define us, we can choose to turn it into one of our most powerful tools for future success. This is something I’ve witnessed firsthand in the industry, and I believe that when approached correctly, failure can be a transformative opportunity.

In CRE, failure doesn’t have to be a dead-end; it can be a stepping stone to even greater things. The key is learning from the experience, adjusting your approach, and using that knowledge to take smarter, more calculated risks moving forward.

Here’s why embracing failure is vital to success:

1) Failure Cultivates Resilience

Commercial real estate is a high-stakes industry, full of uncertainty. Decisions are often based on variables we cannot control—market trends, interest rates, global factors. Despite the best strategies, things won’t always go as planned. But resilience is what allows us to weather these storms. The real power of resilience lies in the ability to bounce back, adjust your strategy, and continue moving forward with renewed clarity. Resilience, forged in the fire of failure, is what helps us transform setbacks into future opportunities.

When we go through failures, we develop the ability to roll with the punches, stay focused on long-term goals, and not get bogged down by immediate challenges. That’s the mindset shift that makes all the difference in CRE—failure doesn’t stop us; it strengthens us for the journey ahead.

2) Learning from Mistakes Leads to Smarter Decisions

It’s easy to fall into the trap of viewing mistakes and failures as personal shortcomings or missed opportunities. But when we approach failure from a growth perspective, we unlock a treasure trove of insights. Each failure is a lesson, a map guiding us to make better decisions the next time. In CRE, this means learning from past investments that didn’t pan out or transactions that didn’t meet projected returns.

The best CRE professionals don’t just make smarter decisions—they make better decisions faster because they’ve learned from previous mistakes. They evaluate what went wrong, pinpoint key takeaways, and apply those lessons to future deals. So rather than fearing failure, we need to embrace it as an opportunity to refine our decision-making process and accelerate our learning curve. By doing so, we reduce the chances of making the same mistake twice.

3) Failure Encourages Innovation and Creativity

Sometimes, failure is the spark that ignites creativity. In CRE, when one approach doesn’t work, it forces us to innovate. Whether it’s adjusting the structure of a deal, rethinking an investment strategy, or finding new ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency, adversity encourages us to think outside the box.

I’ve seen companies push through failure and come up with groundbreaking solutions that may not have been considered if they hadn’t hit a wall. Necessity is the mother of invention, after all. When something doesn’t go as planned, we’re pushed to find new ways to solve problems, opening doors to innovative solutions that might otherwise have remained closed.

4) Building a Culture That Embraces Failure

As leaders in the CRE industry, we have a responsibility to create a culture where failure is seen as an opportunity for growth, not something to be feared. When we build an environment that encourages risk-taking and learning from setbacks, we cultivate stronger, more resilient teams. A team that’s not afraid to fail is a team that’s willing to innovate, collaborate, and push boundaries.

When failure is seen as a natural part of the process, employees feel more empowered to experiment and take calculated risks. The result? A dynamic, forward-thinking company that can quickly adapt to market changes and seize new opportunities. In CRE, where the landscape is always shifting, this adaptability is essential for long-term success.

5) The Power of Failing Forward

In CRE, it’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t go according to plan. But here’s the truth: you’re not really failing unless you give up. Embracing failure as a part of your journey means failing forward—learning from mistakes and using them to propel yourself toward your goals. By doing this, you unlock a mindset of continual improvement and progress, and every setback becomes part of your eventual success.

This mindset is what drives the best in CRE—those who are constantly evaluating and adapting, pushing through temporary setbacks, and finding better, smarter ways to do business. Failure is a teacher, and if we learn its lessons, we can go further, faster.

6) Turning Adversity Into Advantage

The road to success in CRE is rarely a straight line. Instead, it’s filled with bumps, detours, and challenges. The difference between those who succeed and those who struggle is often their ability to turn adversity into advantage. When you experience a setback, assess it with a clear mind, understand the lessons it offers, and use that knowledge to adjust your strategy and move forward stronger. Each failure brings with it a chance to grow, adapt, and refine your approach.

What challenges have you faced in CRE, and how have you turned them into opportunities?

In today’s fast-paced market, having a clear focus on what truly drives success is essential. But it’s not enough to have high-level goals. We need to ensure that every team member, regardless of role or department, understands the mission and how their actions contribute to achieving it. This is where OKRs and KPIs come into play. By implementing these frameworks, businesses can ensure alignment, drive accountability, and measure performance in real-time.

Why OKRs and KPIs Matter

OKRs give you a roadmap for success. They outline your organization’s most important goals and set measurable outcomes to track progress toward achieving them. By providing clear direction and focus, OKRs make sure everyone understands what needs to be done, why it’s important, and how they can contribute to its success.

On the other hand, KPIs are the pulse of your day-to-day operations. These metrics help track the specific actions and behaviors that drive your OKRs. KPIs are about monitoring performance in real-time, making it easier for teams to identify roadblocks or opportunities before they become bigger issues. The right KPIs ensure that your team’s actions are always aligned with the broader objectives of the company.

When used together, OKRs and KPIs help create a seamless connection between strategic goals and tactical actions, ensuring that everyone is not only on the same page, but also working towards the same mission.

OKRs and KPIs in Action

Consider a commercial real estate firm aiming to increase its property portfolio and improve tenant retention. A strategic objective might be to “Increase leasing rates by 15% over the next quarter.” This objective is clear, measurable, and time-bound, making it an ideal candidate for an OKR. The key results to track this objective might include increasing occupancy rates by a specific percentage and achieving a tenant satisfaction score of 90% or higher.

KPIs for this objective could include the number of leases signed, average lease duration, or response time to tenant inquiries. By focusing on these KPIs, the teams directly involved in tenant relations and leasing will have actionable metrics that tie back to the overall goal. The KPIs become the vehicle that helps your team drive results while the OKRs provide the roadmap.

Practical Steps to Implement OKRs and KPIs

1. Set Clear, Actionable Objectives:Start by identifying your most important goals. Ensure they are specific, measurable, and achievable within a set timeframe. These objectives should challenge your team but be attainable with the right resources.
2. Define Key Results:Each objective needs key results that clearly indicate when the goal has been achieved. These results should be quantifiable, such as “Increase revenue by 10%” or “Achieve 90% customer satisfaction.”
3. Establish KPIs:KPIs track the actions that drive the key results. For instance, if your objective is to increase revenue, your KPIs might include the number of new clients acquired, the percentage of repeat business, or lead conversion rates.
4. Align and Engage Your Teams:Make sure every department, team, and individual understands the OKRs and KPIs, and knows how their work contributes to achieving them. This creates a culture of collaboration, alignment, and accountability.
5. Monitor and Adjust:OKRs and KPIs are not static. They need to be continuously tracked and adjusted based on performance and changing market conditions. Regular check-ins and evaluations are critical for maintaining momentum and adapting to challenges.

Why OKRs and KPIs Are a Game-Changer

In an environment of constant change, it’s essential for organizations to not only set strategic goals but to also have the right metrics in place to track performance and adjust tactics accordingly. OKRs and KPIs give your teams the clarity, focus, and real-time insight they need to drive success.

When implemented correctly, OKRs and KPIs can serve as the foundation for a high-performance culture. They help individuals understand how their work contributes to larger company goals, creating alignment and motivation throughout the organization. Teams become more agile, more focused, and more committed to achieving the shared mission.

Moving Forward with Confidence

As we begin to navigate 2025, embracing OKRs and KPIs can empower your team to stay focused, adapt quickly, and achieve measurable success. These frameworks are powerful tools for aligning your team and achieving consistent results, whether you’re navigating market uncertainty or pursuing ambitious growth objectives.

As we enter 2025, the commercial real estate landscape is entering a new phase of evolution, shaped by dynamic market forces, shifting economic conditions, and the increasing influence of technology. Success in the coming year will hinge on the ability to anticipate trends, adapt strategies, and take decisive action.

Anticipation as a Competitive Advantage

Anticipating change gives CRE professionals the ability to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s preparing for economic shifts, embracing emerging technologies, or adapting to evolving tenant needs, foresight is the foundation for building resilience and seizing opportunities. It’s not just about reacting to what’s happening—it’s about proactively positioning yourself and your portfolio for what’s next.

Three Key Areas to Watch in 2025:

1. The Impact of Interest Rates and Financing Strategies: Interest rates are expected to remain a major focal point in 2025. With rate fluctuations affecting cap rates, financing costs, and overall deal structures, staying ahead of these changes will be critical. Monitoring the forward curve, reevaluating debt positions, and leveraging hedging tools like caps and swaps will help mitigate risks and protect margins. Firms that prioritize debt optimization will be better equipped to navigate financial complexities and capitalize on opportunities.
2. Operational Excellence Powered by Data:In a competitive market, understanding the drivers of performance—both within your portfolio and across the broader market—is essential. Data analytics and benchmarking will be key to identifying underperforming assets, reducing inefficiencies, and improving NOI. Whether it’s comparing operating expenses to peer properties or monitoring tenant satisfaction, data-backed insights will guide decision-making and ensure resources are allocated effectively.
3. Emerging Opportunities in Niche Markets and Asset Classes:Economic transitions often create pockets of opportunity, particularly in niche markets. Workforce housing, senior living, and climate-resilient properties are just a few areas expected to see growth in 2025. Additionally, keeping an eye on demographic shifts and migration patterns can help CRE professionals identify undervalued markets or asset classes poised for long-term success.

The Role of Agility and Innovation in 2025

If 2024 reinforced anything, it’s that agility is critical for thriving in uncertain times. Companies that can pivot quickly, embrace change, and adapt strategies will be positioned to succeed. This agility isn’t just about being flexible; it’s about having the right tools, processes, and mindset to act decisively.

Technology will also play an increasingly central role. From leveraging real-time data for forecasting to implementing automation in operations, technology can simplify complex tasks and provide a clearer picture of the road ahead. Yet, true innovation goes beyond adopting new tools—it’s about rethinking traditional approaches and applying fresh ideas to old problems.

Your 2025 Playbook: Anticipate, Plan, and Execute

As you prepare for the year ahead, consider these key actions to position your firm for success:

• Monitor market dynamics:Stay informed on interest rate trends, economic indicators, and sector-specific developments to anticipate shifts.

• Invest in data analytics:Use benchmarking tools and performance insights to optimize your portfolio and identify opportunities.

• Embrace proactive risk management:Leverage financial instruments and structured strategies to mitigate uncertainties.

• Explore new opportunities:Look beyond traditional markets and asset classes to discover untapped potential.

• Foster collaboration and innovation:Encourage your teams to think creatively and share insights that can drive collective success.

Engage with the CRE Community

What are your expectations for 2025? Are there specific trends, challenges, or opportunities you’re watching closely?

As we start a new year, it’s a natural time to reflect, reset, and strategize for what lies ahead. Setting yourself and your organization up for success in 2025 isn’t just about lofty resolutions—it’s about creating a deliberate, actionable plan that aligns your goals with your opportunities and resources.

That’s where OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) come into play, providing a framework to stay focused, aligned, and adaptable.

Here are some strategies to help you set yourself and your organization up for success in the New Year (or you can try this quick OKR generatorto get started):

1. Reflect on 2024 and Identify Key Objectives

Start by evaluating the past year with an honest lens. What went well? What challenges did you face? Which goals were achieved, and where did you fall short? Use these insights to shape strategic Objectives that will guide your efforts in 2025.

For example, if your team struggled with inefficiencies, you might set an Objective like, “Improve operational efficiency to boost productivity and reduce costs”. By keeping Objectives clear and meaningful, you ensure they inspire action and align with your overall vision.

2. Set Measurable Key Results

Objectives without measurable outcomes are just ideas. Break each Objective into Key Results—specific, quantifiable benchmarks to track your progress. These should challenge your team but remain realistic and achievable.

For instance:

Objective: Expand into two new markets by Q3.

• Key Result 1: Identify and evaluate five potential target markets by March.

• Key Result 2: Secure market entry into two locations by September.

• Key Result 3: Generate $1M in revenue from new markets by year-end.

By connecting each Objective with actionable Key Results, you create a roadmap for success that everyone can follow.

3. Align Teams Around Shared OKRs

OKRs aren’t just for leadership—they work best when the entire organization is aligned around them. Share your Objectives across teams and encourage them to set their own supporting Key Results. This creates a culture of accountability and ensures every team member understands how their work contributes to the bigger picture.

For example, while leadership may focus on entering new markets, the marketing team’s Key Results might involve launching localized campaigns, and the operations team might focus on building vendor relationships in those regions.

4. Leverage Data to Inform and Refine Your OKRs

Data is the foundation of successful OKRs. Use Business Intelligence (BI) to track performance in real-time, Artificial Intelligence (AI) to forecast trends, and Human Intelligence (HI) to apply real-world insights. This combination of tools ensures your Objectives and Key Results are rooted in reality and adaptable to changing circumstances.

For example, tracking real-time data on occupancy rates and operating expenses can help you refine Key Results for optimizing cashflow or managing debt.

5. Embrace Flexibility and Continuous Improvement

The new year will undoubtedly bring unforeseen challenges and opportunities. Build flexibility into your OKRs by scheduling regular check-ins to assess progress and adjust Key Results as needed. This iterative approach keeps your strategy dynamic and responsive to external shifts, ensuring you stay on track even in uncertain conditions.

For instance, if interest rates or market conditions shift, your Key Results for debt optimization may need to change mid-year. By revisiting your OKRs regularly, you ensure they remain relevant and actionable.

2025 is the year to turn ambition into action.With OKRs, you can bring clarity, focus, and alignment to your goals, ensuring your team is ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

What OKRs are you setting for the New Year? How do you plan to align your team and drive success?

As the year winds down, I want to take a moment to explore the importance of self-reflection and gratitude — two principles that can fuel both personal and professional growth in the commercial real estate industry and beyond.

The Power of Reflection

Self-reflection is more than a personal habit; it’s a strategic advantage. By taking a step back to analyze our experiences, we gain clarity on what worked, where we faced challenges, and how we can refine our approach moving forward. In an industry like CRE, where markets shift rapidly, capital flows can fluctuate, and decisions carry significant weight, reflection allows us to uncover hidden opportunities and align our efforts with long-term goals.

Take time to ask yourself—and your team—key questions:

• What milestones did we reach this year, and what factors led to our success?

• What obstacles did we face, and how did we adapt or learn from them?

• Are we still aligned with our values and broader objectives for the future?

These questions encourage clarity and ensure we’re not just moving forward, but moving forward with purpose. Reflection can be the difference between reacting to market conditions and proactively shaping strategies for sustained success.

Gratitude as a Growth Strategy

While gratitude often feels like a personal virtue, it’s also a powerful professional mindset. In commercial real estate—an industry driven by relationships—genuine appreciation can strengthen trust, loyalty, and collaboration with investors, clients, tenants, and employees alike. Gratitude fosters stronger connections and creates a culture where people feel valued, motivated, and engaged.

Consider small but meaningful ways to infuse gratitude into your work:

• Recognize and celebrate your team’s efforts, both privately and publicly. Acknowledgment goes a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing hard work.

• Express thanks to your clients and partners for their trust, collaboration, and shared successes.

• Reflect on the mentors, peers, and even competitors who have inspired, challenged, or guided you along the way.

Gratitude doesn’t just help us look back—it also builds resilience and optimism for the future, providing the motivation to tackle new challenges with a positive perspective.

A Unified Approach

When combined, self-reflection and gratitude form a powerful foundation for sustainable success. Reflection ensures we’re learning, adapting, and improving, while gratitude keeps us grounded, connected, and inspired by the relationships and experiences that matter most. Together, they help us move into the new year with intention, clarity, and purpose.

As you look ahead to 2025, I encourage you to schedule time for both reflection and gratitude. Set aside a moment to refine your strategies, celebrate progress, and recognize the people who’ve contributed to your growth.

As we look to the future of commercial real estate, one thing is abundantly clear: the next generation will be tasked with navigating an industry in constant evolution. With the Fall semester of The Academy of CRE Finance & Innovationcoming to a close, it’s inspiring to see how emerging talent is already rising to the challenge, equipping themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive. From embracing cutting-edge technologies to adapting to market uncertainties, the leaders of tomorrow will need to be more agile, innovative, and insightful than ever. The question is, how do we empower them to succeed?

At its core, empowerment begins with opportunity. We must create spaces for emerging talent to learn, grow, and lead. Whether it’s through mentorship, education, or offering real-world experience, our role as industry veterans is to pave the way for the rising generation to build upon the foundation we’ve laid.

Here are three actionable ways we can invest in the next wave of CRE professionals:

1. Mentorship That Matters

True mentorship goes beyond occasional check-ins. It’s about fostering relationships that provide guidance, share knowledge, and inspire growth. Mentorship should include open conversations about successes, failures, and the invaluable lessons learned from both. These relationships give younger professionals the confidence to take calculated risks and think critically.

Who’s someone you can mentor today?A small investment of your time could be a game-changer for their career.

2. Education That Evolves

The landscape of CRE is shifting rapidly, with technology and data becoming indispensable tools. We must ensure that tomorrow’s leaders are equipped with the skills needed to harness these advancements effectively. Encouraging ongoing education, from formal degrees to industry certifications and hands-on learning, helps prepare the next generation for the challenges ahead.

What are you doing to stay ahead of the curve, and how can you share those resources with others in your organization?

3. Opportunities That Challenge

Nothing replaces the value of real-world experience. Allowing young professionals to take ownership of projects, make decisions, and solve problems fosters accountability and confidence. It also helps them develop the critical thinking skills that will define their leadership style.

How can you delegate effectively to provide these growth opportunities?

The Ripple Effect

Empowering the next generation isn’t just about their success — it’s about the sustainability and growth of the entire CRE industry. A rising tide lifts all boats, and the better prepared these future leaders are, the stronger our collective future will be. Together, we can ensure that the future of CRE is bright, innovative, and resilient.

What steps are you taking to empower the next generation within your organization or community?

The commercial real estate landscape has been experiencing continued volatility, from fluctuating interest rates to shifting market demands. Navigating these choppy waters requires not just strategic planning but also resilient, compassionate leadership. In times like these, people look to leaders for guidance, stability, and a clear sense of direction. To that end, I want to share some key principles that help reinforce the leadership we need in times of uncertainty.

1. Communicate with Transparency and Consistency

When markets are unpredictable, clarity is paramount. Leaders must communicate regularly and openly with their teams, even if that means acknowledging unknowns. Share what you know, what’s still unfolding, and what steps are being taken to respond to new developments. Consistent, honest communication reassures your team that they’re in the loop, building trust and keeping them focused on shared goals, even amid uncertainty.

2. Foster Resilience and Adaptability

Resilience and adaptability go hand in hand, especially when dealing with fast-changing circumstances. Encourage a growth mindset within your organization. Promote resilience by empowering your team to pivot when needed and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Being adaptable in the face of adversity shows your team that it’s okay to adjust course, experiment, and find new ways to deliver value. When your people see that you’re willing to adapt, it cultivates a culture of resourcefulness and innovation.

3. Keep the Long-Term Vision Front and Center

While short-term adjustments are often necessary, keeping your team aligned with the long-term vision can provide stability and motivation. As a leader, it’s your job to remind everyone of the ultimate goals, reinforcing why you’re navigating the changes in the first place. Emphasizing this broader purpose helps to sustain morale and guides decision-making, ensuring that short-term sacrifices align with the overarching mission.

4. Lead by Example with Calm and Confidence

In uncertain times, teams look to leaders to set the emotional tone. If you can maintain calm and project confidence, your team will be more likely to follow suit. Demonstrate a steady hand, even when the path ahead is unclear. This doesn’t mean ignoring challenges or pretending everything is fine; rather, it’s about approaching difficulties with a solutions-oriented mindset and showing your team that there’s a constructive path forward.

5. Prioritize Employee Well-being and Support

In times of stress, the well-being of your team is more important than ever. Check in with employees regularly, offer support where possible, and encourage a balanced approach to workload. Recognize that your people are dealing with personal and professional uncertainties and show understanding and flexibility. A leader who cares about their team’s well-being creates a more engaged, loyal, and productive workforce.

6. Empower Decision-Making at All Levels

During times of uncertainty, agile decision-making is essential. Equip and empower your team members to make decisions at their levels, which can speed up responses to changing conditions and enhance organizational resilience. Encourage initiative and provide the resources or guidance they need to act confidently. This approach not only helps your organization adapt quickly but also instills a sense of ownership and accountability among your team.

7. Focus on What You Can Control

Uncertainty often stems from external factors beyond your control. While it’s important to stay informed and aware of broader market conditions, focusing on what you can control will yield the most impact. Direct your energy and resources toward optimizing internal processes, strengthening customer relationships, and leveraging your team’s strengths. By focusing on these factors, you keep your organization grounded and productive, even in challenging times.

Leading during uncertain times isn’t easy, but it’s an opportunity to build trust, resilience, and long-term loyalty.  What leadership strategies have worked well for you?