As we strive to become leaders in real estate, we inevitably bump up against obstacles that will hinder our progress and upset our course.

John Maxwell, author of many business leadership books, has spoken about the crucible. - a moment in life that proves the leadership capacity of a person. It is an opportunity, test or crisis that summons our very best and reveals our finest qualities. The process of a crucible transforms us forever. It is what you will hate while you are going through and embrace after you have been through it. 

Simply, a crucible is an instrument used to refine materials (i.e. gold). The leadership crucible we go through will refine us. The leadership crucible has a few qualities: 

• Crucibles happen to everyone in one form or another- leadership has to be tested and proven. It forms us, it develops us. • Crucibles are voluntary or involuntary. Proving moments come to us, ready or not. 

• Reveal the hidden potential inside a person- Crucibles don’t make us they simply reveal what’s already there. • Usually bring great difficulties and stress- the good news is that experience will lessen the stress. 

• Purify motives and shape ambitions- gets out what’s really important • They teach lessons that help leaders transcend themselves- allows us do things that we have not done for ourselves. 

• They either become an obstacle or opportunity to fulfill ones purpose- they help us or hurt us, make us or break us, or are an asset or a liabilityHow do leaders prevail in a crucible? They retain hope, wonder and excitement for life. They have the ability to see the bigger picture meaning. They believe that something better is ahead. They have the ability to understand the situation and adjust ones course.

The market conditions we face today is a crucible. Certainly not voluntary-but here we are. If you can make it through this crucible, learn and draw from it, it will certainly add value to your career and business. It will make you a leader in this industry.