Buyer’s Remorse
Years ago, I sold large tracts of land to people for their retirement and vacation homes. This purchase, anchored in emotion, was the product of the Buyers having saved, planned, and projected for many years what it would mean to them, how they would use the property, who would visit them there, and what memories they would make. It was a big deal.
Upon their signing the purchase agreement and after them having slid a hefty deposit check across the table, I would subtly prepare them for what they would likely experience on their trek back home which was usually several hours away. In fact, I would jokingly share with them that if they didn’t have this experience, there might be something wrong with them.
Anytime you buy something greater than a refrigerator, buyer’s remorse can, and usually does, take over. It’s a powerful feeling that causes you to question everything, including your sanity, in having even made the purchase to begin with. You forget about the intention behind the why of the purchase and the emotion that was present when you agreed to buy the darn thing is nowhere to be found. It is the primary cause for cancellation of transactions involving homes, cars, vacations, and yes, even refrigerators. But, if you know it’s coming and you are prepared for the angst that is to follow, it easily dissipates to the back of your mind as you regain focus on the joyous and emotional parts of your experience in having actually signed on the dotted line.
My Buyers always knew it was coming. Oftentimes, they would call me on their drive home chuckling at the fact that they had just worked through it in their minds and would then confirm that they were elated with their decision and excited about the investment they had made in their future.
On the subject of investments, I would argue that committing to personal growth is the greatest investment a person can make for their future selves but, it’s not for the faint of heart. In fact, it’s hard work. Embarking on any type of personal transformation invariably brings about a sense of discomfort whereas one might say, “Whoa! This is hard. I did not sign up for this!” Hence, the on again/off again cycle of attempts that ensues as we as individuals pursue peace, clarity, and our wildest dreams.
I’m here to tell you that working through that discomfort is where the good stuff is. THAT is the turning point that leads to substantive change.
When it gets hard, and it will: Do. Not. Quit.
With your eye on the prize and your jaw clenched if you need to, know that positive change waits for you on the other side. Smile and wave as that doubt creeps in trying to taunt you into quitting and settling for the familiarity of the circumstances that brought you to this point. You knew it was coming. You won’t be fooled. You’ve got this!
