My Journey Through Grit and Grace

Hey everyone, Alyssa here! Today, I want to take you on a journey—a journey through my life, my struggles, and the triumphs that have shaped me into one of Lake County's top realtors. It's a story not just of success in real estate, but of perseverance, resilience, and the power of faith.

Born and raised in Waukegan, IL, life threw its curveballs at me from a young age. I've been the eldest sibling, shouldering responsibilities, and always had this entrepreneurial spirit. My path was anything but straight; from photography to waitressing, to being a teacher's assistant—each step felt like groping in the dark, trying to find that spark that was truly me. The 2008 market crash hit my family hard, plunging us into a turmoil that made high school unbearable. Dropping out and then clawing my way back to get a GED wasn't just an educational journey; it was survival.

Amid the chaos, a dream quietly took root. Real estate, ironically the last career I ever thought I'd pursue, became my calling. It wasn't an easy choice, given our family's past with the market crash, but something deep inside me refused to bow down to fear. In 2017, I took a leap of faith, got licensed, and faced head-on the daunting challenges of this industry. Yes, it was hard. Yes, there were moments I wanted to quit. But then I remembered: I'm not just doing this for me. I have a family, dreams, and a vision for a life beyond survival.

What kept me going, you ask? Faith. My faith was the lighthouse in the darkest storms, guiding me back to my purpose whenever doubt crept in. My family was my rock, providing both the reason to push forward and a safe haven to return to after the battles of the day. Together, we've built a life that once seemed impossible—a testament to what faith, hard work, and love can achieve.

For those of you thinking of diving into the tumultuous waters of real estate, or any entrepreneurial venture for that matter, here's my advice: Brace yourself. It's going to be a ride. Ensure you have enough saved to keep you afloat during the initial turbulent times. Dive deep into learning, be the expert in your field, and, above all, build genuine relationships. Success in this business isn't just about closing deals; it's about connecting hearts and fulfilling dreams.

To my fellow dreamers, the road less traveled is fraught with challenges, but it's also where you'll find your true strength. Remember, every setback is a setup for a comeback. Keep pushing, keep believing, and never lose faith. Our journeys are different, but our destination is the same—a life lived fully, with purpose and passion. Let's meet there, at the top.

Until next time,

Alyssa