Living Life by Design

The GPA System for Professional Loan Originators

When I got into this business, I couldn’t spell mortgage. I started my career with the big banks…Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Bank of California, before I joined a direct lender. I must say, what I enjoyed most about being a Professional Loan Originator was the ability to make as much money as I choose (no income cap) and to pretty much come and go as I pleased. What I did during the day was up to me…well, for the most part. Yes, I had borrowers to work with, files to help move forward, crises’ to work through, etc. But for the most part, my days were my own.

As I began my journey I was eager to learn everything I could about the business; the programs and what I needed to do to be successfully…that’s code for making lots of money. I must say that over the years I have enjoyed much success. But, there were times along the way that I lost perspective on what it mean to be a successful Professional Loan Originator. My days were filled with whatever I could do that caused the least amount of anxiety while still making me feel like I accomplished something. Most days I would go home tired, but I never really accomplish anything truly important. You know, the long term things that actually brought me more business and helped me to achieve my goals. Oops sorry…I used the “G” word, didn’t I.

• I’ve been in the business long enough now.
• I know what needs to be done.
• I’m busy at work.
• I get things done.
• I don’t need some stupid planner or program.
• I’ve earned the right to choose where I want to be, right where I am…miserable. Wait, did I say that?

Look, let’s not complicate things here. I had to make a choice then, the same choice we all have to make. Do we want to stay where we are or be better? It really is as simple as that. If you want to be better then you’ll need to start doing what it takes to be better and become what I call, a Professional Mortgage Loan Originator. No more stumbling through your day hoping for something magical to happen. You’ll actually have to plan your days. Yes people, I just used the “P” word. Take a deep breath, count to 10 and keep reading.

“I can help you” is the company motto for Stearns Lending, the company I currently work for. Regardless of what anyone else in the company might think or do, I’ve embraced it. This is the reason I write a free daily blog called, “Dent The Universe.” In this blog I teach loan officers how to be better. Not because I want something or expect something in return. I do it because, “I can help you.”

If you’re a loan officer and you want more than what you currently have (more joy, more money, more status, more control, more…), well, “I can help you.” The formula is easier than you might think. However, it takes determination on your part and accountability. Yep, I just used the “A” word. I’ve now used all three “Success” words…the three things you will have to have to if you’re going to be a Professional Loan Originator (The GPA System):

• Goals
• Plans
• Accountability

You don’t need to buy a fancy planner or mortgage your house for the money to buy the latest & greatest training videos. (I’m all about productivity “on the cheap” and FREE is always best). You just need to commit to a simple, straightforward process and have a manager (or pier) who will help keep you accountable along the journey. Over the next few weeks I will give you this step-by-step system absolutely free with no strings attached. I don’t want your email address and you’ll not get any “Invitations” to purchase something else. All you need is an open mind, a 3-ring binder that you can purchase just about anywhere, dividers that you can label, lined (3 hole punched) paper for your binder, and trust. You’ll need to trust me that I actually know what I’m talking about…lol.

The choice is yours…