We had the good fortune of connecting with Cissy Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cissy, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work life balance is something I am passionate about, but not in the way you might think! I was a young mom, and found success early in my career. I was travelling frequently for work and it really did take a village to raise my son. If it wasn’t for the support system we had built, I would not have been able to do both. I am passionate about making sure working mothers know that there isn’t actually work life balance. Not most of the time, anyway. Many times I felt like I was slacking as a mom, or as an employee. The notion that I could do both really, really well – or to the standard I expected – at the same time, created a constant feeling of failure, or being behind. The fact is, most women have pretty high standards for themselves and (I think) tend to take an all-or-nothing approach. If we aren’t getting an A+, then we are failing. Nothing could be further from the truth. Your best is always good enough. Perfection should never be the goal. We HAVE to take those moments with our kids and family when they happen, because before we know it, those will be gone. Work will always be there, and if things don’t work out, have faith that when one door shuts, another will open. We always persevere! Don’t work towards “work-life” balance, just make the best choices you can at the time, and never forget what’s important to you.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am a Real Estate Agent, with PorchLight Real Estate Group. Real Estate is something I have been passionate about my entire life. I focus on residential and love looking at and thinking about homes. I love to imagine the potential, how a room could be used or repurposed, or the potential of the backyard. I love looking for homes for my clients and finding solutions they may not have thought of. I love the process of determining a fair price and then fighting for it! Obviously this current market doesn’t allow for negotiating, but it will not stay this way forever.
What sets me apart, is my client-centric approach. I take the time to truly understand my clients needs, wants, and desires, in concert with their budget. I work hard to make sure we are focusing our efforts in the right places, making the best use of my client’s time. I also understand that buying and selling homes is emotional, and somewhat of a process. Client centricity is also the reason I joined PorchLight Group. Their client support is unmatched. The services, oversight, and market knowledge is a huge asset. My goal at the end of each transaction is always to just have a happy client!
Becoming a Real Estate Agent was easy. Becoming a successful Real Estate agent was NOT easy. A good real estate agent is like a duck…calm and smooth at the surface, but working like heck behind the scenes to make it all come together. I truly enjoy the many aspects of this business: working with people, making dreams come true, the business side of things, the negotiations, and the challenges. Starting your own business, and/or being an independent contractor, is a leap of faith. I credit my success with having a good plan, discipline, a lot of passion, and a little luck – oh and patience! Lots of Patience!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A week in Colorado? Oh the possibilities! I have lived in the Southern Denver Metro area for the last 20 years, so my market knowledge is definitely focused down south!
The first thing I would do is take them to La Loma, in Castle Rock. The views from inside La Loma of the valley and foothills below is just unmatched. The food and drinks are fresh, and hard to beat.
For a little morning hike, I would travel 10 minutes south of Parker to Castlewood Canyon. Castlewood Canyon is one of the most beautiful geographic formations along the front range. It’s also great for a hot day, since much of the hike is shady!
If you are up for more of a challenge, there are several Inclines to choose from…The Manitou Incline outside of Colorado Springs is the most challenging by far but also offers the most dramatic scenery and views.
Colorado is known for breweries and a few of my favorites are Breckenridge Brewery off of Santa fe, or actually little ole Downhill Brewery in Parker, CO!
Lastly, a day trip to Evergreen for pizza, beer, and a walk around the lake, is always on the agenda. The “back way” into Evergreen from Parmalee Gulch Road off of 285 is the most interesting drive. Beau Jo’s pizza on the river is a great place to get a Mountain Pie. You can work it off by hiking around the lake, or paddleboarding. Then head to Little Bear for live music! You just can’t beat it. When leaving Evergreen you have to drive up Upper Bear Creek Road to see the homes. It’s worth the detour!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The men in my life are the ones that I want to recognize. My husband is the most patient, unfailingly supportive person. He puts up with so much. My Dad is literally my biggest cheerleader. Ever since I was a little girl, he always told us we could do whatever we put our minds to. And my Son, for always understanding and trusting me.
Website: www.porchlightgroup.com
Instagram: @cissymillerrealtor
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/cissymiller