What I Learned from Building a House: About Myself

(A self-reflective article)

They say building a house can often lead to divorce due to all the decision making disagreements, less than ideal temporary housing situations and expenses adding up. Since this is my second house build/major renovation, a friend joked that perhaps my marriage is very strong! (insert laughing emoji here) I agree and it got me thinking of what I've learned about myself through these building experiences that has translated into my purpose, values and finding my North Star**.

Loud and proud, the top 3 things I learned about myself while building a house.

1. I Am A Diagnostic Problem Solver

Yes, I was called analytical. At first, I was offended as many of the problems that I had to research stemmed from the initial budget being completely blown due to market conditions, labour shortages and supply issues. But to see things in a more positive light, it is my many hours of thinking and research that got me through being the designer of this project after the budget went haywire. It was my need to double check and problem solving skills that got me through all the quotes that had errors on them. It was my idea generating brainstorming sessions that got me through ideas on how to fix a bulkhead issue. It was my eagle eyes that led me to find a multitude of issues and specific details that the builder had missed. I do not regret one bit for Googling about how framing was done or how to soundproof rooms or the many types of roofing material available. All this to ensure this forever home is built to the standard of my expectations.

2. I Am An Empathetic Giver

Yes, I give-give-give and help out where I can, like picking bottles/garbage around the job site on weekends. When there is a short-fall from others, I step in. Like the time I had to move 2000lb of tile in two days and then have a surprise haul of 8000lb of hardwood. Reviewing quotes to find errors, no problem, I can do it. I care about everything I do and everyone I meet. I show my love by doing and helping.

3. I Am Mayor Like

Yes, I like to improve processes and give suggestions by suggesting to the builder how they should improve their internal processes as a client should never have to ask for a competing quote if the initial quote is high. I am a timekeeper in wanting a schedule for a move-in date. I am always learning and growing through all the building code research to be proactive in finding problems before they arise. I am organized and functional with my master list of house problems that I need to ask the builder on. I like to help people, their achievements make me feel proud, like trying to figure out millwork lighting when the electrician said they couldn't help. I follow rules and told tradesmen down the street to not use my porta potty in my job site as it is a hazard and liability if they trip.

Take it or leave it, this is who I am. My DNA. I will continue to learn and grow for my own self development and improvement. To show future generations to be proud of themselves and take some initiative to understand their inner workings and improve. Have you figured out your values and North Star? I'd love to hear about it.

I know, I know...the burning question you are all asking...will I build another primary residence after this second time? Answer = Heck no.

--

**For those who do not know what a "North Star" is, this excellent Forbes article sums it up. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2019/11/12/live-with-purpose-how-to-find-your-north-star/?

(quote) << Finding your North Star helps you live with purpose, and it gives you a reference point to keep you moving in the right direction. It doesn’t mean that life isn’t still challenging. Of course, we all have our ups and downs. But when you’re living with purpose, it’s much easier to stay on track and weather the storms that come your way. >>

Photo by <a >Anthony Tran</a> on <a >Unsplash</a>