Why I Wrote Dammit, Stop Being Overwhelmed and Overworked

What does it say about us that we measure worth by how tired we are?

That question haunted me long before I wrote this book. I began to notice how often people spoke of being “busy” as though it were proof of their worth. They weren’t boasting. They were confessing. Busyness had become a kind of penance, a way to atone for simply being human in a world that demands constant output.

I didn’t write this book to tell people to manage their time better. Time management is the gospel of the already exhausted. I wrote it to ask a deeper question: what if the system itself is wrong? What if the constant pressure to keep up is not a personal failure but a collective delusion?

We live in a culture that mistakes activity for progress. We throw ourselves into every task, believing that motion equals meaning. But meaning requires pause, reflection, and choice, three things our schedules rarely allow. One passage in the book puts it plainly:

“You don’t have to give every request, every chore, every random obligation your full attention. Be selective. Be strategic. Treat your time like it’s precious, because it is.”

The truth is simple, though rarely spoken: the calendar is not the problem. The mindset is.

“When you start to value time as the precious resource it is, you stop wasting it on things that don’t matter.”

I wanted to write something that would challenge the quiet obedience we’ve built around overwork. The world tells us to keep going, to push harder, to hustle more. But progress, real progress, often begins with refusal, with the courage to say no.

I wrote this book as an act of resistance. Against the cult of productivity. Against the myth that constant doing leads to fulfillment. Against the fear that stillness is failure.

If it unsettles you, it should. That’s the point. Overwhelm isn’t proof that you’re doing enough; it’s evidence that you’ve been made to believe you never can.

So this book isn’t a manual. It’s a mirror. It asks one question that every overworked person must eventually face: if your time is your life, why are you giving so much of it away?

And perhaps the harder question still, what would happen if you stopped?

Why I Wrote The Future of Real Estate: PropTech, Sustainability and Design

The real estate industry is standing at a crossroads. Technology, design, and sustainability are no longer trends; they are forces that are redefining the entire landscape. When I began writing The Future of Real Estate: PropTech, Sustainability and Design, I wanted to bridge the gap between what is already happening and what is coming next. Too often, professionals in property are reactive instead of proactive. This book is a call to lead, not follow.

I wrote it because I saw an industry that risks being left behind by innovation. Developers, brokers, and investors still rely on outdated systems while the world is moving toward digital twins, blockchain transactions, and smart, energy-efficient buildings. I wanted to create a guide that speaks in plain language, not technical jargon, so that anyone from an agent to an urban planner can understand where the market is heading.

The book explores how PropTech is transforming every stage of real estate: buying, selling, investing, and managing. It shows why sustainability is now tied to profitability, not just compliance, and how design thinking is shaping human-centered spaces that adapt to our changing world. Each chapter builds a roadmap for the decade ahead, shaped by data, automation, and ethical responsibility.

My goal was not to predict the future but to prepare readers for it. Because the future of real estate will belong to those who understand how to blend innovation with intention.

If you want to stay ahead, rethink what success means in property, and see where the next decade is heading, this book was written for you.

📘 Read it on Kindle: The Future of Real Estate: PropTech, Sustainability and Design
💼 Series: Real Estate Mastery Books by Willem Tait

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Review: The Prince

The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Machiavelli’s The Prince is one of those timeless works that challenges you to think differently about power, leadership, and strategy. It’s inspired me so much that I’m currently working on my own annotated manuscript of the book. The insights are sharp, thought-provoking, and still deeply relevant today.

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The Way to Wealth: Benjamin Franklin’s Call Across Centuries

 

What does it mean to live wisely with money and time? For Benjamin Franklin, this was never only about numbers. It was about life itself. His words in The Way to Wealth do not simply add up coins or praise saving. They come from lived experience, as if wealth were a mirror showing us how our choices shape a life.

Franklin’s voice comes from the eighteenth century, yet it still speaks to us today. He reminds us that time is more than minutes ticking away, and money is more than notes and coins. Both are forms of energy, the flow of a life. To waste them is not just careless; it is to give away the chance of freedom. To protect them is not greed, but a way to live with purpose.

The challenge is that his wisdom is not always simple. Hard work and thrift sound like old-fashioned words. Yet behind them is something sharp: the truth that distraction steals from us. Franklin warned not only against laziness but also against the quiet loss of focus. The real danger is not earning too little, but spreading ourselves so thin that nothing adds up to a meaningful life.

Today the challenge feels even greater. Franklin worried about taverns and gossip; we struggle with endless feeds, buzzing phones, and constant scrolling. His warning rings louder, not softer. To “lose no time” is not a call to rush. It is a call to be clear. How will you spend your limited hours? What will your days add up to?

Perhaps Franklin’s deepest lesson is that wealth, like time, is not mainly about gathering more. It is about living in alignment. True wealth is the ability to live without endless compromise, to use both money and hours on what you truly choose. Freedom is not a pile of coins stored away but a life shaped with intention.

Going back to Franklin is like looking into a mirror. His sayings, repeated and collected for centuries, still feel urgent today. They make us ask if wisdom can ever be passed down ready-made, or if every generation must face the same questions again: How should I spend my time? What is really worth the cost?

📚 Read More in My Annotated Edition
👉 The Way to Wealth (Annotated): With Motivational Commentary – Kindle Edition
👉 Paperback Edition

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Review: Lincoln and the Gettysberg Address: Commemorative Papers

Lincoln and the Gettysberg Address: Commemorative Papers by Allan Editor Nevins
My rating: 0 of 5 stars



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Review: Shepherd's Notes: Proverbs

Shepherd's Notes: Proverbs by Duane A. Garrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rediscovering Proverbs a couple of months back has been both grounding and inspiring. As a teenager I lived by these principles and, in many ways, still do, but I had forgotten so many of them. Now I feel back on track. I’ve already drafted the manuscript structure for my own annotated version of Proverbs and hope to start writing it soon.

View all my reviews

Why I wrote the book the "Philosophy of Residential and Commercial Real Estate" by Willem Tait

In the dynamic world of real estate, we often focus intensely on external factors: interest rates, market cycles, economic forecasts, and property valuations. We pore over spreadsheets, analyze demographics, and study blueprints. Yet, even with all the data in the world, why do seemingly rational investors sometimes make irrational decisions? The answer often lies not in the market, but within ourselves.

The true “inner game” of property investment is played in the mind. It’s about understanding the subtle, powerful psychological biases that can sway our judgment, leading to missed opportunities or costly mistakes. Having observed and studied countless property transactions, it’s clear that mastering one’s own mental landscape is as crucial as mastering market analytics.

To make genuinely smart property decisions, we must first confront these common psychological pitfalls:

1. Anchoring Bias: The First Number Fallacy

This bias occurs when we rely too heavily on the first piece of information offered (the “anchor”) when making decisions. In real estate, this might be the initial asking price of a property, a past valuation from years ago, or even the price of the last comparable sale, even if current market conditions have shifted dramatically.

• Impact on Property: An investor might anchor to a low past valuation and hesitate to buy a property whose current price accurately reflects strong growth, or conversely, cling to a high past peak price, refusing to sell even as the market declines.
• Mastering It: Always conduct independent, current market analysis. Challenge the first numbers you encounter with fresh data. Be flexible in your price expectations based on present realities, not historical anchors.

2. Confirmation Bias: Seeing What You Want to See

Once we form an opinion — say, that a particular neighborhood is “hot” or an asset class is “the next big thing” — we tend to seek out and interpret information that confirms our belief, while ignoring evidence that contradicts it.

• Impact on Property: An investor convinced a property is a good buy might selectively focus on positive news or expert opinions, dismissing any red flags about its true condition, zoning issues, or local economic challenges.
• Mastering It: Actively seek out dissenting opinions and contradictory data. Play devil’s advocate with your own assumptions. Engage with diverse perspectives to get a balanced view before committing.

3. Loss Aversion: The Pain of Selling Low

The psychological pain of a loss is often felt more intensely than the pleasure of an equivalent gain. This bias can lead investors to hold onto underperforming properties far too long, hoping they will “come back” to their original purchase price, rather than cutting losses and reallocating capital to more promising opportunities.

• Impact on Property: Refusing to sell a declining asset, even when holding it means accumulating more losses through ongoing expenses and missed alternative investments.
• Mastering It: Treat past investments as sunk costs. Evaluate the property’s current potential independently of its purchase price. Focus on future opportunity cost: where can your capital generate the best returns today?

4. Herding Mentality: Following the Crowd

When everyone else seems to be doing something, there’s a strong urge to follow, assuming they know something you don’t. This can lead to market bubbles where prices become detached from fundamentals, driven purely by speculative fervor.

• Impact on Property: Rushing into bidding wars in an overheated market, or investing in a trending area without understanding the underlying long-term demand drivers, simply because “everyone else is.”
• Mastering It: Develop an independent investment thesis. Ask “why” the crowd is moving, and whether the fundamentals support it. Be comfortable being contrarian if your research dictates it.

5. Overconfidence Bias: The Illusion of Control

Believing you have more control over outcomes or more accurate forecasts than you actually do. This can lead to underestimating risks, overlooking due diligence, or taking on excessive leverage.

• Impact on Property: Making large investments without adequate reserves, dismissing expert advice, or believing you can force a project’s success through sheer will, despite market signals.
• Mastering It: Acknowledge your limitations. Seek external validation for your assumptions. Maintain a healthy skepticism about your own judgments and always plan for contingencies.

I have been delving into how our philosophical understanding of spaces, purpose, and even ourselves, influences every property decision. If you’re interested in uncovering these deeper connections and transforming the way you see real estate, my book, “Philosophy of Residential and Commercial Real Estate: Exploring the Intersection of Philosophy, People, Property, Purpose and Spaces” (part of the Series of Real Estate Mastery Books), delves much further into these profound interplays. You can find more information on my author page and list of books here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQ2PLTCD

Mastering the investor’s inner game is an ongoing process of self-awareness, discipline, and continuous learning. By understanding and actively mitigating these psychological biases, you empower yourself to make more rational, resilient, and ultimately, smarter property decisions, regardless of how unpredictable the market may seem.

Real Estate

Real Estate Investments

Psycology

Property

Property Management

Written by Willem Tait

Understanding the Heartbeat of Global Real Estate Development, by Willem Tait

 

The global landscape is in a constant state of flux, and with it, the built environment. From towering skyscrapers in mega-cities to innovative community hubs in developing regions, real estate development plays a crucial role in shaping our societies, driving economic growth, and ultimately, defining our collective future. But often, the intricate dance of bringing a project from a mere idea on paper to a tangible structure is shrouded in mystery for those outside the industry.

Having spent considerable time studying and observing the dynamics of real estate development across diverse markets, I’ve come to appreciate that it’s far more than just laying bricks and mortar. It’s a complex interplay of grand vision, meticulous planning, robust financial strategies, and a deep understanding of local and global socio-economic forces.

Think about the last significant development you witnessed, perhaps a new mixed-use complex transforming a city block, a sustainable residential community taking shape, or the adaptive reuse of an historic building for modern purposes. Each of these projects represents countless hours of work, navigating a complex web of regulations, market demands, stakeholder engagements, and of course, securing the necessary capital.

One of the most critical, yet often unseen, aspects is the feasibility study. This in-depth analysis acts as the project’s heartbeat, rigorously assessing whether the proposed development is not only physically possible but also financially viable and strategically aligned with market demand. It delves into everything from potential rental yields and sales projections to construction costs and regulatory hurdles. A well-executed feasibility study can be the difference between a thriving development and a costly misstep, anywhere in the world.

Another fascinating element, universally challenging, is the entitlement process. Obtaining the necessary approvals, from zoning changes and environmental clearances to building permits, can be a lengthy and often complex journey. Understanding the local regulatory landscape, building strong relationships with governing authorities, and demonstrating a project’s broader community benefits are paramount for any developer looking to make a meaningful impact.

And let’s not forget the accelerating importance of sustainable development. Across continents, integrating green building principles, energy efficiency, and water conservation into projects is no longer just an ethical choice; it’s a rapidly growing market expectation, driven by climate concerns, rising utility costs, and increasing demand from investors and tenants for resilient, high-performing assets. Developers are increasingly focused on certifications like LEED or BREEAM to signal their commitment.

My exploration into the multifaceted world of real estate development has been a continuous learning journey, and I’ve had the opportunity to delve into these topics in more detail in my writings. If you’re interested in exploring these concepts further, including practical insights into property investment and global market analysis, you can find more information on my author page and list of books here: https://www.amazon.com/author/willemtait

Ultimately, real estate development is a powerful force for progress, shaping skylines and communities worldwide. By understanding its fundamental principles and the immense dedication of those who craft our built environment, we can all become more informed participants in the growth and evolution of our cities and towns. The next time you see a new building rising, take a moment to appreciate the intricate journey it has taken from concept to reality, a journey driven by vision, expertise, and a commitment to building a better future for everyone.

#realestate #property

Why I Wrote Stop Giving a Damn and Start Living and Why You Must Buy it!

 “Most of the stuff you’re losing sleep over isn’t worth your energy, and honestly? You shouldn’t give a damn about it.” — Willem Tait, Stop Giving a Damn and Start Living

We live in a world where burnout is worn like a badge of honor. Overthinking is normalized. People-pleasing is encouraged. And somehow, in between the group chats, deadlines, and constant notifications, we lose sight of ourselves.

I wrote Stop Giving a Damn and Start Living to break that cycle. This is not your typical self-help book filled with feel-good fluff. It’s a clear, direct, no-nonsense guide to cutting the mental clutter, protecting your energy, and finally focusing on what actually matters.

Why You’re Probably Here

You’re tired. Not just physically, but mentally. Emotionally.

Maybe you feel stuck in a pattern of always saying yes when you mean no. Maybe you’re constantly trying to meet everyone’s expectations, even at your own expense. Or maybe you’ve just had enough.

Here’s the truth:

“Caring about everything doesn’t make you a better person. It just makes you tired.”

This book helps you let go of the stress, guilt, and over-apologizing that have been draining you for years.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

1. How to Ditch the Mental Load

The book opens with what I call the “rucksack of bricks” — all the guilt, opinions, expectations, and nonsense you carry every day.

“You don’t need to haul emotional baggage just because someone handed it to you.”

This chapter teaches you how to put it down and move forward lighter and freer.

2. How to Sort Out What Actually Matters

Time and energy are not unlimited. This book teaches you to treat them like valuable currency. Spend them wisely.

“Not every ripple deserves your attention. Most of them are just noise.”

You’ll learn how to spot distractions, define your values, and focus only on what truly matters to you.

3. How to Say No Without Guilt

Saying no is hard, especially when you’re used to being the go-to person. But boundaries aren’t rude. They’re necessary.

“Every ‘yes’ you give out of guilt is a ‘no’ to yourself.”

This section gives you practical language and real confidence to set limits without the guilt trip.

4. How to Quit Over-Apologizing

There’s a difference between apologizing when you’re wrong and constantly apologizing for existing.

“Stop saying sorry for taking up space. You’re allowed to be here.”

You’ll learn how to replace unnecessary apologies with self-respect.

5. How to Build Real Confidence

Confidence isn’t about being loud. It’s about being solid.

“The sun doesn’t dim because someone might find it too bright. It shines. So should you.”

This chapter reminds you that you don’t need permission to trust yourself.

Why THIS Book Is Different

Unlike many self-help books that feel like homework, this one is designed to speak directly and clearly. It’s:

• Conversational and human
• Grounded in real psychology and philosophy
• Written for busy people with real problems

There’s also a cheat sheet at the end, plus a “slipped up” recovery guide, because no one gets it right all the time.

“You won’t wake up one day and suddenly stop stressing. You have to choose to let go. That choice gets easier — but it starts with you.”

Who THIS Book Is For

This book is for the overthinker, the people-pleaser, the boundary-shy high-achiever. It’s for anyone who is done running on empty and wants their energy back.

If you want more clarity, more peace, more space to breathe and just be — you’ll find tools here to help you do that.

The Science Behind the Message

This book doesn’t rely on wishful thinking. It’s grounded in principles from psychology, philosophy, and economics.

• Psychology: You’ll learn about cognitive reframing — the mental shift that changes how you experience stress.
• Philosophy: Drawing from Stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, the book teaches you how to stop obsessing over things outside your control.
• Economics: You’ll learn to treat your energy like money. If something isn’t giving you a return on investment — in joy, peace, or growth — it’s not worth the cost.

All of this is delivered in a tone that feels real and accessible, not academic.

A Final Word

I didn’t write this book to sound smart. I wrote it to be useful. To help people break out of overthinking, burnout, and chronic self-neglect.

To help people like you stop handing out energy like it’s unlimited — and start protecting it like it matters.

“You get one life. One shot. Do you really want to spend it stressed about things that don’t even matter?”

This is your permission to live differently.

If this message resonated with you, and you’re ready to reclaim your energy, focus, and peace, you’ll find the full step-by-step guide in my book.

Support us: Get the Book

Stop Giving a Damn and Start Living: Cut the Crap. Focus on What Matters. Live Fully

Available on Amazon:
Kindle: $2.99
Paperback: $7.99
Hardcover: $19.99
Also available through Kindle Unlimited https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F14P3CYK

Final note: I wrote this book after years of watching myself — and others — burn out from trying to be everything to everyone. Writing it helped me take my own advice. I hope reading it helps you do the same.

If this article helped you, leave a highlight, share it, or drop a comment. I read every one.

#bookreview #read