You might have an idea of what you want your life to be, but do you have a roadmap to get there? Having a vision and setting goals are your first two steps to getting started. With the right mentors, a plan in place, and dedication and hard work, you can reach your goals and make your vision come to life.

In this episode of The Mentee Podcast, I interview Matt Buck about how he turned his life around — from being an 'aimless' kid to working with an established real estate persona. He also shares how having the right mentor helped put him in the right direction for success. 

Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:

• The key is to know what you want. 
• Leverage your experiences, and think about how you can use them to grow and develop. 
• Have a vivid vision and main goal. Work backward from there. 
• Nail down your goals and follow through. 
• Have a personal brand that reflects your morals and beliefs. 

Episode Highlights:

[03:14] The Importance of Knowing What You Want 

Clarify and refine your goals by exposing yourself to new options, opportunities, and conversations. Find mentors living the life that you want. For Matt, this person is his mentor and boss, Brandon Turner. 

[21:01] Matt’s Goal-Setting Process

Matt intentionally sets aside time during the weekend to reflect. He often goes to serene places like a beach or a camp in Maui. Then, he finds a medium and avoids distractions from apps. Matt's goal-setting process starts with a larger vision and works backward from there. 

[26:45] Level Up Your Game

Think about and write down your goals, then plan how you'll get there. It is one thing to have a vision and mind and another to nail it down. Find a workplace that can help you accomplish those goals. Matt recommends leveraging the proximity effect — work with and learn from people established in your target industry. 

[39:23] Matt’s Top Tips for Finding a Marketing Intern

Have a personal brand that reflects your morals and beliefs. Sell the vision of the long run, and make sure to follow through on your goals. People sign up for where you're going. Once you have a marketing candidate, make sure to allow them room for growth. Have a basis of trust. 

Notable quotes from the Episode:

[03:14] “The hack on getting everything you want in life is one, to figure out what it is you want.”

[03:52] “Find mentors who are already living the life that you want.”

[52:47] “[A] personal brand doesn't have to be hundreds [or] 1000s of followers on Instagram. It's just more of, you know, who people say you are when [you’re] not in the room, your reputation, and the direction you're going.”

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Wyatt Graves: LinkedIn | Website 

The Mentee Podcast: Website | Apple | Spotify

Connect with Matt Buck: LinkedIn | Email

Brandon Turner’s LinkedIn 

Open Door Capital

The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan