What Hustling Humbly Really Means
In this foundational episode, we return to the heart of the Hustle Humbly podcast: the concept of hustling humbly. As we reflect on what it means to truly work hard with purpose and integrity, we explore the evolution of hustle culture and the power of humility in real estate. From defining the words “hustle” and “humble” to sharing early career stories, this episode reminds us why staying grounded while building success matters.
Defining Hustle and Humble
Hustle isn’t just about urgency. While dictionaries often define it as moving quickly or forcefully, we resonate more with a definition from Anthony Iannarino: “Hustle means you work hard every single day. You do the things others won’t do, and you do them with joy and purpose because you love it.” That’s the kind of hustling humbly we stand behind.
Humble, on the other hand, means showing modesty about your own importance. In a profession filled with big signs, flashy numbers, and constant comparison, staying humble means letting your work speak for itself. It means putting others first and focusing on genuine service rather than self-promotion.
The Anti-Hustle Movement and Boundaries
Some agents now resist the word “hustle,” pointing to burnout and toxic productivity. But we believe hustling humbly means working hard with boundaries and with joy. Hustle doesn’t mean sacrificing your health, family, or values. It means showing up consistently, being resourceful, and treating your work like the career it is.
Boundaries don’t mean avoiding responsibility. A healthy hustle includes professionalism, follow-through, and clear communication. For example, responding the next day instead of 10 p.m. shows respect for your clients and your own life—without neglecting the work.
Real Talk: Humble Beginnings
We reflect on our first year in real estate, where average sales prices were low and we drove all over town to chase opportunity. Katy’s average commission in year one was $2,582, and Alissa’s second sale was only $9,500. But those humble beginnings laid the foundation for sustainable, ethical careers.
New agents, don’t worry about appearing polished or perfect. Ask for help. Shadow experienced agents. Learn by doing. Focus on serving others, and let your integrity build your business.
Staying Humble in Success
Even years into our careers, staying humble means checking our pride when others frustrate us. It’s easy to judge disorganized or unethical agents. But humility reminds us to stay in our own lane, lead by example, and offer grace where we can.
Being humble doesn’t mean hiding your success. It means celebrating wins without arrogance and staying committed to growth. It means helping others along the way and being honest about what we still need to learn.
The Power of Honest Marketing
We discuss how misleading stats and inflated marketing can erode trust. Transparency matters. If you’re a solo agent, don’t pretend you have a team. If you’re new, own your experience level and lean into relationships.
We also revisit Alissa’s handwritten letter strategy, which embraced vulnerability: “I have big goals. I haven’t quite met them yet. If you know someone looking to buy or sell, please send them my way. I’ll treat them like family.” That’s hustling humbly in action—no fluff, just real service.
Hustling Humbly Every Day
You don’t have to work around the clock to hustle. You can work hard during the hours you choose, pour into your clients, and show up fully in all areas of your life. Even when you’re not selling, you’re still working—at being a great parent, partner, or friend.
Hustling humbly means giving your all, whether you’re showing a $400,000 home or emptying a client’s forgotten closet. It means knowing you’re never too good for the hard stuff. And it means staying motivated by service, not ego.
A Community That Gets It
We asked our audience what “hustling humbly” means to them. Their answers were powerful:
- “Work hard, but don’t get a big head.”
- “Serve others. Don’t brag.”
- “Make an impact without being a snob.”
- “Get up, grind, and do it all from the heart.”
You all get it. You are building careers that matter—not just in numbers, but in relationships, service, and legacy.
Final Thoughts
There will always be noise in this industry. But when you focus on hustling humbly, you build something real. Stay kind. Keep learning. Let your work speak for itself. And know that being humble doesn’t mean being small—it means being strong enough to serve.
Toast of the Week Amanda in Atlanta toasts her colleague Maria, who brings joy and excellence to their shared real estate journey. Here’s to the agents who lift each other up and embody the true meaning of hustling humbly.
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