Do The Work | Mindset Mastery

Do The Work | Mindset Mastery is an unfiltered dive into the life of a real estate entrepreneur. Conversations are real, raw and uncensored. This is not your “everything is sunshine” conversation. Our guests will not posture, BS, or pretend they have it all figured out. You will hear stories of tragedies, failures, and pain to their transformational journey of becoming a Badass Agent. This is Real Life, Real People, Real Estate.

CHAOS TO ORDER | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 02/09/2026

CHAOS TO ORDER | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about what it really looks like when life starts to feel chaotic even when everything on the surface appears to be moving forward. I share how easy it is to drift off track without even realizing it, not because we lack discipline or desire, but because we allow unchecked thoughts, comparison, and distraction to slowly take control. This episode is about awareness, responsibility, and learning how to bring order back when everything inside feels like it is sitting at a ten. I start by reflecting on how common it is for people to abandon their goals early in the year. Not because they are lazy or incapable, but because distractions quietly take priority. I see it in business, in relationships, and in myself. We put energy into things that do not actually move the needle, and before we know it, we are frustrated, exhausted, and reacting instead of leading. When life is full with business, family, marriage, and responsibility, it is easy to carry unresolved pressure without ever slowing down to identify where it is coming from. I share a personal example involving Carla and how disagreements can escalate even when neither of us can remember what started them. The issue was never the moment itself. I was already operating at a ten. When we fail to check our thoughts and emotions early, we carry that weight into every interaction. One small comment or inconvenience becomes the final straw. This pattern shows up everywhere. In marriages, friendships, parenting, and business decisions. The problem is not the situation. It is the lens we are viewing it through. I explain how comparison quietly fuels this chaos. Watching others move fast or succeed differently can trigger self doubt even when we are doing the right things. That doubt grows when it is ignored. It turns into fear, insecurity, and frustration that eventually spills into areas of life that have nothing to do with the original trigger. When that happens, we start blaming circumstances, people, markets, or systems instead of taking responsibility for our internal state. One of the biggest shifts I talk about is accepting that I am human. Certain things bother me. Pretending they do not only makes the problem worse. Creating space from distractions is not weakness. It is leadership. I share how intentionally muting content and refocusing my attention helped me regain clarity and alignment. When I mind my business, focus on what I can control, and stay present, everything improves. When I avoid the work or escape into comparison and noise, I stay stuck. This episode is a reminder that growth does not come from more information. It comes from action, discipline, and honesty with yourself. The chaos does not disappear by accident. Order is created when we identify our triggers, challenge our thoughts, and commit to doing what we already know needs to be done. Reader Reflection Questions What thoughts or comparisons have been quietly putting you on edge lately Where in your life are you reacting at a ten instead of addressing the root cause early What distractions do you need to create space from so you can refocus on what you can control Notable Quotes “I was already at a ten. The situation did not take me there.” “When I stop checking my thoughts, everything around me becomes chaotic.” “I do not need more information. I need more action and alignment.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/40050295

WHEN LIFE IS GOOD BUT YOUR MIND ISN'T | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 02/02/2026

WHEN LIFE IS GOOD BUT YOUR MIND ISN'T | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I open up about something I wrestle with constantly and that is the tension between pressure and gratitude. Running a business, leading a household, being a husband and a father all come with responsibility. That responsibility can quietly turn into suffering if I am not careful about where my mind goes. I talk about how easy it is to get trapped in comparison, future goals, past mistakes, and the weight of everything I think I should be doing. My mind moves fast. Too fast at times. When I let it run unchecked, it creates pressure that feels overwhelming. Not because life is bad, but because I stop being present. I stop checking myself. I forget how far I have come. Marriage and family play a big role in this conversation. What people see from the outside is never the full picture. Carla and I carry a lot together. We take on the challenges of running a large operation, supporting agents, and navigating life as partners. Sometimes the stress leaks into the home. Sometimes we say things we do not mean. I have learned that the real suffering does not come from the situation itself but from holding onto anger, shame, and resentment instead of processing it and moving forward. I share honestly that positivity does not come naturally to me. It is something I work at every day. I wake up and my mind wants to go negative. So I fight back with intention. I listen to books and podcasts focused on awareness and discipline. I move my body. I create space to slow my thoughts down. These practices help but even then it is easy to forget to check the thermometer and realize I am overheating mentally. One moment that stopped me in my tracks came from listening to a story on a podcast while cleaning my car. A forest ranger survived being crushed under a fallen tree in the rainforest. After hours trapped under rubble she survived with barely a scratch. The next morning she was lying in a hammock saying one simple phrase over and over. I am alive. Hearing that broke me open. That moment pulled me back to being seventeen years old after weeks in the hospital not knowing if I would live. I remember driving home and seeing the world differently. The sky was brighter. Everything felt beautiful. I was overwhelmed with gratitude just to be here. I was alive. Somewhere along the way I forgot how powerful that realization is. I reflect on how easy it is to move from praying for a life to rushing through it once you have it. I remind myself that everything I have today was once a prayer. The suffering I create now is unnecessary. It comes from living in the past or racing into the future instead of standing firmly in the present. The solution is not complicated but it does require honesty and action. Be here. Tell your spouse you love them. Tell your kids how proud you are. Call your parents. Look in the mirror and say you are proud of yourself. When I focus on what I can do right now everything else eventually takes care of itself. Life is good right now. The work is learning how to believe that and live from it. Reader Reflection Questions Where has your mind been spending most of its time lately in the past the future or the present What parts of your life were once prayers that you may now be overlooking What is one small action you can take today to be more present with the people who matter most Notable Quotes I do not know if I am okay but I am alive Worry and anxiety are caused by too much focus on the future while guilt regret and resentment come from dwelling in the past Everything I have today was once a prayer Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39938395

BORROWED GUILT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 01/26/2026

BORROWED GUILT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I want to talk about something that weighs heavier than most people realize and that is the responsibility and guilt that can come with leadership advice and influence. There are moments where my mind feels full because leadership is not just about business decisions. It is about people. It is about hearing their struggles, their finances, their marriages, their health, and still being expected to show up strong. For years I tried to avoid leadership because I thought it was easier to just tell people what to do. What I learned is that real leadership is about empowering others to trust themselves and take ownership of their decisions. One of the hardest lessons I had to learn was separating advice from responsibility. When you give advice based on your experience, it comes from integrity. It comes from wanting others to avoid pain or move faster toward growth. But when someone takes that advice, the outcome is not yours to carry. If you take responsibility for their results, good or bad, you actually disempower them and yourself. I lived this lesson firsthand. After financial failures early in my life, I stopped trusting my own judgment. I leaned on Carla to make decisions and then blamed her when things did not work out. That resentment damaged trust and weakened me as a leader and as a husband. Advice only becomes toxic when it is used as a scapegoat instead of a guide. I realized that advice is information, not a guarantee. It is up to the person receiving it to make it their own and see it through. If they quit at the first obstacle, it becomes easy to call it bad advice. But most growth happens after things get uncomfortable. Everything meaningful in my life got harder before it got better. Marriage. Business. Leadership. Faith. I have given advice about quitting jobs, maxing out credit cards, betting on yourself, and rebuilding relationships. I share what I did, not what someone should do. Leaders mirror what people already feel in their heart and soul. The danger comes when someone wants the result without the responsibility of seeing the process through. Guilt can destroy momentum if you let it sit unchecked. I carried guilt for years over borrowed money, failed ventures, and hard decisions. What finally freed me was understanding that time and integrity bring everything full circle. Debts get paid. Relationships heal. Growth happens. But only if you stay in it long enough. As leaders, parents, and mentors, our job is not to control outcomes. Our job is to speak truth from experience and allow others to take ownership of their choices. And if you are on the receiving end of advice, your responsibility is not to blame but to commit and see it through. Reader reflection questions Where in your life are you blaming advice instead of owning your decision What advice have you taken but not fully committed to seeing through How would your growth change if you released guilt and focused on responsibility Notable quotes “You cannot take responsibility for the outcome of someone else’s decision.” “Advice is not a guarantee. It is information.” “Everything meaningful gets harder before it gets better.” 1. Read and Understand the Transcript: * Thoroughly review the podcast transcript to grasp the overall storyline or Storylines and lessons being shared. * Identify the main message, key points, and any personal experiences that are central to the episode. Important do not use hyphens whatsoever or emojis throughout the entire document. this is an indication that AI was used for the write up. Remove hyphens in the writeup. 2. Draft the Blog Post Summary: * Introduction: Start with a hook that draws the reader in, setting up the story or lesson in a way that speaks directly to the reader. IN a first-person point of view. * Body: Summarize the key points of the story, focusing on the lessons derived from the experiences shared. Maintain the flow of the narrative while keeping it concise. * Conclusion: Wrap up the summary by reinforcing the main takeaway. Encourage the reader to reflect on how the lesson applies to their own life or work. 3. Omit Irrelevant Content: * Exclude any parts of the transcript that do not contribute to the overall message or lesson. Focus on the content that provides value and clarity to the reader. 4. Include Reader Engagement Questions: * At the end of the summary, include 3 questions that prompt the reader to think deeply about the episode’s content and how it applies to their own situation. These should be reflective and action-oriented. 5. Highlight Notable Quotes: * Pull out 3 notable quotes from the transcript that capture key insights, impactful moments, or memorable phrases. These should be presented at the end of the blog post, either as a standalone section or integrated into the text. 6. Maintain Consistent Voice and Tonality: IMPORTANT The blog post summaries should maintain the voice, tonality, words and style of the podcaster, ensuring consistency with how the podcast is presented. This way, the written content will align seamlessly with the spoken content, providing a unified experience for your audience. 7. Additional information. Remember, this is for a blog entry summary of the podcast, so you don't have to say welcome to another episode, I'm A.Z. Araujo, instead say in this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... Do not use the words, profound, delves, delve, unlock or unlocking or essential, no hyphens no emojis. 8. It is crucial this is communicated in the voice of A.Z. Araujo. Use his way of communicating and conveying the message. Use his vocabulary as much as possible to capture his personality. Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39853630

YOU CANNOT CHANGE WHAT YOU REFUSE TO SEE | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 01/19/2026

YOU CANNOT CHANGE WHAT YOU REFUSE TO SEE | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I found myself slowing down and paying attention to something that has shaped every area of my life and business over the years. Self awareness. I walked into the studio a little wired, moving fast, thoughts racing, and it reminded me how easy it is to lose control when you are not grounded. That moment pulled me back to a principle I wrote down years ago. My responsibility is to lead myself, lead my family, lead my team, and lead my business. None of that happens without awareness. As I reflected on what I see every week inside the business, I started connecting the dots between friction and lack of growth. Friction shows up when deals fall apart, when clients lose trust, when agents feel blindsided, and when emotions take over. I see it clearly when I look at cancellations. The majority of deals that fall apart come from newer agents or agents with fewer transactions, not because they are incapable, but because expectations were not set and preparation was missing. When you do not explain the process upfront, when you assume clients understand, you create confusion. And confusion always leads to friction. I have learned that friction is not something to blame on others. It is something to look inward at. Every time I felt emotionally charged, defensive, or frustrated, it came back to my own lack of preparation or communication. When clients question your value or your commission, it is not an attack. It is feedback. It means the foundation was not built strongly enough. Confidence does not come from hoping a deal closes. It comes from knowing you prepared, explained, and led with intention. What changed my life was stacking three things together. Self awareness. Self development. Self discipline. Awareness helps you see where things broke down. Development gives you the tools to fix it. Discipline makes sure you do not repeat the same mistakes. When I stopped reacting emotionally and started responding strategically, everything shifted. My communication became clearer. My leadership became stronger. My results became more consistent. I have learned that it does not matter what you think you said. It matters what the other person heard. If clients are surprised, confused, or defensive, that is on us. Our job is to slow down, explain the process, and make sure they understand every step. When expectations are clear, trust stays intact. When trust stays intact, deals move forward. This is not just about real estate. This is about how you show up in life. If there is friction, it is pointing you to something you need to see. You cannot change what you refuse to look at. Growth begins the moment you take responsibility for your words, your actions, and your preparation. The more aware you become, the less reactive you are. The more disciplined you are, the less chaos you create. And the more intentional you are, the faster momentum builds. Reader reflection questions Where in your business are you experiencing repeated friction and what might it be trying to show you How clearly are you setting expectations with your clients before problems arise What daily disciplines do you need to strengthen to lead yourself at a higher level Notable quotes from the episode “You cannot change what you refuse to see.” “If you find yourself explaining or defending yourself, there is a wrench in your system.” “It does not matter what you think you said. It matters what they heard.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39763450

STFU AND DTW | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 01/12/2026

STFU AND DTW | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I came into the new year fired up because momentum does not magically appear on January first. Momentum is built by the hours you put in before anyone is watching, by the systems you commit to, and by the discipline to do the work even when it feels repetitive. I have spent decades learning this lesson the hard way, and I am more convinced than ever that systems and consistency are what separate real growth from wishful thinking. I talked about why I am so passionate about building plug and play systems for our agents and why I believe they will continue to pay dividends far into the future. After twenty one years in this business, I know without a doubt that I would not have the results I have today without structure, coaching, and a willingness to listen. I was a student before I ever became a leader. I took notes. I respected the process. I valued the people who were ahead of me and I did exactly what they asked, even when it was uncomfortable. One of the hardest truths I shared is that most people will ask for advice but very few will actually apply it. Overthinking, overanalyzing, and looking for shortcuts becomes a way to stay busy without moving forward. Real change usually comes when the pain gets loud enough that excuses stop working. That is when I invested heavily in coaches and mentors, put my money where my mouth was, and followed instructions without trying to negotiate my way out of the work. When my coach told me to record a video every single day, I did it for over three hundred and fifty days straight. Not because it was easy, but because he had the results I wanted. I also addressed something that needs to be said more often. Accessibility does not mean a lack of value. Just because I answer my phone and pour into people does not mean I operate from scarcity or desperation. I know my worth. When someone asks for guidance and then immediately looks for another opinion without applying what was just given, they are not doing research. They are avoiding responsibility. That behavior breaks trust and eventually closes doors. The lesson is simple but not easy. Stop collecting opinions. Stop asking questions you are not ready to act on. Respect the people who have proven results by actually doing what they say. Consistency builds confidence. Confidence builds certainty. And certainty is the foundation of every top producer I know. If you want more in 2026, there is no secret formula waiting to be discovered. There is only work to be done. Appreciate the access you have. Honor the people pouring into you. And most importantly, show up every day and do the work. Reader reflection questions Where in your life are you asking for advice but not fully applying what you are being told Who in your circle has earned your respect through results and how are you honoring that guidance What consistent action are you avoiding because it feels uncomfortable or repetitive Notable quotes Confidence and certainty are the root of a top producer Just because I am accessible does not mean I do not know my value Stop asking questions and just do more of the work Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39678195

THE DREAM IS AWESOME, THE PROCESS IS DIFFICULT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 01/05/2026

THE DREAM IS AWESOME, THE PROCESS IS DIFFICULT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I want to slow things down and really take stock of what this past year has looked like. We are in the final stretch of 2025, and if you are anything like me, it feels like it flew by. A lot changed this year. Not just in business or the industry, but personally. Wins, losses, pressure, doubt, growth. Different stories, same emotions. That is the human experience, and it is something we all share whether we talk about it or not. What stood out to me most this year is how extreme the outcomes have been. I have seen people thrive in ways they never imagined, and I have seen others barely hanging on. Some are healthier, stronger, and more confident than ever. Others are exhausted, disconnected, and avoiding hard truths. Marriages strengthening, marriages breaking. Businesses exploding, businesses stuck. When you step back and look at it honestly, there is one common denominator in all of it. Us. Personal accountability is unavoidable. When multiple areas of life feel off, it is not the market, the timing, or other people. It starts with me. I have always had a soft spot for new years. Not because a calendar magically fixes anything, but because it gives people permission to begin again. I know the jokes. The gym fills up. People talk about goals and resolutions like they are pointless. Maybe some people fall back into old habits. I was that person for years. I would promise change, see a little progress, then sabotage it and end the year right where I started or worse. Big wins followed by bigger self destruction. That cycle is exhausting and it limits long term growth. Back in 2014, everything was on the line for me. My marriage was strained. My finances were tight. My health was declining. My mindset was dark. I was not showing up as a husband, a father, or a leader. I was going through the motions, and when you do that long enough, you feel the gap between who you want to be and how you are actually living. That gap is misery. What changed was not motivation. It was responsibility. I learned something critical during that season. Doing the right things today does not erase the consequences of yesterday. You still have debts to pay, relationships to repair, habits to rebuild. Progress does not show up instantly. But it does show up consistently if you stay the course. That is where the idea of the 300 Empire came from. Small daily actions compounded over time. Hours in the gym. Hours studying. Hours sharpening skills. Over time, it changes everything. Not overnight, but permanently. That lesson still applies today. Year after year, the investment compounds. When you put that much time into your mind, body, and craft, it becomes nearly impossible to stay the same. You move faster. You gain confidence. You operate with clarity. The same applies to business. Systems, processes, coaching, repetition. None of it is accidental. It all starts with taking care of yourself first. As we move toward 2026, here is the truth. A new year does not fix anything on its own. Doing the right things occasionally does not either. The difference is doing the right things consistently. When you see people far ahead, it is not because they are smarter or luckier. It is because they are willing to do things others are not. The real question is not what you want. It is what you are willing to do. Peace comes when you stop comparing and start deciding. Decide what you truly want. Decide what success looks like for you. Then commit to the actions that support it. There is no bottom to how bad things can get if you avoid responsibility. But there is also no ceiling on what you can create when you take ownership and stay disciplined. Today is always a good day to begin again. Reader reflection questions What patterns from this past year do you need to take responsibility for instead of avoiding What are the daily actions you know you need to commit to but have been resisting What version of success would actually bring you peace rather than comparison Notable quotes “Rarely does someone destroy their life in a single decision. It is usually a series of small moments ignored over time.” “Doing the right things today does not erase the consequences of yesterday, but over time it changes everything.” “There is no ceiling to what you can create when you take ownership and stay disciplined.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39596585

LIMITLESS | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 12/29/2025

LIMITLESS | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about momentum, certainty, and why the next level of growth always demands a higher standard from us. As we head into a new year, I can feel it clearly. This organization is not slowing down. We are just getting started. After years of grit, hard decisions, and building when it was uncomfortable, everything is beginning to align. And that alignment comes from one thing above all else. Internal certainty. Over the last decade, I have learned that confidence does not come from positive thinking or hoping things work out. It comes from conditioning yourself to win. Showing up for the small commitments. Executing on what you said you would do. Setting targets and hitting them over and over again. That repetition creates belief. And belief creates momentum. When obstacles show up, and they always do, certainty keeps you grounded because you know it is only a matter of time before you figure it out. As an organization, we are very different than we were five years ago. The systems are sharper. The execution is faster. The scale is bigger. But the core has never changed. The belief system. The faith. The work ethic. What has changed is the number of people willing to operate at that level together. When you surround yourself with individuals who show up regardless of how they feel, momentum multiplies. Wins stack faster. Growth accelerates. And suddenly what once felt impossible becomes the next logical step. Opening a new office is not about convenience or expansion for the sake of expansion. It is a declaration. It is a statement that we are here to build something lasting. That we are willing to take on more responsibility, more pressure, and more challenges because that is what growth requires. I know there will be stress. I know there will be moments where it feels heavy. But I also know that every new standard feels foreign at first. And if you stay consistent, clarity always follows. What I want people to understand is this. Growth is never about becoming someone else. It is about deciding who you are and refusing to shrink back. When you stop challenging yourself, when you choose comfort over progress, motivation fades. The work slows down. And before you know it, you are watching others pass you by. That feeling is far worse than any challenge that comes from going all in. There is a cost to action, but there is a bigger cost to doing nothing. If something is on your heart and soul, and you have done the work to build the foundation, you owe it to yourself and your family to move forward. Not from emotion. Not from pressure. But from certainty. Certainty that you will not quit. Certainty that you will figure it out. Certainty that this is who you are. As we step into what is next, I want people to take an honest look at the environment around them. The support. The leadership. The access. This is not common. And it is not accidental. It is built by people who refuse to slow down, who hold the line, and who continue to show up even when it would be easier not to. That is what creates something special. And that is what makes the next chapter inevitable. Reader Reflection Questions Where in your life or business are you playing it safe instead of stepping into the next standard you know you are capable of What daily commitments are you either honoring or avoiding that are shaping your level of certainty If you truly decided that this is who you are now, what decision would you stop postponing Notable Quotes “Internal certainty comes from conditioning yourself to win on a consistent basis.” “There is a bigger cost to doing nothing than there is to taking the risk.” “This is not about who I want to become. This is who I am.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39538450

THE EDGE OF YOUR CAPACITY | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 12/22/2025

THE EDGE OF YOUR CAPACITY | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I take a moment to reflect on the powerful lessons learned from witnessing a marathon a true test of endurance, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. This wasn’t just any marathon; it was a moment of transformation for so many people, a reminder that sometimes life requires us to push through pain and discomfort to discover what we’re truly capable of. Over the weekend, I had the privilege of seeing many of our agents and their loved ones cross the finish line of a 26-mile marathon. These individuals willingly chose to endure the physical, mental, and emotional grind of this challenge. To me, it wasn’t about the race itself but about what happened in the process. Watching them struggle through the miles, yet still smile despite the pain, was a beautiful display of human resilience. As I joined them, offering words of encouragement along the way, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences with pushing my own limits. I’ve been there, going through moments of deep struggle whether climbing Camelback Mountain or surviving an Ironman 70.3 triathlon. Each of these challenges, no matter how tough, reminds me of something crucial: that life isn’t about avoiding hardship, but about leaning into it to grow. The True Value of Struggle It’s easy to look at accomplishments as mere checkmarks on a list. But completing a marathon or any tough challenge isn’t about the finish line itself; it’s about who you become in the process. The real lesson isn’t in crossing the line but in what you do after that. What’s next? What will you create from the lessons you’ve learned? This marathon wasn’t the end of the journey for these agents. It was just a checkpoint, a milestone that will propel them to greater things in both their personal and professional lives. After all, when you push beyond your limits, it’s hard to stay the same. It’s not about chasing highs or accolades. It’s about developing the discipline to continue growing every day, beyond the big events, beyond the visible moments of success. For many of our agents, this marathon was more than just a race. It was a stepping stone a reminder that in life, the pain we feel in the moment can lead to long-term transformation. The same applies to our everyday struggles, whether in business, relationships, or personal growth. Life will always challenge us, but it's through overcoming those challenges that we discover the depths of our potential. Reflecting on Life's Journey When we push ourselves, we often surprise ourselves. What was once painful becomes something we look back on with pride. In watching others cross that finish line, I was reminded that each of us has a unique capacity for resilience. Life doesn’t get easier, but it becomes more meaningful when we embrace the discomfort, learn from it, and use it to raise our own standards. We have to keep pushing. There’s no such thing as the “best days” being behind us. Each day is a new opportunity to expand, to grow, and to build on the foundation we've laid. The marathon didn’t define our agents; it merely highlighted what they’re capable of and how much more they have inside them. And that, to me, is the essence of life. Conclusion So, what happens after the race? That’s the real question. As the finish lines fade and the excitement dies down, the work continues. Life doesn’t stop at the big victories. It’s what we do next that shapes who we truly are. And for all the individuals who completed this marathon, I’m excited to see where this challenge takes them. Because it’s never just about running the race. It’s about what you do with the strength you gain once it’s over. Reader Engagement Questions Have you ever pushed yourself beyond what you thought was possible? How did that experience shape you? What’s a challenge you’re facing in your life right now that could push your limits? How can you use this as an opportunity for growth? How do you stay motivated after achieving a big goal? How do you ensure that you continue to grow once the excitement fades? Notable Quotes: “It’s not just about the finish line. It’s about what happens after you cross it, about what you do with what you’ve learned.” “When you push beyond your limits, it’s hard to stay the same. You have to intentionally trip yourself up to go backwards.” “The marathon wasn’t the end of the journey. It was a checkpoint a new standard of what is possible.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39477095

THE NEVER ENDING STORY | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 12/15/2025

THE NEVER ENDING STORY | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery I found myself reflecting on how much can shift in a single weekend. What started as a quick one day trip to see a UFC fight with my daughters turned into a reminder of why I do what I do and why the pressure I carry matters. Being in that arena, watching my girls take it all in, seeing their excitement, their curiosity, and their joy brought me right back to when they were little and would sit next to me watching fights on television. Those were our moments. And now to experience it at this level with them reminding me of our past and showing me what is possible in our future felt powerful. That moment became the backdrop for what hit me on Monday morning. The anxiety. The pressure. The feeling that everything I have built could fall apart in a single moment. It is a feeling I know well, and one that most business owners know too. It shows up even when your life feels like it is firing on all cylinders. It shows up even when everything is going right. And it hit me hard. It was one of those mornings where the weight felt heavier than usual, and even though I pushed through, I had to acknowledge that it was real. What I know now is that this feeling never fully goes away. It is part of the territory when you are building something meaningful. It is part of being a small business owner, a leader, a provider, a person with visions that reach far beyond where you stand today. The fear and anxiety are not signs that something is wrong. They are reminders that growth requires courage. They are reminders that expansion always demands more from you than the last season did. So I journaled, I prayed, I meditated, and I pushed my morning meeting back. Not to avoid it, but to acknowledge it and move through it. Because as uncomfortable as it is, it does not stop me. In fact, it forces me to move. The effort is what makes all the difference. Some days the effort flows effortlessly, and other days it drags. The point is that I keep showing up. What shifted everything for me was hearing Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, speak openly about waking up with fear every single day. He talked about knowing that he must face it head on and take action anyway. Here is a man leading one of the most successful companies in history, speaking the same language that so many of us whisper to ourselves in silence. That interview hit me hard. It reminded me that none of us are broken for feeling fear. We are human. And the people who rise are the ones who continue to move despite it. And it reminded me of why I never let myself forget the lowest points of my life. The years where I felt like I failed my family. Where I felt less than. Where I struggled to see any progress at all. I keep those memories close not because they define me, but because they drive me. They remind me that I never want to go back. They keep me sharp. They keep me aware. They keep me grateful for the chance to lead, to grow, and to build. Everything we experience is part of a never ending story. The fear. The doubt. The breakthroughs. The wins. The losses. It all plays a role in shaping who we are and who we are becoming. And even though it is uncomfortable, I now understand that these feelings are gifts. They create the environment that forces us to expand and forces us to pay attention. They create the space where we learn to respond instead of collapse. As we approach the new year, many people treat December 31 as the finish line and January 1 as the beginning. But it is not. Life and business do not reset. They continue. Your momentum does not disappear because the calendar flips. Your fear does not disappear either. But neither does your grit. Neither does your ability to rise. And when you consistently take the right actions, the results always follow. I believe 2026 is going to require more from all of us. More courage. More effort. More discipline. More vision. And while that is intimidating, it is also exciting. Because everything I have ever wanted has always been on the other side of the unknown. And this next season is no different. The anxiety I felt this morning is slowly shifting into excitement, because I know what we have built, and I know what we can create when we move with purpose. Every time I put my effort into something, I get what I want. That has always been true. And I am leaning into that once again. It is time to rise into the next level of who we are becoming. Reader Reflection Questions Where in your life are you allowing fear or anxiety to slow your momentum instead of using it as a signal to take action What memories or past struggles do you need to revisit so you can use them as fuel rather than as anchors How can you shift your current pressure into purpose and use it to build the next version of your life or business Notable Quotes Everything has a beginning point and a storyline of what it is you want out of every situation The only way to resolve this is through sheer effort and taking action I will never forget how I felt during my hardest moments because those memories keep me sharp and keep me moving Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39388390

ARE YOU BEING UNETHICAL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 12/08/2025

ARE YOU BEING UNETHICAL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I walk through a simple weekend that turned into a powerful reminder about standards, responsibility, and what it really means to live with ethics in your business and in your life. I talk about family time, climbing Camelback, and getting invited into a world of supercar owners and high level business players. But the heart of the message is not the cars or the scenery. It is the internal battle we face when we know we are not living up to who we say we are. I tell a story about driving through winding mountain roads with people who had far more experience than I did. I was out of my league. They had done the reps. They knew the roads. They trusted their skill. I did not yet. That experience brought up fear, hesitation, and a deep awareness of how it feels to step into a space where others are operating at a higher level. It reminded me that growth is a process. You earn certainty through practice, not by comparing yourself to someone who has simply done it longer. This became the framework for the larger message of the episode. Most people think ethics is just not lying, not cheating, and not stealing. We equate being a good person with avoiding obvious wrongs. But I push the idea further. Ethics is also about doing what you know you are supposed to do for your family, for your body, and for your business. It is about living up to the standard you set for yourself. And when you do not follow through, when you stop pushing the envelope, when you leave everything as an option, you are stealing from yourself. You are stealing from your family. You are stealing from your future. That is why many walk around with anxiety, restlessness, and constant pressure. It is not the client who might fall out of escrow. It is not the market. It is not the lead who is not answering. It is the burden of knowing you are out of integrity with your own moral compass. You are not doing the things you said you would do. You are negotiating with your standards. You are ignoring the internal cues that used to feel heavy but now barely register. I use the example of overeating during Thanksgiving and how quickly I felt the weight of it. I felt it mentally, physically, and emotionally because I knew it was not aligned with my standard. But I corrected course immediately. I returned to my routine. I shortened the leash. Many people do not. They have ignored the signals for so long that they no longer connect their misery with their behaviors. They have drifted so far from their standard that they no longer see how they are cheating themselves. The same thing happens in business. When you promise yourself that you will prospect, or follow up, or show up to the office, and you do not, that is unethical. When you let everything become optional, when you blame the market or another agent or your clients, you avoid the truth. The real ethical violation is not doing the work. The real theft is the theft of opportunity, progress, and stability from the people who trust you the most. The message of this episode is simple. If you feel uneasy, anxious, or constantly behind, look in the mirror. The gap between your moral compass and your behaviors creates misery. Close that gap. Raise your actions to match your standard. Stop stealing from your business. Stop stealing from your family. And stop lying to yourself about why you are not where you want to be. You came into this industry to prosper. Act like it. Live like it. Hold your ethics to a higher standard and everything in your life will begin to move forward with power and clarity. Reader Reflection Questions Where in your life or business are you leaving things as an option when you know they should be non negotiable What standards have you set for yourself that you have quietly drifted away from How would your results change if you treated every responsibility as a moral obligation to your family and your future Notable Quotes “There are levels to everything and if something is required in your life it is your duty to rise to that level” “Not showing up is not being ethical because you are stealing from yourself and from your family” “The gap between your moral compass and your behaviors is the misery many walk around with every day” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39296125

A VISION GETS YOU GOING, A STANDARD KEEPS YOU GOING | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 12/01/2025

A VISION GETS YOU GOING, A STANDARD KEEPS YOU GOING | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... I found myself reflecting on the journey that brought me here. It has been a week filled with gratitude and appreciation for what we are building at A Z and Associates, and the moments that continue to shape who I am. Last week Carla and I had the chance to sit with the Lions team for their meeting, and instead of teaching, we were asked questions. Questions about our past, about the struggles we lived through, and how we found a way to rise. It forced me to revisit what shaped the success we have today, not only in business but in our marriage, in our finances, and in our belief that we could rebuild everything we once lost. When I think about that time, I remember how consumed I was by loss. The debt, the lawsuits, the fear of opening the door, the nights I could not sleep because I was drowning in worry. I punished myself for years, sitting in a dark place where I could not appreciate my life or my family. I missed moments with my daughters because I was stuck staring at everything I did wrong. What I did not realize then was that I was only in my twenties, and my whole life was still ahead of me. Five years later everything changed. Ten years later it changed again. Fifteen years later I could barely recognize that version of me. Every problem had a solution. Every mistake had a way forward. I just did not see it because I refused to get up and keep moving. If I could go back I would tell myself to dust off and trust the process. Life gives us the chance to redeem ourselves, but only if we stop sitting in the pit. That reflection followed me into the next day as we hosted our top producers roundtable. This room was filled with new faces, people who once looked at that lunch on social media and said I want to be in that room. And they are. They stepped toward their vision. They spoke it out loud. They worked until that moment became real. We took the group through a vision plan exercise, something I personally live by. I keep an album in my phone labeled vision plan filled with images and statements of everything I want to build. When I looked at my album from two years ago, I realized I have already accomplished ninety percent of it. Some goals took months, others years, but each one reminded me of what is possible when you see it every day and work toward it with intention. A vision gets you started, but a standard keeps you going. That came up again when I sat in church and listened to the pastor speak about the standards we must set for our own lives. Standards give you the certainty that solutions exist. When I began to create the right habits, when I woke up enthusiastic and ready to compete, I found answers faster. But waking up full of fear, full of anxiety, with no discipline to counter it, only drags you deeper. The prime 3 deposits are a standard. Taking care of your body. Feeding your mind. Becoming a student of your business. Those standards pulled me out of the darkest places of my life. They allowed me to overcome things most people will never experience. Enthusiasm ties it all together. I heard a story on a podcast about how airport dogs are chosen. They are not selected based on breed. They are selected based on enthusiasm. The dogs that pace, bark, jump, and engage with people are the ones they take. Not the ones laying quietly hoping for pity. Enthusiasm fuels curiosity. Curiosity fuels action. Action creates separation. When I look at our top thirty, I see that same energy. They show up hungry. They learn fast. They execute immediately. They do not wait for the perfect moment. They create the moment through action. That attitude compounds quickly and becomes momentum. We are heading into the final five weeks of the year and I see the enthusiasm in those who are still pushing. Some agents are chasing two more deals. Some are chasing four. They want to hit the stage at Ignite. They want to finish the year strong. While the rest of the industry is slowing down, they are speeding up. And because they are moving with intention, they will get what they are chasing. Most agents take it easy during the holidays. They convince themselves that buyers and sellers disappear. But those who outwork, out market, and out focus the competition will dominate the month of December. If you treat these next five weeks with fire, you set yourself up for the strongest start to 2026. I expect next year to bring challenges. I expect competition to rise. That is exactly why I stay in the lab, sharpening every skill, adjusting every system, and preparing for what is coming. That certainty comes from the standards I live by. If you want to rise, you must build the standard long before the results show up. Reader reflection questions What standard do you need to recommit to in order to face your next challenge with certainty instead of fear Where has your enthusiasm faded, and how would your results change if you restored it What is one vision you can bring closer to reality by taking action on it today instead of waiting for the perfect moment Notable quotes “A vision can get you going but a standard is what keeps you going.” “Everything has a solution but I wasted years sitting in the pit convincing myself I had none.” “Enthusiasm creates separation because it turns curiosity into action.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39185205

SHUT UP AND LISTEN | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 11/24/2025

SHUT UP AND LISTEN | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about what it means to truly be a student of life and business. Every day is full of lessons some that we see right away and others that show up later as the results we experience. Whether it’s in our health, our business, or our relationships, everything connects back to the choices we make, the awareness we have, and how willing we are to learn. Becoming a Student of Life I’ve always prided myself on being the student. Whether I’m talking to a brand-new agent or someone with twenty years in the business, I want to know how they did it how they got that deal, what they said, what they learned. The lessons are everywhere, but only if you’re paying attention. Too often people show up thinking they already know. They stop taking notes. They stop asking questions. And that’s when they stop growing. That lesson hit home during a dinner with Carla when I met a young realtor from Alabama. He had big goals and a lot going on a real estate business, a logistics company, property management, and even a master’s program. But what stood out was how he never stopped talking about himself. He wasn’t listening. He wasn’t learning. He was chasing acknowledgment instead of wisdom. And I thought to myself, that’s where so many people miss it. They think being busy means being productive. But real growth doesn’t come from doing more things. It comes from mastering one thing and becoming the best at it. The Power of Intrinsic Value Being a student is what builds intrinsic value your inner worth, your certainty, your standard. It’s not what you project, it’s who you are when no one’s watching. That’s why at AZ & Associates, I teach agents to build their personal brand, to show people who they are and what they stand for. Certainty comes from doing the work daily, from sharing what you’re learning, from showing up consistently. We push our agents to post videos, to share their lessons, to document their progress because that’s how you build trust. But most people miss this because they think they already know. They hear the same message and assume it doesn’t apply to them. Yet those same words sound completely different to the person who’s actually doing the work. The difference isn’t in the message it’s in the level of application. Setting the Standard As we head into 2026, the standard has to be higher. Being a student means showing up, asking questions, applying what’s being taught, and learning from every situation. It’s not just about money or status. It’s about character and trust. I only do business with people I can trust people who hold themselves to a standard. Because your business will always reflect your consistency and your character. Don’t chase attention or followers. Chase growth. Build certainty. Build intrinsic value. When you do that, you attract the right people, the right opportunities, and the right clients. Conclusion Life and business are about being the student always learning, always refining, always showing up. Be the person who listens more than they talk. Take notes. Apply the lessons. Set a standard that others have to rise to. Because at the end of the day, your results will always reflect how coachable you are and how much you’re willing to grow. Reflective Questions Where in your life have you stopped being the student? How can you raise your standard to build more trust and certainty? What lesson is life trying to teach you right now that you’ve been avoiding? Notable Quotes “A jack of all trades is a master of none. Focus on one thing and become great at it.” “Certainty isn’t arrogance it’s knowing that it’s only a matter of time before you figure it out.” “Your business will always reflect your consistency and your character.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39129060

SMALL DEPOSITS, BIG RESULTS | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 11/17/2025

SMALL DEPOSITS, BIG RESULTS | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... I shared what it feels like when everything begins to align. There’s this undeniable energy right now a momentum that feels like a tsunami of opportunity. And that feeling only comes when you’ve spent years making small, consistent deposits into yourself. It’s about the preparation before the payoff, the unseen hours before the spotlight, and the faith in what you’ve built when no one else is watching. I used to say it during my Ironman training: we’re doing this alone together. That phrase still holds true in real estate, leadership, and life. Each of us has to put in the work individually, but collectively, we rise higher. What I’m seeing right now inside our organization reminds me of those marathon runners who were once out of shape and uncertain, now setting personal records because they stayed consistent. Those daily deposits physical, spiritual, emotional are what build the capacity to lead, to create, and to sustain growth. The truth is, something massive is on the horizon. But opportunity doesn’t favor the unprepared. If you’re not building yourself daily, that same wave that lifts others could crush you. Many will look for shortcuts or latch onto someone else’s success instead of doing the work themselves. But the real growth comes from understanding that it’s you who must make those daily choices. It’s you who must show up and prove it to yourself before the world believes it. Over the next few months, we’re preparing to announce four major moves that will redefine who we are as a company. These decisions are born out of years of preparation out of the same consistent habits we’ve preached since the beginning. And when I think back on moments like 2020, when others pulled back and we expanded, it reminds me that courage in uncertain times creates legacy. The same principles apply today. I’ve been revisiting books like Loving What Is and The Big Leap, seeing them through a new lens because of all the growth that’s happened since I first read them. What once felt like theory now feels like confirmation. When you evolve, your perspective changes. The same words hit differently when you’ve earned the experience behind them. This business, this life it’s not about luck or waiting for the right moment. It’s about building the right foundation so that when the wave of opportunity comes, you’re ready to ride it. That’s what these last twelve years have been about for me: small daily actions, taken consistently, leading to a lifestyle I once only imagined. From the cars, the home, the Christmas trees we just put up none of it was luck. It was the result of discipline, self-awareness, and faith. And I’m proud of that younger version of myself who refused to give up when things were dark. The guy who felt hopeless but made a decision to change. That decision, followed by daily deposits, changed everything. You have that same power. You can start now, today, right where you are. We’re entering a new era one where preparation meets opportunity. Some will rise, others will get swept under. But if you’ve been doing the work, 2026 will be your year to dominate. So lean in. Revisit the fundamentals. Read the books. Build yourself first, because your growth fuels everything else. We’re doing this alone together. Let’s ride the wave. Reader Reflection Questions What small deposits are you making daily that will prepare you for the opportunities ahead? How often do you revisit your vision and remind yourself that you’re capable of more? When fear or uncertainty creeps in, how do you shift your focus back to discipline and faith in your process? Notable Quotes “We’re doing this alone together.” “Small deposits create big results.” “You can’t build a great life without first building yourself.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/39040465

THE MIRROR NEVER LIES | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 11/10/2025

THE MIRROR NEVER LIES | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... I talk about what it means to take complete ownership of your life, your marriage, your business, and your peace. As we close out 2025, many of us are already thinking about what 2026 will bring, but before we look forward, we need to look back and take inventory of what got us here. For me, the turning point came when I stopped blaming circumstances, people, and markets and started realizing that every result in my life was the direct outcome of my decisions, my habits, and the things I neglected. There was a time when I blamed Carla for how things were going. I thought she wasn’t as involved or supportive as I needed her to be. But the truth was, I had stopped doing the small things that mattered. I stopped holding her hand. I stopped saying good morning and good night. I stopped showing appreciation. Those small, unaccounted for actions, or lack of them, nearly destroyed my marriage. The same thing happened in my business. It wasn’t the market, the rates, or the clients it was the complacency that crept in when I thought I had already earned the right to slow down. I lost my urgency. I stopped growing. I stopped evolving. Everything begins with the small things. The same way small acts of love can heal a relationship, small lapses in discipline can destroy a business. When you stop doing the things that make you grow, you slowly drift into a state of frustration and resentment. You start to carry anger toward others that really reflects the disappointment you feel toward yourself. I had to learn that awareness and ownership were the keys to turning things around. It wasn’t about building vision boards or dreaming of the future it was about fixing the behaviors that led to my pain in the first place. That awareness extended beyond my business and marriage. I started to see how I treated my body, how I fueled myself, how I spoke to myself. I realized that exhaustion, stress, and anxiety were not random; they were the magnified results of what I consumed, what I neglected, and what I allowed to persist. Dysfunction magnifies. Complacency magnifies. But so does discipline, gratitude, and consistency. Today, I rely on habits. Habits keep me grounded when motivation fades. Habits are what saved my marriage, rebuilt my business, and restored my peace. It’s the small acts looking my wife in the eye, hugging my daughters, learning something new for my business, or simply telling myself I’m proud that keep me aligned. The person I am today is the man I once prayed to become, and I don’t take that for granted. Because everything I have now is the byproduct of the small, unseen, daily choices that compound into purpose. Reader Reflection Questions What small habits have you stopped doing that once made you feel connected, driven, or at peace? In what areas of your life have you allowed complacency or entitlement to replace urgency and gratitude? How can you take ownership today for the results you’ve created, and what small actions can you commit to changing right now? Notable Quotes “A leader must be a leader in their own world first.” “It’s never the big thing that breaks you it’s the small things you stopped doing that got you there.” “The person I am today is the man I once prayed to become, and I won’t take that for granted.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38955645

I WANT IT ALL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 11/03/2025

I WANT IT ALL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about what it really means to have it all and the journey it took for me to find peace, purpose, and power in my life. As October comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the years of growth, the pain that shaped me, and the discipline that brought me to where I am today. Finding Purpose Beyond the Struggle There was a time when every challenge felt personal, when my ego was fragile, and every mistake sent me over the edge. I had no emotional control. I would lash out, lose patience, and feel like I was constantly under attack. But I realized that the constant chaos wasn’t life’s fault it was mine. I was missing the capacity to lead myself. I learned that hard work and struggle are not the same thing. Hard work builds, but struggle destroys. It wasn’t enough to make money or chase success. I needed to find fulfillment, to build character, to become a better man, husband, and father. The moment I shifted my focus from chasing results to developing discipline, everything changed. The Awakening Back in 2013, I was at a breaking point. I was financially progressing but emotionally broken. Depression wasn’t something I understood it was a habit I had learned from my environment. I thought something was wrong with me. I told myself I wasn’t gifted, that maybe I wasn’t built for more. But I began to see that the reason we’re here is to create. We were created to create. And through that realization, I started taking control of my life again. I built disciplines that helped me grow in every area: business, marriage, health, and faith. That process became the foundation of what I now call the “have it all” lifestyle. Redefining “Having It All” Having it all isn’t about wealth, power, or recognition. It’s about having fulfillment in every part of your life. It’s about becoming the type of person who can be trusted, who keeps promises, and who operates with integrity. I once thought success meant money first, like Scarface said: “First you get the money, then the power.” But I realized true power comes from self-mastery from building yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The Process of Transformation When I first started this journey, everything was on the line my business, my marriage, my sense of purpose. What saved me was a commitment to simplicity. I narrowed my focus to three daily actions: a power deposit, a purpose deposit, and a profits deposit. That became the foundation for the 12 Week Target Journal. Through that journal, I trained myself to stay in the game no matter what challenges came my way. It was about building capacity, not chasing easy results. And it worked. Years later, I sit here in gratitude for the life I’ve built. I look back and realize that the man I was in 2013 had to die for this version of me to live. The lessons, the setbacks, the breakdowns all of it was necessary. Every hardship prepared me for the expansion I now lead others through. Success as a Responsibility Success is not just a goal; it’s a responsibility. It’s about how you walk, how you talk, how you lead, and who you become. It’s about raising the bar not just for yourself, but for your family, your community, and your team. What we’ve built here is proof that doing the right things consistently leads to extraordinary results. It’s not about luck. It’s about patience, consistency, and faith. The “have it all” lifestyle is not easy. It’s a slow-moving process that demands your full attention every single day. But if you stay aligned, stay disciplined, and trust the process, the results will exceed your expectations. Reader Reflection Questions What areas of your life are still driven by struggle rather than purpose? How can you begin rebuilding yourself through daily discipline instead of emotion? What would “having it all” truly mean for you beyond material success? Notable Quotes “We were created to create.” “Hard work builds, but struggle destroys.” “Success is not a goal; it’s a responsibility.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38869030

RENEWED VISION | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 10/27/2025

RENEWED VISION | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about what it really means to have a renewed vision. After our third quarter review, I walked through the office with a sense of gratitude and energy. The numbers don’t lie, and seeing the results reminded me that momentum is not about luck. It’s about intention, consistency, and self-awareness. Renewed Vision Comes From the Work What I felt that day wasn’t just pride. It was clarity. The kind of clarity that comes when you stop waiting for inspiration and start doing the work that produces it. Momentum fades when we tie our energy only to our results. If we aren’t producing, we lose our drive. But if we focus on becoming better on building a career instead of chasing a moment that energy renews itself. Every agent goes through highs and lows. The difference between those who stay in the game and those who fall off is their ability to renew that vision. To say, “I’m not starting over. I’m beginning again with more knowledge, more experience, and more perspective.” What You Stop Doing and What You Need to Start Doing During our third quarter review, I brought in three of our top producers: Rudy, Rio, and Hillary. They shared how they handle slow seasons, and the biggest takeaway was this: they audit themselves. They ask three powerful questions: What did I stop doing that I need to start doing again? What do I need to stop doing that’s holding me back? What do I need to start doing that’s been on my mind but I haven’t executed? Rudy said his biggest issue was losing urgency. From the outside, he still looked productive posting videos, showing up but he knew his intensity was off. That realization alone gave him the spark to change his rhythm. That’s what I love about our top producers. They’re willing to get in the weeds again. They don’t think they’re above the grind. They’ll roll up their sleeves, work the weekends, rebuild systems, and do what it takes to create momentum. Stop Spectating and Start Creating We can spend so much time watching others that we forget to execute ourselves. It’s easy to scroll, compare, and complain but that doesn’t close deals. If you find yourself spectating, shift back to creating. If you’ve been sleeping in, eating junk, or talking yourself out of following up with a lead, start correcting that today. Renewed vision requires physical and mental energy. You can’t compete if your body is sluggish and your mindset is negative. Smile more. Appreciate your progress. Stop complaining. Tell your spouse and kids you love them. Gratitude resets your focus faster than any new strategy ever could. Go Deeper Instead of Wider Another point we discussed in our review was the importance of going deeper, not wider. Stop chasing new strangers online and start re-engaging with the people who already know you. Your past clients, your database, your sphere these are your strongest assets. If you’re not getting 20 percent of your business from referrals, it’s time to evaluate why. Maybe you stopped calling, stopped sending birthday cards, or stopped checking in. These small, intentional actions are what create lasting success. Renewed Vision Means Remembering Who You Are Renewal doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch. You already have the experience, the skills, and the track record. You just have to remember why you started. You didn’t go through all the hardship just to be average. You didn’t sacrifice time with family just to coast. You’re here to compete, to grow, and to lead. As we approach the end of the year, this is the time to push. Audit your habits. Ask yourself those questions. Eliminate the distractions. Because what you do today determines how you start 2026. Reader Reflection Questions What is one thing you stopped doing that once brought you success and how can you bring it back starting this week? What habits or distractions do you need to stop that are draining your focus and energy? Who in your sphere do you need to reconnect with today to rebuild momentum for the year ahead? Notable Quotes “Beginning again is not the same thing as starting from scratch.” “Stop spectating and start creating.” “Renewed vision means remembering who you are and what you’re made of.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38761130

THE DANGER OF OVERDRAFTING | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 10/20/2025

THE DANGER OF OVERDRAFTING | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about the power of deposits the small, consistent actions that build the life you truly want. The Vision That Started It All This past weekend, I celebrated my birthday surrounded by my family. It reminded me how far I’ve come from that 16 year old kid who dreamed of owning his first car. Back then, I didn’t have the money, but I had a clear vision. I knew exactly what I wanted, and that vision became the fuel that carried me through the work that was required. Every lawn I cut, every car I washed, every dollar I saved was a deposit toward that goal. My parents taught me that work ethic mattered, but I learned early that effort without direction isn’t enough. You need a vision to reinforce your actions. That’s what kept me going knowing that each deposit, no matter how small, was getting me closer to something bigger. When I finally bought that red 1987 Nissan Sentra, it wasn’t just about the car. It was about proving to myself that anything I truly want requires consistent deposits over time. Deposits and Withdrawals That same principle applies to everything in life business, marriage, health, and faith. For years, I forgot that. I worked hard but neglected the deposits that mattered most. In my marriage, I withdrew more than I deposited. I expected peace, connection, and understanding, but I wasn’t putting in the daily effort to earn them. The same thing happened in my business. I made the right deposits for a while, saw success, then stopped reinforcing those habits. When challenges hit, I had nothing left to pull from. I was overdrafted emotionally, mentally, and financially. It wasn’t until my mid 30s that I realized the pattern. The moments I neglected myself skipped workouts, ignored my faith, avoided hard conversations were withdrawals. Every ignored priority created debt that showed up later as frustration, stress, or failure. The Power of Preparation Life will test you. You can make every deposit and still face setbacks. What matters is whether you’ve prepared yourself to recover. When I had surgery recently, I was back at the office the next day not because I’m superhuman, but because my body and mind are conditioned through years of consistent deposits. The same applies to business and relationships. You can’t expect to withstand challenges if you haven’t built the endurance to do so. Most people don’t break because of one bad day. They break because of a slow burn months or years of neglecting the deposits that build strength and clarity. That’s why I train daily. That’s why I eat clean, journal, pray, and stay connected to my purpose. These actions prepare me for the inevitable withdrawals life demands. Living from Surplus The goal isn’t just to make deposits it’s to create a surplus. When you live in surplus, you operate from overflow, not survival. You can give more to your family, your business, your faith, and your community because you’re not running on empty. Scarcity, abundance, and prosperity are all connected. Scarcity is survival mode. Abundance feels good but can vanish with one bad decision. Prosperity is the standard when your deposits are so consistent that even a setback can’t derail you. That’s what I’m building toward every day. Prosperity in mind, body, and spirit. It’s what allows me to show up for my family, lead this company, and continue to grow with purpose. Reflection Questions Where in your life are you trying to withdraw without first making enough deposits? What daily actions could you commit to that would strengthen your spiritual, mental, or physical bank accounts? Are you living in scarcity, abundance, or prosperity and what would it take to reach the next level? Notable Quotes “Anything that I want is going to require deposits.” “Every skipped workout, every ignored conversation, every avoided marketing piece it all adds up.” “The goal is not just to make deposits but to build a surplus that allows you to live from overflow, not survival.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38624155

NERVOUS AS HELL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 10/13/2025

NERVOUS AS HELL | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about something that’s been part of my life for as long as I can remember nervousness. That constant edge of anxiety that creeps in whether things are going really good or starting to slow down. It’s that feeling of a fast heartbeat, like something’s about to fall apart, even when everything is actually working. I’ve learned it’s not something to eliminate, it’s something to understand and manage. The Reality of Nervousness and Growth I’ve realized that this nervousness doesn’t go away no matter how much success you have. My mentors, the ones doing eight figures a year, feel it too. That fear of losing it all, that anxiety that says “what if this doesn’t last?” it’s human. What matters is how we respond. There was a time I thought I was broken because I saw others who seemed constantly confident, always motivated. I thought something was wrong with me for feeling fear even when things were good. But that’s just how we’re wired, especially if you come from instability or scarcity. It’s a natural part of growth. The danger is when we fight those feelings instead of listening to them. I used to get anxious about being anxious, frustrated that I couldn’t just “turn it off.” But now I see it as an indicator. It’s like the check engine light on your car. It doesn’t mean everything’s falling apart; it’s just telling you to check something before it becomes a bigger issue. When Fear Becomes a Signal Most of the time, my anxiety comes from integrity saying I’ll do something and not following through. It’s not really about the post that flopped or the client that backed out. Those are surface level issues. The root is often in what I’ve avoided: the calls I haven’t made, the marketing I’ve stopped doing, or the systems I’ve neglected. When I start feeling that nervousness, I’ve learned to ask: What did I stop doing that I said I’d do? Because those emotions are not punishment, they’re reminders. And for those of us who feel that fear even when everything’s going right, that’s also part of it. I used to ruin good moments vacations, dinners, weekends by thinking something had to go wrong soon. I was addicted to the struggle because I believed success only counted if it was hard. Now I know it’s okay to feel good and still stay prepared. That nervous energy can be redirected into gratitude and intentional action. The Comparison Trap Social media has made it easy to feed our anxiety. We see someone else winning and think it means we’re losing. But success isn’t limited. Just because another agent closes a big deal doesn’t mean there’s less for you. Their win doesn’t take away from yours. Instead of spiraling into “I’m not good enough,” ask, What can I learn from them? What can I apply to my own business? And when those thoughts of failure come in what if my leads stop, what if the market shifts, what if everything changes remember this: it has always worked out. No matter how bad it’s looked before, it’s always worked out. Closing Thoughts As we enter the last stretch of the year, that nervous energy might feel stronger. The market slows, holidays approach, and our minds start racing. But don’t attach meaning to every anxious thought. Instead, use it as fuel to get back to what you said you’d do. Identify it, appreciate what you have, and take action. It’s okay to feel nervous. It’s okay to feel fear. You’re not broken. You’re growing. And just like every other time before, it will all work out. Reflective Questions When you feel anxious or nervous, what commitments or actions have you avoided that might be causing it? How often do you allow comparison to steal appreciation for where you are right now? What’s one thing you can take action on today that will help that nervousness fade? Notable Quotes “It’s like being anxious about being anxious. The real problem starts when you fight the feeling instead of understanding it.” “That nervousness isn’t a sign that things are falling apart it’s a check engine light reminding you to realign.” “It’s okay to feel good and still be prepared. Identify it, appreciate it, and take action.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38545010

YOU WOULDN'T KNOW | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 10/06/2025

YOU WOULDN'T KNOW | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery As we head into the final quarter of 2025, I can’t help but reflect on how quickly this year has passed. For some it has been a year of breakthroughs, for others a season of struggle, and for many it has been the same repeated cycle with no real progress. I know that space well because I spent years stuck there, constantly comparing myself to others, replaying the same broken record of frustration and disappointment. What I learned is that when you remain in that weakened state and do nothing, it always makes things worse. There is no positive outcome that comes from inaction. It took me years of turmoil, fights at home, depression, and setbacks before I finally said enough was enough. I had to let go of arrogance, become a student, and follow a proven model with absolute discipline. That model taught me to take care of my body, grow my mind, and improve my business every single day. Eleven years later, that same discipline has carried me through highs and lows, created stability, and given me the responsibility to teach others to do the same. Last week, I interviewed one of our top producers, Felipe. His story hit hard. His mother in law is battling a terminal illness, and his family is carrying that weight every single day. Yet he continues to show up, smiling, working, and leading his family. He’s able to remain strong because he follows the same model he built in times of peace. He makes his power deposits, his purpose deposits, and his profit deposits, even in the middle of heartbreak. That discipline allows him to stay strong when most would break. And that is the lesson. Discipline is what steadies you when the storms of life hit. Without it, you ride an emotional roller coaster that everyone around you feels your family, your clients, even strangers on Instagram. But with discipline, you create stability. You show up the same way whether life is good or life is breaking apart. You keep moving forward regardless of fear, anger, or doubt. I’ve lived this through every season of my business and my life: from financial ruin, to injuries, to losing agents, to being told the company wouldn’t survive. And each time, I kept showing up, making my deposits, holding to the model. You wouldn’t know my fear or my doubt because I refused to let it dictate my actions. That is what built this company, that is what built my family, and that is what continues to build my life today. So as we close this year, ask yourself: are you operating from feelings, or are you following a standard? Are you making deposits every day, or are you hoping that things just work out? Because without discipline, you don’t stand a chance. With it, you create a foundation that allows you to not only survive but thrive no matter what comes your way. Reader Engagement Questions Where in your life do you need to raise your standard so discipline guides you instead of feelings? How do your family, clients, and peers experience you when things fall apart do they see strength or instability? What daily deposits can you commit to right now that will keep you steady through both success and hardship? Notable Quotes “If you are in a weakened position and you do nothing, it makes things worse. There is no positive that could come out of that.” “Discipline allows you to remain strong in moments of tragedy, in moments of weakness, in moments of doubt and fear but you wouldn’t know.” “Regardless of where I am in life, I show up the very same way day in and day out. But again, you wouldn’t know.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38458520

THE UPPER LIMIT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 09/29/2025

THE UPPER LIMIT | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery I reflected on the way we often sabotage ourselves after hitting milestones in life, marriage, or business. What I discovered is that success is not the final destination. It is only proof of what we are capable of, but if we stop doing the things that got us there, erosion sets in. That erosion often shows up as stress, frustration, and even conflict in relationships. The Upper Limit One of the biggest lessons I shared is the idea of the upper limit. When things are going too well, we unconsciously put a ceiling on how far we can go. Instead of celebrating a win and building on it, fear creeps in. We start asking questions like, “What if I can’t do this again?” or “What if this was just luck?” Those thoughts slowly break down our momentum. I have seen it in my business and in my marriage. A great month in sales, or a great season at home, would unknowingly trigger fear that it could not last. Instead of making more deposits into the relationships and actions that created those wins, I would rest on the belief that things should just stay good on their own. The truth is, success only multiplies when we continue doing the work that got us there. Deflection and Spite Another pattern I noticed is how easy it is to deflect blame when things start breaking down. It is easy to say it is my clients, it is the market, it is my spouse, it is my kids. But weeks or months before, when everything was flowing, I was not saying those things. The problem was not them. The problem was me. I stopped showing up the same way. I stopped making deposits. And eventually the energy dropped, leading to spite and disconnection. Breaking the Dysfunction The dysfunction shows up when we start believing that joy, peace, or prosperity cannot last. We tell ourselves that if things are too good, something bad must be around the corner. That thinking erodes the very progress we worked so hard for. The real challenge is to catch it early. To identify when fear is sneaking in after a big win and to remind ourselves that success is repeatable. Prosperity has no ceiling. When I look back at my own life, both in business and in marriage, the times that desperation took over were the times I failed to catch those upper limits. The key is to take full responsibility. To audit where I stopped making the daily deposits. To remember that success is not luck, it is the result of intention and consistency. Conclusion The upper limit is not the end of your progress unless you allow it to be. Wins are not meant to be one-time events. They are proof of what is possible when you stay committed and consistent. Stop deflecting, stop doubting, and stop fearing that success will disappear. Put in the deposits daily, and prosperity will keep multiplying in every area of your life. Reflective Questions Where in your life have you unconsciously placed an upper limit after a big win? What deposits did you stop making in your marriage, business, or personal growth that once fueled your success? How can you shift your mindset today to see prosperity as limitless rather than temporary? Notable Quotes “The moment you start to fear that it is never going to happen again is the moment you are already eroding your progression.” “Success is an obligation and a responsibility, and it requires daily deposits to keep multiplying.” “It is not about your clients, your spouse, or your kids. It is about what you stopped doing.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38373360

WORK ETHIC IS NOT ENOUGH | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo 09/22/2025

WORK ETHIC IS NOT ENOUGH | Mindset Mastery w/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery I connect three threads that shaped my week leadership work ethic and faith. I walk through a real conversation with my leaders a hard look at my own past and a shocking video that forced me to lead my family with clarity instead of emotion. The lesson is simple. When I keep my work ethic and my faith in place the results I call favor follow. When I chase favor without doing the work or I let distractions run me I lose my edge and I lose my peace. What Happened We met with a small group of team leaders at the office. I reminded them and myself that leadership is stewardship. It starts with how I lead me. It extends to how I lead my family and then my team. I shared my own story from 2018 when the business felt like it broke me. The economy shifted deals fell through agents left and I kept asking when things would turn. The answer was not out there. It was in my daily work and my faith in a bigger purpose than my next commission check. I also revisited an older wound. Years ago I opened my playbook to someone I brought in. He used that access to compete with me. I blamed him. The truth was I took my eyes off my path. I stopped studying. I stopped answering calls. I got complacent. Competition was a gift. It pushed me to evolve rather than gatekeep and stall. After the meeting I saw a graphic video of the killing of Charlie Kirk. It shook me. It brought back the day I was shot and almost bled out. That memory used to carry anger at a friend who froze instead of helping. Today I see his fear for what it was. I chose to lead my daughters through what they saw. I asked them how it made them feel. We talked about fear anger empathy and being human. The point was not to feed rage. The point was to feel the pain and still choose to do good and be good. The Lesson Results are not random. Favor is the byproduct of two things I control every day. Relentless work ethic and real faith. Work ethic means I show up with intention focus and persistence whether it is my health my marriage my clients or my team. Faith means I trust a bigger purpose while I do the work. If I chase favor without those two I become entitled and easily distracted. If I keep those two in place I can face setbacks and even public chaos without losing who I am. How I Apply It I audit my effort before I complain about results. If I am tired have I stopped doing the work to take care of me. If my marriage feels off what actions and attention did I drop. If business is slow where did I cut corners on calls study and skill. I choose conversations that build agency in my home and in my team. I lead through questions and action not through outrage. I keep moving with gratitude and conviction. That is how favor shows up. Conclusion The world will hand you distractions and hard moments. Your response will either drain you or grow you. Keep the standard. Do the work. Hold the faith. Favor follows. Lead yourself first. Lead your home. Then lead your business. That is how you live this message not just hear it. Reader Questions Where have you taken your eyes off your own path and started watching someone else What specific action today would prove your standard in your health marriage or business What conversation do you need to start with your family or team to turn emotion into leadership Notable Quotes “Leadership is a stewardship.” “Work ethic plus strong faith will create the favor.” “Something greater than your next commission check.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38286675

ENERGY FLOW | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 09/15/2025

ENERGY FLOW | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I break down a simple truth I live by every day. Attitude is the foundation. Enthusiasm is the expression. When I move with purpose even on the mornings I feel stiff, tired, and anything but motivated, my actions create the energy I need. People read my face, my voice, my posture, and they respond to what I carry. If I choose purpose, others feel it and follow it. Introduction I did not wake up inspired. My back hurt. My shoulder was tight. I shuffled to the bathroom like a slow old man. Then I walked into the gym and a guy told me I always move with purpose. That compliment reminded me of the standard I set for myself. I do not wait for motivation. I act first. The energy shows up after. Body Awareness creates advantage I know eyes are on me. Clients, team, family, even strangers at the gym read my body language. They decide how far to push, whether to trust, and if they want to work with me based on what I show. When I smile, stand tall, and speak with conviction, I transmit certainty. Certainty moves deals forward. Action before motivation I never count on feeling ready. I get moving and let the movement warm up my mind. Action builds motivation. Motivation builds inspiration. Then I stack more action. That cycle is how I keep momentum, even when my body hurts or my schedule is heavy. Enthusiasm is a skill Enthusiasm is not fake. It is a decision to express what I believe. Shoulders back. Eye contact. Strong handshake. Clear tonality. Words that lead. I do this with my family so they can believe in me. I do it with clients so they can make confident decisions. If I carry worry, they mirror worry. If I carry certainty, they mirror certainty. Lead the room with your presence At the gym I skip every other stair. At the coffee shop Carla and I visit, we are met with smiles and service because we bring the same energy. People respond to the way you enter a space. Move like you have somewhere to be and something to build. Smile first. It opens doors. Say you are the best and then deliver Big claims force big delivery. When I say I market the best, negotiate the best, and deliver the best, I give my subconscious direct orders. Then I back it up with preparation, presence, and follow through. Clients already believe you are the best when they call you. Do not talk them out of it by being timid, worried, or slow. Protect client experience with your tone Problems happen. Appraisals come in low. Inspections get messy. Your job is not to transfer panic. Your job is to take on the worry and lead with solutions. Calm tone. Clear path. People want to feel they made the right decision when they chose you. Practical cues to switch on enthusiasm Smile before you call. Stand up when you negotiate. Use your hands when you explain. Nod to confirm understanding. Keep your voice steady. Dress with intention. If you feel yourself fading, lean your shoulders forward and let your body pull your mind into motion. Forward momentum beats hesitation. Conclusion Attitude sets your standard. Enthusiasm shows the world your standard. Stop waiting to feel ready. Take the action that moves you. Smile with purpose. Speak with conviction. Walk like you mean it. When you do, people feel safe making decisions around you. That is leadership. That is how you produce. Reader Questions Where in your day do you usually wait for motivation, and what action can you take first to spark it instead Think about your last client meeting. What did your face, tone, and posture communicate before you said a word What bold claim about your service are you willing to make today, and what specific action will you take to back it up Notable Quotes Attitude is the foundation and enthusiasm is the expression. Do not wait for motivation. Take the action and let the action create the energy. Clients already believe you are the best or they would not have called. Do not talk them out of it. Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38204630

YOU NEED THE RIGHT SUPPLEMENTS | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 09/01/2025

YOU NEED THE RIGHT SUPPLEMENTS | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I talk about why supplements are not just vitamins. They are the extra inputs that help you operate at peak levels in every area. The lesson started at home with our dogs. Training them myself worked only up to a point. Real progress came when we added expert guidance. That same truth applies to business, health, faith, marriage, and parenting. If you want to last and not just compete for a moment, you must supplement your life. What happened Our dogs used to run wild the moment they got excited. Walks turned into chaos. Vet visits were embarrassing. We brought in a trainer and learned a simple command. Place. This morning both dogs stayed on their beds while Carla and I moved through the house. It was a visible shift. The right supplement changed the entire environment. The bigger idea Supplements are not only in a bottle. They are the people you ask for advice, the coaches you hire, the habits you choose, the food you eat, the books you read, the prayers you make, and the actions you repeat. I used to think all my problems were business problems. I kept hitting the wall until I invested in my faith, my marriage, my kids, and my health. When those deposits increased, my business followed. Ask the right people Many get crushed because they ask the wrong people the right questions. Do not ask for business direction from someone who has never built a business. Do not ask parenting advice from someone who is not involved with their kids. Respect people for what they do well and ask within that lane. I hired coaches for health, faith, business, and family. Carla is my spiritual supplement. I go to her because she lives in the Word and shares from experience. Own your decision Advice is input, not a verdict. If your soul says move and someone says wait, you must decide. Do not hide your fear behind someone else’s opinion. When you outsource your choices, you erode your certainty. Take the guidance, measure it against your values and your vision, then choose. How to apply it today Audit your sources. Write down who you go to for business, for marriage, for parenting, for health, and for faith. Match the mentor to the category. If they do not live what you want, find someone who does. Make daily deposits into the Prime 3 power. Health and fitness. Mental and spiritual fuel. Family and profits through marketing, sales, systems, and leadership. Tighten the basics. Eat better. Move your body. Read daily. Pray daily. Set clear standards at home and at work. Check your environment. Simple commands changed our home. Simple standards will change your business. Conclusion The right supplement replenishes, energizes, and repairs. If you want a life that lasts, stop searching for a single fix in business and start strengthening every area that feeds your purpose. Ask better people better questions. Make your deposits. Then own your decision and move. Reader Questions Who are you asking for advice in each area of your life and do they actually live the results you want What is one deposit you will make today in your Prime 3 power that would raise your standard this week Where have you outsourced a decision out of fear and what choice will you own before the day ends Notable Quotes “It replenishes you, it energizes you, it repairs you.” “Make your deposits every day. The Prime 3 power.” “At the end of the day, you have to own your decision.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/38022650

THE PENDULUM SWING | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 08/25/2025

THE PENDULUM SWING | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... I looked around at our momentum and realized how far we have come. But here is the truth. Growth is never without pain. The market will expose those who do not adjust. It will reveal who is willing to adapt, learn, and push through. I had to remind myself that the grind never stops. And even in the tough moments, I cannot forget the promises I made to myself when I was down. That is where the fire comes from. The story This week I reflected on how the tide of the market exposes everything. When the tide is high, everyone wins. But when the tide goes low, you find out who has the mindset to keep going. I compared it to my own journey. From being recognized as a top agent, to building teams, to running one of the largest brokerages in the state, every level required me to change. It required me to sharpen my skills, build new systems, and keep showing up even when the industry shifted. And that is exactly what is happening now. Many agents are walking away, but many of us are growing faster than ever because we stay in the fight. What shifted The shift happened when I stopped wishing someone else would fix my problems. I used to want someone to run my ads, handle my follow up, or even train my agents for me. But no one is coming to save you. The moment I took full responsibility for my business was the moment everything changed. I became a better trainer, a better communicator, and a better leader. I learned to simplify the game and help new agents close quickly. That ownership made all the difference. The same goes for how we handle trauma. Pain can keep you stuck, or it can push you to grow. I call it post traumatic growth. I lived it after surviving a shooting. Paulina lived it after hitting rock bottom and then selling fifteen million in one year. The difference was a decision to flip the switch. The lesson The lesson is simple. Stop waiting for someone else to fix your life or your business. Take the pain, take the pressure, and use it as fuel. The growth will come when you own every part of the process. Put it to work Track the only KPIs that matter: appointments, commitments, escrows, and closings. Stop wishing for help and start building your own process. Decide today to flip the switch and turn pain into power. Conclusion The market will always test you. It will expose who you really are. Do not waste years wishing someone would come fix things for you. Take ownership and swing the pendulum in your favor. The power is already in you. The only question is what you will do with it today. Reader engagement questions What promises did you make to yourself during your toughest moments, and are you living up to them? Where in your business are you still waiting for someone else to take responsibility? How can you turn your current pain into the power that fuels your next level of growth? Notable quotes "No one is going to come in and fix your business. No one can run it better than you." "The power came when I stopped asking why me and started asking what now." "Pain is no longer pain when you decide to turn it into purpose." Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37916025

HOLDING ON TO THE VISION | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 08/18/2025

HOLDING ON TO THE VISION | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... We just got back from a family trip that we had been talking about for months. For us, planning usually means speaking it into existence, not locking in every detail months ahead. This time was different because Carla and I made a conscious choice before we left. We decided this would be our best trip yet, and we were going to plan not only for the good moments but also for the things that could go wrong. That decision changed everything. What happened Before we even left, Carla and I sat down and set the tone. We talked about how we would handle frustrations so they would not ruin the experience. That mattered because the trip tested us right away. Delayed flights, missed connections, lost luggage, and canceled plans could have derailed everything. Instead, we kept our focus on the bigger picture. There were moments where my old habits almost kicked in. When my daughter’s bag went missing with some of her most valued belongings, my instinct was to ask why she packed certain things that way. But I checked myself. Carla and I gave her the space to feel upset and reminded her it was only material things. That shift in energy kept the trip on track. We also made last minute changes that cost us money. Instead of forcing ourselves to stick to the original plan, we adapted and chose what was best for our family in the moment. The result was a better trip than we could have imagined, even though it did not go according to the script. What I learned A vision will always come with challenges. The dream is the easy part. The real test is how you respond when things go sideways. Too often we obsess over the task or the setback instead of keeping our attention on the outcome we want. In business, this is the same as losing a deal and letting it destroy your momentum. If you have enough conversations, enough follow up, and enough people in your pipeline, one lost client will not shake you. The problem is never just the deal that fell through. The problem is not having enough opportunities in play to absorb that hit. We need to plan for the setbacks as much as we plan for the wins. That way, when the delays, lost luggage, or tough negotiations come, we can pivot without losing our composure. How it applies to you Whether it is a trip, a relationship, or your business, the way you handle challenges will decide if you ever reach your vision. If you let every problem become the center of your attention, you will lose sight of what you were chasing to begin with. Your job is to keep the vision bigger than the current problem. Plan for the good. Plan for the bad. And when things go wrong, remind yourself the result you want is still there as long as you keep moving toward it. Conclusion I am proud of how Carla and I handled this trip because it was more than just about having a good time. It was about showing our kids how to respond when life throws a curveball. That is a skill they will use for the rest of their lives. The same is true for business. You can choose to stay stuck on the setback, or you can check your mindset, refocus, and get back to building the life and results you want. Reader questions How do you usually respond when something throws your plans off track? What steps can you take now to make sure one setback does not derail your entire vision? Are you focusing more on the tasks and problems, or on the end result you truly want? Notable quotes “Your job is to keep the vision bigger than the current problem.” “We need to plan for the setbacks as much as we plan for the wins.” “If this is the worst that can happen, I need to check myself and remember what really matters.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37840170

YEP THERES A SOLUTION FOR THAT | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 08/04/2025

YEP THERES A SOLUTION FOR THAT | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery... I share a story that takes me back to some of the darkest times in my life. Carla and I found ourselves buried under financial problems that felt impossible to overcome. From owning a UPS store that became a financial drain to being on the hook for leases and equipment we thought we had offloaded, I felt completely defeated. I was losing confidence in myself and dwelling on how unfair life felt. What I did not realize at the time was that the solution was right in front of me. Our attorney was one of those divine connections who stepped in at the right time. His calm voice and certainty gave us hope when we felt hopeless. He reminded us that there is always a solution, but it requires action and trust in the process. I had been so focused on outside opportunities that I neglected the most valuable asset I already had, which was my real estate business. It took Carla’s courage to make the phone call to our attorney that started the road to rebuilding our lives. That call was a turning point. It led us to take one step at a time, even when it felt like everything was collapsing. I learned that the worst thing you can do is stop moving. If you stop, you fail. Our attorney reminded us that every successful entrepreneur will face big problems at some point. What separates those who succeed from those who fail is the decision to take the next step, even when it feels terrifying. Opening an office when we had almost nothing left was the move that changed everything. It was a leap of faith that set into motion everything that came after. We paid our dues, we negotiated our way out of debt, and we stayed consistent with our actions. It took years to recover, but that process shaped the life we live today. I share this story to remind you that there is always a solution. You already have people in your life who can guide you if you are willing to listen. You just need to take that first step, even if it is small. Stop saying you do not know what to do. Stop focusing on what you lack. The solution is right in front of you, and it starts with action. Reflective Questions Where in your life are you allowing fear or doubt to keep you from taking the next step forward Who in your life could be that guiding voice if you were willing to reach out and ask for help What is one action you can take today that moves you closer to the solution you already know is in front of you Notable Quotes “There is a solution for that, but you are going to have to trust the process. What you cannot do is sit there and dwell. You have to keep moving.” “Even when everything felt like it was against me, I had to take that one step, and that step changed everything.” “Many of the people who guide us are divine connections, but we have to be willing to open our eyes and ears to see and hear them.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37640680

ARE YOU NEW... OR SOMETHING? | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 07/28/2025

ARE YOU NEW... OR SOMETHING? | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I take you back to a moment that almost broke me and ended up building me. The truth is, most of what holds us back in business has nothing to do with knowledge or skill. It has everything to do with how we react when we feel exposed. That feeling of not being good enough, smart enough, or ready enough. And in real estate, that happens more often than most of us want to admit. When I first got into REOs during the market crash, I was just trying to survive. I didn’t have connections. I didn’t know the game. I was just willing to outwork everybody. I’d stay up for hours doing broker price opinions for pennies, hoping it would open a door. And eventually, it did. But at one of my first conferences, I got hit with something that shook me. I was talking to an asset manager when another agent someone local decided to embarrass me in front of him. I didn’t know what a “tape” was, and he laughed like it was the dumbest thing in the world. I shrank. I went back to my hotel room that night feeling worthless. And in that moment, I believed what he was trying to make me feel that I didn’t belong. What I didn’t realize then is that these moments happen to all of us. Whether you're brand new or been in the business ten years, there’s always someone trying to assert dominance. Asking “Are you new?” isn’t just a question. It’s a power move. It’s someone trying to put you in your place so they can feel more secure in theirs. But here’s what I learned the hard way. That moment of embarrassment became fuel. That agent wanted to establish superiority, but he woke up something in me that would not stop. I became one of the top REO producers in the state. I ended up doing business with that same asset manager he tried to impress. I outgrew that moment. And I outgrew him. Years later, I still see this same dynamic play out with our agents. Newer agents getting shut down by condescending tones. Veteran agents feeling like they should already know everything, so they stop asking questions. That is how growth dies. We don’t have to play that game. We don’t have to respond on their terms. You don’t have to pick up the phone just because someone is calling. You don’t have to explain yourself to someone who’s trying to corner you. Hold your frame. Stick to the facts. And know that your license is just as powerful as anyone else’s no matter how long they’ve had theirs. When I coach my team, I always bring it back to this: confidence isn’t pretending you know everything. It’s knowing you’ll figure it out. It’s showing up anyway. It’s staying calm, making your move, and letting your work speak louder than their words ever could. ### Ask Yourself: Have I ever let someone else’s comment or tone shrink my confidence or momentum? Am I avoiding situations where I feel exposed instead of using them to grow? What would it look like if I treated every embarrassing moment as a catalyst instead of a setback? ### Notable Quotes: “He didn’t realize he woke up a monster.” “You don’t have to answer to anyone especially not on their time.” “Your license is just as good as mine, and I’ve been doing this for 21 years.” Let them talk. Let them posture. And then let your results do the rest. Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37550520

SHOW ME YOUR RESULTS AND I WILL SHOW YOUR COMMITMENT | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo 07/21/2025

SHOW ME YOUR RESULTS AND I WILL SHOW YOUR COMMITMENT | Mindset Mastery W/ A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery I sat with a powerful question: What are your results really telling you about your commitment? Over the past six months, I’ve watched this organization hit record breaking numbers. It’s been our most successful year yet not because the market gave us a break, but because individuals decided to make real, lasting commitments. Not talk. Not hype. But real follow-through. And I’ve felt it in every part of my life, not just business. I used to chase results thinking it was all about grinding harder. But what I’ve learned and what I’ve seen in the agents around me is that your results are never random. They are the byproduct of one thing: your level of commitment. Not your mood. Not your circumstances. Not what your spouse is doing or not doing. Just your commitment. This hit me even more when I got invited to play pickleball with my daughters. I almost said no. It was late, I had to wake up early the next day, and I had a full plate. But I realized something: the invite itself was the win. That invitation is the result of the time I’ve poured into that relationship. The way they love and respect me is not accidental. It’s the fruit of showing up over and over again. And that’s what this episode is all about. The results you have today in your health, your marriage, your business, your confidence they all come down to one thing: how committed you are and what you're doing about it. You can say you want something, but if your actions don’t match up, the fruit doesn’t lie. I’ve watched Carla say no over and over again to things that others give in to. And the result? Everyone wants to know how she looks the way she does. But they don’t see the daily discipline. They don’t see the Tupperware or the missed meals. That’s what commitment looks like in action. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again by their fruits, you shall know them. You can say you’re committed, but your body, your bank account, your relationships, your business they will all tell the truth. This episode is an invitation to reflect. To take inventory. Because there’s no success without sacrifice. And the gap between where you are and where you want to be? That’s called work. Not just any work. The work. The intentional, consistent, focused kind that most people avoid because it forces them to face themselves. But that’s the work I’ve chosen. That’s what’s created the results you see today. And the best part? You can do it too. But it starts with a decision. And then it moves with execution. Every day. Whether you feel like it or not. So what are you going to do about it? ### Reader Reflection Questions: Where in your life are you saying you're committed, but your results say otherwise? What decisions have you been avoiding that, if made today, would begin transforming your outcomes? How would your life change if you approached your relationships, business, and health with the same intensity and focus you say you want your results to reflect? ### Notable Quotes: “Show me your results and I’ll show you your commitment.” “The win wasn’t playing pickleball. The win was getting invited.” “By their fruits, you shall know them.” Let’s go. Let’s do the work. Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37421040

NOW WHAT | Mindset Mastery With A.Z. Araujo 07/14/2025

NOW WHAT | Mindset Mastery With A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I unpacked a concept that has kept me focused, grounded, and moving forward through every high and every low: the Now What theory. It’s a simple phrase with powerful implications, and I’ve been leaning on it more and more as I continue to build our training systems, grow the brokerage, and evolve both as a leader and business owner. ### Obsession With Progress or Obsession With Competition I found myself reflecting on how easy it is to get caught up in what others are doing how another brokerage is scaling, what agents are posting on social media, how many deals someone else just closed. That kind of comparison does nothing but drain your energy. I’ve been there. Hitting 300 million in sales should have felt like a celebration, but instead, I saw someone else hit a billion and suddenly my win felt like a loss. That’s the trap. Every time we compare, we leak power. We trade focus for anxiety. And every moment spent obsessing over what someone else has achieved is a moment taken away from building something meaningful for ourselves. ### The Real Trigger So I stopped asking, Why are they ahead of me? and started asking, Now what am I going to do about it? That one question has reframed my entire perspective. Whether it’s a team member leaving, a deal falling through, or watching someone boast about numbers that don’t even match public records my work is not to prove them wrong or call them out. My job is to get back to work. Get better. Make improvements. Stay in motion. When you feel triggered by a loss, a betrayal, a comparison, a bad review ask the question that actually moves the needle. Now what? ### The Training System That Changed Everything This mindset is exactly how I built the training system we have today. It didn’t come from copying anyone else. It came from frustration. From falling short. From having to record, rerecord, pivot, scrap, build again, over and over. And now? We’ve got the best sales per agent ratio of any major brokerage because I focused on what I could control. One video at a time. One module at a time. One consultation. One workshop. That’s how it all grew. And that’s how it’s still growing. ### Protecting Your Energy Any time you spend your energy trying to stifle your competition, gossip about an ex staff member, or worry about someone taking your clients, you’re avoiding your real work. The truth is, if a client can be taken, maybe you didn’t do what was required to keep them. That’s a hard truth. But it’s the only one that will help you grow. The goal is not to suppress someone else’s business. It’s to improve yours. Obsession over your competition is energy lost. Obsession over your mission is momentum gained. ### It’s Not a Race You don’t need to be first. You just need to keep going. Wanting more is not the problem. Obsessing over how someone else got more is. You finally got that deal? Great. Now what are you going to do about it? You had your best month ever? Good. Now what? There is no finish line. So stop acting like you just crossed one. Keep the momentum. Keep the obsession on your progress not theirs. ### Reflect and Apply 1. Where in your life or business are you currently obsessing over someone else’s success instead of focusing on your next move? 2. What trigger recently caused you to feel like you weren’t doing enough? What is your Now what response to that? 3. What small, immediate action can you take today that brings the focus back to building your business? ### Notable Quotes “Every time we compare, we leak power.” “Obsession over your competition is energy lost. Obsession over your mission is momentum gained.” “The real question is never about them. It’s always: Now what am I going to do about it?” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37369235

WHEN DARKNESS HITS | Mindset Mastery With A.Z. Araujo 07/07/2025

WHEN DARKNESS HITS | Mindset Mastery With A.Z. Araujo In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I dive into something we all face but rarely talk about openly—what happens when the darkness hits. When you’ve been betrayed, when things fall apart, when you feel like you’ve lost everything and the pain is just too much. It’s that quiet moment where negativity creeps in and starts to control your every thought, paralyzing you and making you forget how powerful you actually are. I shared where I’ve been—flat on my back, both figuratively and literally, unable to get up because the weight of failure, financial struggle, and shame was too heavy. That energy is real. It strips you of your memory, your growth, your accomplishments. It makes you forget that you’ve already overcome so much. It turns every little thought into fear, every memory into regret. But here’s the shift. That pain, that shame, those dark moments—those can be the fuel. I don’t try to erase them anymore. I tap into them. Not to wallow, not to relive the suffering, but to remember that if I got through that, I can get through anything. Every one of those painful moments gave me a skill set, a lesson, a mindset that made me who I am. I use that memory now like a weapon. I remember how it felt to be broke, to feel like a failure, to be belittled. But now I say, let me show you what I’m made of. Let me show you that same energy can push me forward. This episode is a reminder that you're not broken. You're battle tested. The power of negative energy is real, but so is your ability to flip it. You’ve already proven you can overcome. And if you can remember that—if you can tap into that place without drowning in it—you become unstoppable. ### Reflect on This: What is a painful memory you usually try to forget—but could actually use as fuel for your next move? Are you dwelling in your past pain or using it to push yourself forward? How can you remind yourself daily of how far you’ve already come? ### Quotes to Remember: “That negative energy is so strong that if it could break me, it can also make me.” “You are undefeated. You’re still here.” “If I can get through that, I can definitely get through this. Let me show you what I’m made of.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: /episode/index/show/badassagents/id/37266940

Do The Work | Mindset Mastery

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