How did you find James’s article? Above, I have taken James’s simple graphic and butchered it by adding:

• On the left is a blue circle representing a state of no motion and no action, where life remains tranquil regardless of market conditions and external noise. If your PPPs (Price, Position, Presentation) are strong enough, sometimes someone else’s action comes along and captures you at your best! It’s a smart way to live your life and enjoy your family.

Example: I have essentially lived in the same place for the last 33 years, transitioning from coupledom to raising kids, through divorce, to being single in older age, and having the kids return home at times to save (intergenerational living). I have done nothing, yet the home’s value, supported by good PPPs, has consistently increased by simply staying put and not taking action.

• On the right is action—yes, but with an ear for feedback and the readiness to pivot if necessary. In this market, like a lemming, your actions or those of your agent could lead you off a cliff.

Example: Auctioning a C-Grader, which in the current market can be an overpriced  A-Grader.

I completely agree with the famous American coach John Wooden, who said, ‘Activity is not necessarily achievement,’ although perhaps he didn’t mean it this way. He likely meant that action is often better than mere motion.

However, as we grow wiser, we sometimes find that inaction is better than constant motion.

Sometimes, we can simply be without doing anything.

Sometimes the market is saying rest easy my friend and wait till another day (seller) or be brave and seize the opportunity  (buyer).

Ah, the days of no email, no phone, and a peaceful walk in the mountains.