‘Learn to Fish’ and More, Advice from Dads on Father’s Day

For many of us, Father’s Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the wisdom, insights and lessons our fathers have imparted upon us along the way, making us stronger, better people as a result. On this Father’s Day, Elliman Insider caught up with Elliman agents across the country to see if they would  share the best piece of advice their fathers have provided to them over the years. We hope you enjoy them and maybe even find some inspiration. Happy Father’s Day! Michael S. Lorber, New York City, NY Advice: “In this business, sometimes you kill yourself and nothing happens and sometimes you get lucky and it all happens.” – Howard M. Lorber Dwaine Smith II, San Diego, CA Advice: “What others say or think about you doesn’t determine who you are, don’t worry about fitting in when you are custom made.” — Dwaine Smith Sr. My father always wanted me to know that other’s opinions of me didn’t determine my worth. He was consistently telling me I could be anything I wanted in this world and that the fact I looked different than most of the people who were “successful” didn’t mean I couldn’t reach their level…or higher. Listening to his advice has helped give me the confidence and focus needed to navigate through my career in different industries. Often times I look different than most in the room but remembering his words allows me to keep my head high and be true to myself. George and Manny Sarkis –  Boston, MA “Work hard, love what you do, treat others with respect and always put your family first.”- George Sarkis, Sr. Lauren Garrity, Aspen, CO Advice: “Learn to fish.” – George Huggins It came from the old saying and although I didn’t always get it when I was younger, I think it’s the best advice George ever gave me.  He instilled in me the importance of being able to take care of myself.  He gave me the tools; provided knowledge and wisdom; and would always say “PMA (positive mental attitude)”.  Today I am independent, confident, and so grateful to be working with my dad at Douglas Elliman. Gigi Huang, Houston, TX Advice: “Always fill the customer’s water glass when it’s half empty.” – James Huang This describes the customer service I deliver to my customers for 40 years as a restaurateur and now as a realtor. My father taught and conditioned me to anticipate the customer’s need instead of waiting for them to ask. It’s his metaphor for delivering excellent customer service but also not being lazy and that you should always fill your own glass if it’s starting to become empty. Carol Nobbs, Hamptons, NY Advice: “If you live your life as you are beautiful, you will be happy and healthy.” – Carl E. Tavolacci My dad actually sent me many quotes in emails, or mailed letters to me. He was a lawyer and land developer. 104 years old at his death, he was totally compos mentis until the end, day trading, driving, advising his clients gratis. Bianca Silvers – St. Petersburg, FL Advice: “Remember that pain never lasts.” – Jorge Prieto My father defected from Cuba in the ’50s with a baseball team while Castro had taken power. He worked very hard and is extremely proud to be an American. When he was 78yrs old he decided to get his real estate license along with us so we could study as together. he is in a word, unstoppable. He always treats people as the most important person in the room and never let his humble beginnings be the defining part of him. Right now he is going through radiation for Cancer. He wakes up at 6 am to catch his ride and he has made another friend in the driver that takes him every day. Nicki Riettie, Fort Lauderdale, FL Advice: “You always have time to stop and help someone.” My dad taught my brothers and sisters and I to treat everyone well, especially the people that are normally invisible. Daddy would go into the grocery, drug store, post office, bank or wherever, and everyone working there knew him by name,  because he was nice to everyone working there, smiled and treated those who would normally be considered invisible with respect and appreciation. And that was for whether they were the janitor, cashier, service clerk, manager or owner. That really stuck with me.