We recently connected with Eliana Benigar and have shared our conversation below.

Eliana, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

The most significant leap I ever took was relocating to the United States at the age of 21 with a very limited English proficiency at the time.

Back in my home country, I enjoyed the security of a stable job, unwavering family support, and a nurturing environment that provided all the comforts of life. Nevertheless, I felt an inner restlessness and an insatiable curiosity that compelled me to explore the world, connect with people, immerse myself in different cultures, and advance my career. At that point, my exact career path remained undefined.

Fueled by my naturally driven personality, I couldn’t wait for opportunities to come to me. I proactively sought out ways to turn my dream of studying/working abroad into reality. During that time, I dedicated myself to volunteering with an organization known as AISEC. This organization aims to assist international students in impoverished communities worldwide. Through my involvement, I forged numerous connections with people from diverse backgrounds, many of whom have remained cherished friends to this day. I’ve come to regard these friends as an extension of my own family.

My time volunteering there provided me with a new perspective on life, one that encouraged me to explore the world beyond my homeland. This newfound outlook prompted me to embark on a journey of research and self-discovery, ultimately leading me to apply to a university in the United States.

Initially, I harbored a dream of settling in New York City, but the daunting size and fast pace of the city made me apprehensive. Yet, I firmly believe that true personal growth occurs when we venture beyond our comfort zones. Being overly comfortable, while appealing, can stifle our growth and creativity. Therefore, I resolved to confront my fears and embrace change, recognizing that it was the only way to truly discover my potential.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Back when my career began, I was a university student in California, grappling with a tight budget as I tried to meet my monthly expenses. It dawned on me that many of my fellow students frequently returned home, leaving their apartments vacant.

So, I proposed a win-win solution: I offered to rent out their apartments on Airbnb for short periods and generate some extra income. This venture grew beyond my expectations, eventually encompassing the management of approximately 180 apartments in Los Angeles. While most of these apartments belonged to fellow students, word-of-mouth referrals soon expanded my client base to include families and individuals with second or third homes. However, in 2019, the landscape changed when The City of Los Angeles passed strict regulations, effectively ending my Airbnb operation. It was then that I decided to pivot my career by obtaining a real estate license and leveraging the valuable connections I had made.

My foray into the world of real estate began with an internship under a reputable broker. Over time, I gained the confidence to venture out on my own. Three years later, I realized a long-held dream of relocating to New York City. This move marked a significant step forward in my career as I sought to explore the vast real estate market of the Big Apple.

My journey into the realms of Feng Shui and Interior Decor has its roots in a profound connection I’ve always felt to my inner self and spirituality. This connection may have been nurtured by my upbringing in a small Patagonian town. I firmly believe that the energies that envelop us can profoundly impact our lives, both personally and professionally.

In 2021, a desire to further enrich my career beyond real estate prompted me to seek a complementary avenue—one that would deepen my connection with clients and address their unique needs. That’s when I stumbled upon Feng Shui and decided to embark on a journey of learning through courses and classes. I initially applied this newfound knowledge to redesign my own apartment and assist some of my friends with theirs. However, it was only after my move to a petite apartment in NYC, where I felt overwhelmed and uncomfortable, that I fully embraced my “hidden” skills for creating harmonious energy in spaces.

Beginning with my modest studio in midtown Manhattan, I gradually expanded my passion for Feng Shui into a thriving business. This venture is not only a source of personal growth but also integrates seamlessly with my real estate background. Many of my clients now seek my expertise when transitioning to new living spaces, and they often tap into my insights for significant property acquisitions. As a result, my journey continues to evolve, drawing upon the synergy between Feng Shui and real estate to enhance the lives of those I serve.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

There are valuable lessons I’ve encountered on my journey, and they revolve around both unlearning and acquiring new habits. Habits, in particular, play a significant role in our daily lives, often shaping our present circumstances. Developing self-awareness and consciousness is crucial for personal growth, which in turn impacts our business endeavors.

Many of these habits are deeply ingrained in our minds and thoughts, and sometimes we find ourselves stuck in destructive patterns where we constantly anticipate negative outcomes as we search for solutions. This tendency is common among individuals prone to anxiety and overthinking, myself included. I believe the key to breaking free from this cycle is staying firmly grounded in the present and crafting solutions based on our current circumstances, rather than revisiting past approaches.

While it’s true that past experiences can occasionally offer insights, especially in real estate, where deals vary significantly, it’s essential to foster creativity and remain fully engaged in addressing the unique challenges we encounter at the moment. For me, one of the lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the urge to rely too heavily on past solutions. Instead, I’ve learned to stay present, recognizing that each deal and client, while potentially sharing similarities with the past, is ultimately distinct, and I possess the capability to create innovative solutions in the here and now.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

There are a select few books and documentaries that have profoundly impacted both my personal life and, in the long run, my business. I firmly believe that our inner world is reflected in every aspect of our lives, including our businesses and the relationships we cultivate, our friendships, and our clientele. We definitely attract to our lives who we are.

One such book is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, which I consistently turn to during times of transition. Each reading yields fresh insights and lessons, making it a timeless source of wisdom. While it may be perceived as a coming-of-age novel, it offers valuable insights for readers of all ages.

Another cherished favorite of mine is “Think and Grow Rich.” Additionally, “Anatomic Habits” and “The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People” have greatly influenced my mindset and approach to both personal and professional development. More recently, I read “The Mountain Is You,” a book that fosters self-awareness and personal growth.

I’m also an avid follower of Joe Dispenza, and I wholeheartedly recommend the documentary series “Rewired” associated with his work. It’s a transformative exploration that I believe can benefit anyone seeking personal growth and a change of mindset.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elliman.com/newyorkcity/associate/527-a-df23080215095265511/eliana-benigar
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliebenigar/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliana-judith-benigar-309254167/
• Other: Fengshuiwithellie is my Feng Shui website, currently under construction.

Image Credits
William Shepherd