I’ve been spending some time on our Peloton of late and try to maintain a steady routine every day. I was surprised when I completed my workout one day to see that I had logged more distance than previous sessions. Although my stats have been very consistent, I didn’t think much of it until the next day when I went further again. At that point, I realized the resistance knob was set at a higher level, which is why my numbers were amplified.

I found myself thinking about my workout metrics later that afternoon after a meeting with my team. It didn’t really register at first that I would end up going farther on the bike by increasing the resistance of my peddling. Apparently, because I am using more force to accomplish the same action, I accomplish more.

I cannot help but think about how apt this lesson is for so many of our encounters in life. When faced with a challenge or uncertainty, some people tend to hesitate or give up. In contrast, others persevere through the resistance, which usually puts them in a far better position than before. Life can sometimes be complicated and overwhelming. It’s very natural and understandable that a person might slow down when faced with doubt and indecision.

We often look to see the work habits and routines of influential entrepreneurs to see what they are doing to achieve their success. I would point to their drive and determination when faced with conflict as one of their guiding principles. Indeed, resistance can be one’s greatest asset and liability when viewed through this context.

Statistics show that tens of millions of homeowners have still not taken any actions despite the historical numbers we have experienced in the housing market. The average household could save over $260 per month with a simple refinance. Recent surveys by Bankrate and Zillow have shown that “confusion” was the most common reason homeowners resisted taking any financial action despite the benefit.

Granted, the loan process is a very daunting undertaking. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been invested by companies who are trying to streamline the mortgage experience. Despite these efforts, so many remain sidelined. To be honest, I can’t blame them. Technological advances have further removed human interaction and have not adequately addressed the concerns of those who are hesitating. They need guidance; they need hand-holding; they need someone they can trust.

Your home is likely your greatest asset. Merely checking online portals to see your current home value and appreciated worth does not in itself bring benefit. Have you had a conversation with someone about how to maximize your current equity? I don’t mean getting a home equity loan—I mean properly understanding how to optimize your asset today and how to achieve the maximum profit when selling—whenever that is.

Your mortgage is also your greatest liability. Everyone knows that, but not everyone is optimizing their mortgage to reduce expenditures and build wealth. Interest rates are beginning to inch higher, and the news continues to speculate about the future of real estate prices after historical records. The Fed has already told us they are going to act. Do not resist these golden opportunities while they are still here.

Shout out and Happy Birthday to Yves Bettan, Avia Blum, Tali Dulitz, Steve Ebbin, Ari Feferkorn, Elissa Finkelstein, Dave Friedlander, Robin Goldberg, Sam Lightstone, Etan Mirwis, Dr. Oran Pachter, Rabbi Andy Schultz, Karen Seliger, Mike Sweetney, Karen Wagner and Marc Zwebner

Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871) is President and Chief Lending Officer at Approved Funding, a privately held local mortgage banker and direct lender. Approved funding is a mortgage company offering competitive interest rates as well as specialty niche programs on all types of Residential and Commercial properties. Shmuel has over 20 years of industry experience, including licenses and certifications as a certified mortgage underwriter, residential review appraiser, licensed real estate agent, and direct FHA specialized underwriter. He can be reached via email at [email protected].