Perfectly Imperfect: Lessons from Life and Real Estate in Tulsa
Let’s get one thing straight—I am not perfect. For years, I sure tried to be. I thought if I could do everything just right, life would fall perfectly into place. But let me tell you, my life is anything but perfect. Strangely enough, it’s also quite perfect at the same time.
Our lives are shaped by the choices we make. Every choice—whether big or small—takes us down a certain path. Sometimes it’s a great path, other times… not so much. I’ve made some brilliant choices, some not-so-brilliant ones, and a handful of downright dumb ones (anyone else with me here?). But through it all, I’ve learned one crucial thing: Life isn’t about being perfect—it’s about trying your hardest, giving 110%, and learning from the outcomes.
This mindset has shaped not just my personal life but also my career as a realtor here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. If you’ve never been to Tulsa, let me set the scene for you. It’s a quiet, charming city where life moves at a slower, more thoughtful pace. The cost of living is refreshingly low, and the homes? Oh, the homes! You can buy a stunning, spacious property here for what feels like pennies compared to most other cities in the U.S. We experience all four seasons here, from beautiful spring blooms to the crisp chill of fall. And the people? Kind, friendly, and always ready to greet you with a smile.
Tulsa may not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s a hidden gem. Did you know Tulsa was once considered the richest city in the world? During the early 20th century, the oil boom put Tulsa on the map, earning it the nickname “The Oil Capital of the World.” Wealth from oil and gas built some of the city’s most iconic structures, like the stunning art deco buildings downtown, and its history that still echoes in the city today. Over the years, Tulsa has evolved from its oil-rich roots into a thriving, modern city with a strong sense of community.
Over the past few years, it’s been catching the attention of people across the country, especially since the pandemic. Programs like Tulsa Remote even paid people up to $10,000 to move here and work remotely, which introduced a whole new wave of people to our city. It’s been fascinating to see Tulsa transform into a hub for creatives, remote workers, and families looking for a better quality of life. As a realtor, it’s been an absolute joy to help people from all over the world find their homes here.
The Wild World of Real Estate
After 12 years in real estate, I have seen it all. I’ve had transactions so smooth they felt like a dream and others so chaotic they could have been straight out of a reality TV show. When you’re dealing with homes (and the people buying or selling them), you never know what to expect.
As chaotic as it can get, I wouldn’t trade this job for anything. It’s taught me patience, resilience, and how to roll with the punches. Plus, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge along the way—everything from navigating tricky home inspections to spotting the warning signs that a buyer isn’t quite ready for homeownership. These lessons are gold, and I can’t wait to share them with you as this blog grows.
Life in Tulsa: A Local’s Guide
If you ever find yourself in Tulsa (and I hope you do!), there’s so much to love about this city. I’ve lived in nearly every corner of it—Midtown, Broken Arrow, Jenks, and now out in Mounds, a quiet little area just outside Bixby. Each part of Tulsa has its own charm and personality, but one thing they all share is a strong sense of community.
Some of my favorite things about Tulsa are the restaurants and things to do. Whether you’re craving barbecue, Southern comfort food, or something a little more upscale, there’s a spot for you here. I’ll be sharing plenty of recommendations in future posts, so stay tuned if you’re a foodie like me!
Beyond the food, there’s a lot to explore. Tulsa is home to some incredible parks, museums, and cultural events. One of my personal favorites is the Gathering Place, a massive riverside park that’s perfect for families, date nights, or just soaking up some fresh air. If you’re into music, check out the legendary Cain’s Ballroom or the BOK Center for live performances. If you’re visiting in the fall, make time for the Tulsa State Fair—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss and our Oktoberfest, ranked one of the top in the United States.
A Little Reflection
A Little Reflection
As I reflect on my life, I can’t help but laugh at how far I’ve come. There was a time when I thought I had to be perfect to be successful or happy. But life has a funny way of humbling you, doesn’t it? The truth is, we’re all a little messy, a little flawed, and a little chaotic—and that’s okay. It’s those imperfections that make life so beautiful.
If there’s one piece of advice I can leave you with today, it’s this: Try your hardest. Whatever you’re doing, give it everything you’ve got. If you’re not giving it your all, ask yourself why. Life is too short to settle for half-measures. Whether it’s your career, your relationships, or your personal growth, pour your heart into it. Even if you make mistakes (and you will), you’ll know you gave it your best shot.
What’s Next
I hope you’ll stick around as I continue to share stories from my life—both the funny ones and the heartfelt ones. Whether it’s lessons from my real estate career, tips for making your home feel like a sanctuary, or reflections on faith and personal growth, I promise to keep it real, honest, and (hopefully) entertaining.
Thanks for joining me on this journey. Life isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes it so incredible. Let’s embrace the messiness, laugh at the chaos, and make the most of every single day.
With love and gratitude,
Tiffany Johnson
