Introduction
I’m writing this article to update everyone on what I have been up to over these last few months. I also want to share my experiences with anyone who might be going through something similar. If my story can help even one person, that would mean the world to me.
During this period, I’ve learned so much about myself, and I am forever grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into a better person. I feel that I owe it to my audience to provide some context regarding my absence on social media.
Career Transition: Leaving REMAX Malta
About 18 months ago, I resigned from my position as CEO at REMAX Malta. This was somewhat of a strategic move on my part; however, it came much faster than I expected. After 25 years of running a company that I built from the ground up, I suddenly found myself in a supporting role.
I’ve always been a doer, thinker, strategist, and executor. For 25 years, my life revolved around this business—sometimes to the detriment of my family and other responsibilities. It was time for a change. While my mind was made up, my heart wasn’t ready for such a drastic shift. Needless to say, it didn’t go down as well with me as I had hoped, and I took it quite personally.
Building and growing a business is like raising a child—you nurture it, watch it grow, and then one day, you have to let go. For me, stepping away felt like a profound loss, even though I knew the company was in good hands. Succession planning is essential for any business and should be handled appropriately. Although we did everything right in that regard, it still hurt deeply and hit me hard emotionally.
Years at REMAX Malta
Sometimes life throws challenges your way as a sign that it’s time to move forward. I spent many wonderful years running REMAX Malta—first as COO for 15 years and eventually as CEO. Over those years, I worked in nearly every role imaginable within the company.
I started as a real estate agent and later managed an office in our real estate operations. Along the way, I learned how to build a brand from scratch, fix PCs and handle IT maintenance, create and develop two software programs from the ground up, work closely with trainers on agent development, and ultimately become a leader in the real estate industry.
Changing Culture from Within
As CEO, my primary mission was to change the culture of the company—from one dominated by competitive infighting among agents (often office against office) to one where inclusivity and collaboration thrived. My goal was to unite everyone under shared objectives so we could dominate the real estate industry together.
One piece of advice that stuck with me came from the President of REMAX Europe: “Jeff, if you don’t change something, you’ll continue achieving the same results. Start changing things, and you’ll start seeing change—until the stars align again.”
This inspired me deeply. We had built REMAX Malta into one of the fastest-growing companies in Malta for over a decade. However, success had brought its challenges—ego and complacency threatened our foundation.
The process of creating change wasn’t easy. It required countless meetings with strategy groups and focus groups involving agents and managers. It took around 18 months before we started seeing results. Unfortunately, not everyone embraced these changes—some were unwilling to adapt their way of thinking or strategy—and we had to let them go.
Navigating the COVID-19 Crisis
We started implementing our change strategy in 2019. Then COVID-19 hit in 2020 during the final stages of execution. While this crisis brought us closer together as a team, it also accelerated some departures within our network.
During COVID-19 lockdowns, we delivered over 60 webinars featuring international guest speakers who provided valuable insights for our agents. Our goal was simple: ensure our agents were prepared to hit the ground running once restrictions lifted. Virtual viewings became standard practice during this time—and when lockdowns ended—we achieved record-breaking sales.
We turned to technology—specifically our custom-built CRM—and began gamifying its features. By recognizing agents who excelled at small but critical tasks supporting high-performing colleagues, we fostered healthy competition. These efforts paid off: production per agent grew from €1.5 million in sales annually to over €2 million, even with 100 fewer agents.
Letting Go of Ownership
As many of you know by now—I stepped down as CEO several months ago—and within a few months – I will no longer be co-owner at REMAX Malta.
This decision has been mine all along—and contrary to speculation—it had nothing to do with strained relationships between myself or my partners (including family members). The truth is – I needed more out of life than what running REMAX could offer anymore.
Mental Health Awareness and Guidance
My decision came with unexpected consequences—I found myself battling depression shortly after leaving REMAX Malta behind.
There were days when even seeing loved ones felt impossible. I isolated myself, slept excessively, and turned to unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating or drinking. I gave my wife, Mina, no choice but to leave me because I was out of control. Dealing with my depression in the worst way possible. Depression is real, and it will hit you when you least expect it.
After damaging myself, and making countless attempts to save my marriage in the most ridiculing way, I decided to start focusing on myself; exercising daily, reading and creating a healthy lifestyle I battled and came out of my depression. Eventually, after a while, my wife accepted me back and today we are happy again.
Mental Health Awareness: What I Went Through and What Others Should Watch For
One of the most important parts of my journey was my battle with depression. I’m including this not just for myself, but to spread awareness—especially to other men who may be silently struggling like I was.
Here are some signs and symptoms I personally experienced, and that others might watch for:
– Persistent sadness or emotional numbness that doesn’t go away.
– Lack of motivation or energy to do even the smallest tasks.
– Withdrawing from loved ones and avoiding social interaction.
– Oversleeping or suffering from insomnia.
– Turning to alcohol or overeating to cope.
– Losing interest in hobbies or passions that once brought joy.
– Feeling worthless or overwhelmed with guilt.
– Difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly, or making decisions.
It’s important to understand that these are not weaknesses. These are real symptoms of a mental health condition that many people—especially men—often ignore or hide due to stigma. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, talk to someone. Reach out. Help is there.
My recovery took time, therapy, and honesty—with myself and with others. I nearly lost everything, including my marriage. But through effort, vulnerability, and the love of my wife Mina, I found my way back.
If this resonates with even one man reading this, please know: you’re not alone, and there is strength in asking for help.
New Beginnings: Business Ventures Ahead
After overcoming these challenges, I’ve embraced new beginnings with renewed energy. My wife and I are working together on several projects, including her brainchild—a cosmetic product line specializing in eyelash extensions. Watching her passion come to life has been incredibly rewarding.
At the same time, I’m diving back into real estate with a focus on redefining industry standards:
- Offering specialized services that minimize conflicts of interest between buyers and sellers.
- Representing buyers exclusively while collaborating with trusted agents for sellers.
- Developing training programs for agents to enhance their branding skills and build confidence.
- Promoting Malta as a destination of Excellence
Conclusion
Looking back on these past few months, I realize how much I’ve grown. Stepping away from REMAX Malta, while planned, triggered a deeply personal struggle with depression that I never anticipated. It was a dark period marked by isolation, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and a real threat to my marriage. But I refused to let it define me. Through therapy, self-reflection, and the unwavering support of my wife, Mina, I fought my way back. I learned the hard way that mental health is just as important as professional success and that vulnerability is not a weakness but a path to healing. Now, I’m excited for the future. I’m supporting Mina’s entrepreneurial dreams, and I’m diving back into real estate with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to redefine industry standards and help others along the way. I share my story in the hope that it will encourage anyone else struggling to seek help and know they are not alone.
Key Takeaways
- Career Transitions Can Be Emotionally Challenging: Leaving a long-held role, even a planned one, can lead to unexpected emotional distress, as it did for me.
- Mental Health is Paramount: My experience taught me that depression is a real and serious condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their professional success. Recognizing the signs and seeking help is crucial.
- Vulnerability is Strength: Sharing my struggles, especially my battle with depression, was difficult, but it was also a vital step in my recovery. It’s okay to ask for help.
- Support Systems Are Essential: The love and support of my wife, Mina, were instrumental in my recovery. Having a strong support system makes all the difference.
- Change and Adaptation Lead to Growth: Embracing change, even when it’s painful, can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. I’m now focused on new ventures and redefining my approach to real estate.
- Business Success Doesn’t Equal Personal Well-being: I learned that professional achievements don’t guarantee personal happiness. Prioritizing mental health is essential.
- Signs of Depression Should Not Be Ignored: I shared the specific symptoms I experienced to help others recognize them in themselves or their loved ones. These are not weaknesses but signs of a condition that needs attention.
- New Beginnings Are Possible: After facing and overcoming my challenges, I’m now energized and excited about the future, both in supporting my wife’s business and in my own new ventures in real estate.
