Can you explain your book's title, We Plan, God Laughs (Doubleday, 2008)?

It's from a Yiddish proverb, "Mann traoch, Gott läuch." My grandmother used to say it to me when I was down. In those days, I didn't find it comforting. It made me feel that God was laughing at me and at others when our plans didn't turn out as we hoped. Now I believe that God actually is laughing with joy at our tremendous potential. He wants us to know that while our plans don't always work, something better is awaiting us. Once I truly understood the meaning of the proverb, I wanted to share it.

Some salespeople are really struggling these days. What should they do now that many of their business plans aren't working out?

People shouldn't automatically think about quitting their profession because the market's down. They should change the way they approach their work by focusing on their talents. If you've always been a good marketer, try something different, like expanding your market area. Also remember that your financial success doesn't represent your self-worth. For me, success is about having a partnership with God so we're not alone. You don't have to believe in God for this to be true, but you must believe in something greater than yourself.

You encourage readers to find their "divine spark" through your 10 steps. Would you explain this and relate one step to selling real estate?

Many people think a divine spark is about making money. It's not. A divine spark helps us light up ourselves, infect others, and bring out everyone's best. One way to do so is to find meaning in your life. Maybe you're a great listener who hears clearly what your buyers want. Maybe you're a terrific communicator who can describe to a seller why your marketing strategy will work. Maybe you can stage a house. You don't have to be the next superstar. Your gift can be quite regular, but it's your gift.

According to you, "fine" is not enough.

Fine implies settling. On the other hand, having unrealistic expectations isn't good either. Trust your gut to know if what you have feels like it's lacking. Remember nothing of value happens in an instant. Set a realistic timetable, whether you're learning to bake chocolate chip cookies or waiting for a good offer.

A challenging economy can lead to interpersonal problems. How does a salesperson use your steps to cope with challenges—perhaps, a nervous buyer unraveling a deal? Act compassionately and don't get annoyed. Realize that the person may be as scared as you are about the deal not working.

You talk about the need for people to enjoy the process as much as the destination. How can practitioners do this?

Get to know the houses you list or sell. Get to know the people you represent by matching them to a house rather than thinking only of a sale. We're trying to find a new house. Our first salesperson was more concerned about the amount we could spend than helping us. She didn't think our budget was much for our Los Angeles market. Our new salesperson heard our concerns. She valued us; we valued her advice.

For more on Sherre Hirsch, visit www.sherrehirsch.com.