Sydney builder and property developer Mark Ensom shares his story of perseverance and urges others to stay focused, set goals, and keep moving forward despite setbacks.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA / ACCESS Newswire / March 24, 2026 / Builder and property developer Mark Ensom is encouraging people in construction and business to prioritize resilience, long-term thinking, and personal goal-setting as the industry continues to face economic pressures and shifting market conditions.
Drawing on decades of experience across construction, development, and property projects, Ensom says persistence and discipline are essential qualities for anyone working in the sector.
"Construction has always been an industry that rewards people who show up every day and keep moving forward," Ensom says. "If you work hard and treat people fairly, opportunities tend to follow."
Ensom qualified as a builder at the age of 19 and began his career overseas, running a construction business in London before later operating a trim carpentry company in Aspen, Colorado. After returning to New Zealand, he spent roughly 25 years developing a wide range of projects including commercial buildings, villa renovations, affordable housing developments, luxury homes, and accommodation assets.
Through these experiences, Ensom says he has seen how perseverance and adaptability shape long-term success in construction and development.
"I'm a builder by trade first," he explains. "I like understanding how things are actually built and being involved in the process from the ground up."
Construction Industry Challenges Highlight Need for Resilience
Ensom's message comes at a time when many builders and developers are navigating uncertainty in the global construction sector.
According to the Global Construction Perspectives and Oxford Economics Global Construction 2030 report, the construction industry is expected to reach $15 trillion in annual output by 2030, making it one of the largest industries in the world. Yet the sector is also highly cyclical and sensitive to economic changes.
Industry data from the International Labour Organization shows that construction employs more than 220 million people worldwide, representing roughly 7 percent of global employment. However, market fluctuations, project financing challenges, and economic downturns can create significant pressure for businesses and workers alike.
Ensom has experienced those challenges firsthand.
During the global financial crisis, the construction and property sectors faced widespread disruption. Like many in the industry, Ensom encountered major setbacks.
"I went bankrupt and had to work extremely hard to salvage the position," he says. "But the lesson I took from that time was simple. Keep pushing forward and never give up."
He believes the experience reinforced the importance of humility and persistence.
"Work hard, be fair with people, and stay humble," Ensom says. "Those values matter in construction and in life."
Setting Goals and Staying Focused
Today, Ensom encourages professionals in construction and related industries to stay focused on long-term goals rather than short-term setbacks.
Each year, he begins by setting clear objectives.
"I make goals at the beginning of every year," he says. "It helps keep things focused and keeps you moving forward."
Beyond professional goals, Ensom says maintaining balance is equally important. He stays active through gym sessions, running clubs, skiing, and competing in enduro motorbike events.
"I try to keep a good balance," he says. "Work is important, but staying healthy and active matters too."
Family also plays a central role in his motivation.
"A big driver for me is achieving for my young children," Ensom says. "That keeps everything in perspective."
Encouraging Others to Keep Moving Forward
Ensom believes the lessons learned in construction apply well beyond the building industry.
"Everyone faces challenges at some point," he says. "What matters is how you respond. Keep pushing forward, stay humble, and keep working toward your goals."
He encourages people to take simple steps that build momentum over time.
"You don't need to solve everything at once," Ensom says. "Start by setting clear goals, focus on the work in front of you, and treat people well. Those habits add up."
Call to Action
Ensom encourages individuals to reflect on their own goals and take small steps toward them.
Set clear objectives for the year ahead. Stay active and maintain balance outside of work. Most importantly, continue moving forward even when challenges arise.
"Progress comes from persistence," Ensom says. "If you keep showing up and doing the work, things start to move in the right direction."
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Mark Ensom
Mark Ensom is a builder and property developer based in Sydney, Australia. He qualified as a builder at 19 and has worked internationally, including operating construction businesses in London and Aspen, Colorado. Over the past several decades he has been involved in a wide range of construction and development projects, including commercial buildings, residential developments, villa renovations, and accommodation assets. Ensom is known for his practical, hands-on approach to construction and his focus on resilience, hard work, and long-term goals.
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SOURCE: Mark Ensom - Construction, Development and Property Projects
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