North Columbus News

Earlier this week, Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth introduced the concept of "self-transparency" during a conversation with a coaching client. She noted that the term was new to her, stating, "It cracks me up when this happens, as it is not a phrase that I have ever used before. After I spoke the phrase, I actually wrote it down so I wouldn't forget what I said."

Roth discussed how society often talks about transparency in organizations and governments but rarely considers personal transparency. She asked, "How transparent are we being with ourselves, though? How much do we find ourselves engaged in blame or judgment without even the slightest hint of going within to ask what we are truly feeling, or how we may have brought a situation into our experience?"

She emphasized that self-reflection starts with individuals. According to Roth, focusing solely on external factors can prevent people from learning important lessons and fully experiencing life. She explained that developing self-transparency requires practice and commitment.

Roth suggested a simple exercise for readers: "Begin with this simple exercise - right where you are, notice something around you. Don't go deep on this; keep it simple." She shared her own example of noticing an object on her desk and encouraged others to do the same before turning their attention inward to observe their internal state.

"This exercise is designed to help you develop the habit of shifting your attention between external events and your inner self, thereby increasing the range and degree of information you can access," Roth said.

She added that developing this skill set allows individuals to better understand themselves and their motivations: "Tuning in brings you to deeper questions of 'what do I really want' and 'how is this particular pattern serving me.'"

Roth recommended keeping reminders handy to prompt regular self-reflection. "Please remember to keep it simple and have fun!!" she concluded.

Marilou Butcher Roth is the owner of The MBR Group, which provides coaching and training primarily for REALTORS interested in working from a more inspired place. She also serves as Broker/Owner of Group REALTORS in Cincinnati. Roth is a member of the Ohio REALTORS Board of Directors and has previously chaired its Communications Committee.