Coaching Corner: Does it Spark Joy?
By Master Coach Marilou Butcher Roth
Currently, I am reading the book “the life-changing magic of tidying up” (yes, all lowercase), by Marie Kondo, a very interesting system for clearing and organizing. The system takes you through tasks such as going through your clothes, books, paper, etc., to determine one essential feeling: if each item “sparks joy” for you. I am well into the process and am delighted with the results.
The idea of sparking joy in all areas of our lives is really intriguing to me. Think about activities that you participate in throughout your day, and imagine that you are asking yourself if these items spark joy for you. What? Joy? Dare you even venture into the land of happiness when thinking about your career or relationships? YES! Do it!
As you go through today, check in with yourself to ask if the experience at hand actually sparks joy for you — or are you on autopilot? Tuning in to notice and get curious about each task will assist you in identifying if this is an action that needs to continue. If it doesn’t spark the joy you would like, and you have determined that it still requires tending to, explore your options. Are you the only one who can complete this? If so, is there a way to create more pleasure while engaged in this activity?
Always be on the lookout for ways to bring more joy into your life. Having the awareness and intention to find more joy will change your outlook and your environment! Enjoy!
Marilou Butcher Roth
Marilou Butcher Roth is the owner of The MBR Group, a coaching and training company working primarily with REALTORS who have a desire to work and live from a more inspired place. She is also the Broker/Owner of Group REALTORS in Cincinnati.
Marilou is a member of the Ohio REALTORS Board of Directors and past chairman of the organization’s Communications Committee.
