Coaching Corner: What are YOU afraid of?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth
As the scariest of all holidays comes near, it is timely to ask this question. We may not be able to give a clear answer, however, there are ways that we can detect fear that may be showing up as something else. Each of us has a different tolerance for fear as well as different reactions. Today, let's explore the "Four Flags of Fear." These indicators of fear will show up both within us as well as within others. We all have our personal “favorite†of these and having awareness both of ourselves as well as our clients may very well bring you to a smoother interaction. Here we go...
- Fight -- this will most probably not be a physical fight but might show up as defensiveness.
- Flee -- this could be an actual leaving or it could be “I'm done!â€
- Faint -- this presents as confusion or fuzziness.
- Freeze -- this is when someone shuts down entirely -- still body -- no conversation.
Look at these four and see which one is your go to fear flag. Mine is freeze. Its not that I don't ever get defensive or get fuzzy, but my typical go to fear flag is definitely freeze. My husband will be delighted to verify that one! Having the self awareness of how you react when you are afraid will put you way ahead of the general public. And...taking healthy responsibility for that fear will take you even further.
So, have a safe and fun Halloween and remember -- we all get afraid sometimes!!!
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.
