Coaching Corner: Are you open to learning?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth
Years ago, during my first experience in my coaching apprenticeship, there was a conversation I had with another apprentice in which she expressed that she did not feel I was open to learning. What!!!! I was so incredibly taken aback with this statement, thinking I had flown to California and was taking this time to learn -- duh! My feelings were hurt and I became inwardly defensive but outwardly quiet. It wasn't until many months later that the reality of her words moved through me, bringing a new and uncomfortable awareness. I realized that I was, indeed, open to learning the words and information that were being presented. I was not, however, open to new awareness and learning about myself. My reactions to her statement were indeed proof of that -- rather than being open to why she might be saying this to me, I shut down. It was one of the biggest learning experiences of my life - thank you Diana!!!!
Today I want you to think about how you react to events and conversations that arise which may not be particularly comfortable. Do you physically leave, or mentally check out? Do you become argumentative? Or, do you go silent, with righteous indignation? Come on -- we have all done at least one of these at times, its just part of life and growth.
The more open to learning you are, the more you will be able to receive feedback and have an awareness of what you need to be getting from any experience. Here's the thing -- in each experience, there is always something to be learned, even if that learning is more clarity about what you want! Getting curious about the situation is a good clue that you are on the right track -- “hmmm, I wonder why this type of situation continues to show up in my life,†as an example. Or, “what can I learn from this?†Utilize your body as well, having an open posture rather than a closed and constricted one.
Pay attention to your thoughts and words around something happening “to you." Little to no forward movement can be made from this position. When you find yourself here, it will be a good clue that openness is not happening. Being open to learning will bring you to a more authentically confident place in your life. Being in control of you (not others) will allow you to experience freedom and ease rather than strife and judgement!
Are you open to giving it a try? Go for it!!!
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.
