Learn how to be transparent with yourself

By Ana Li Cortés

It is sad to admit this, but as human beings, we have forgotten how to be transparent, even with our own selves. We are so afraid to show ourselves just the way we are that we easily fall into self-delusion. We have tried to prove at all costs that we are somebody we are not. Nevertheless, we have to say that, if our internal compass of honesty and truth is not the primary guide that rules our lives, then it may not be possible that we succeed in any other area, particularly in the ever-challenging business world. Until we find out who is really dwelling inside of us, or who we are, with all of our strengths, virtues, potential, weaknesses and faults, we will not be able to reach financial and business success.

But, in general, transparency was not a value that was taught to many of us. Instead, we learned about pretension, about taking for granted that everything was just fine or just wrong. We were taught to forget about our inconvenient facts, to be indifferent to what was really inside or what we wanted, and to only be earnest about those things that helped us reflect a nicer inner image, even when it was not real.

Individual transparency is as important as knowing your name, your birth date, your bank account numbers, etc. Women —and men as well— learn to act according to what is expected from them. Maybe you have always thought that you can actually save money without a problem; nevertheless, for everyone else you are a squanderer who is unable to save one penny. Then, the moment you seriously decide to get your first savings account, you feel ridiculous, hypocrite; and you think that if anyone finds out about it, this person would laugh at you, because in the end, you are a squanderer. This is the tag that has been attached to you; therefore, that is what people expect from you, that you squander instead of saving, because «squandering» is what sets you apart from others.

Being transparent with your own self cannot be optional. It is a MUST, because if you are not, you are simply allowing someone else to live your life. That person is, in effect, an intruder that has leaked into your personality and has made you believe that that there is nothing else left to do, but to live this life in the same way you have done so far. My advice for you in this matter is summarized in the following lines: Bring color to your rainbow, give yourself the chance to love and respect you. God has thoughts of wellness, of greatness and of prosperity for you. Do yourself a favor and shake off your shame and look at you just as you are. Dare once and for all to be transparent with your own self.