The Transparency Check-In

A Micro-Framework for Honest, Clear, and Courageous Leadership

In leadership, “I’m always transparent” sounds noble. But is it always true?
Even the most well-intentioned leaders hold things back – not out of malice, but out of fear, discomfort, or uncertainty.

That’s why real integrity doesn’t come from always being transparent.
It comes from consistently checking in with yourself and course-correcting when you’re not.

Use this 3-question self-check when you’re unsure if you’re being fully transparent:

🔍 What am I holding back right now?

Get specific. Is it:

• A piece of feedback?
• A concern about direction?
• A personal opinion?
• Critical information?

Naming it is the first step. Avoid vague answers like “I don’t know.” Dig deeper.

🤔 Why am I holding it back?

Be radically honest here:

• Is it fear of confrontation?
• Worry about being disliked?
• Uncertainty about timing?
• Discomfort with how it might be received?

Understanding the why helps you separate emotional hesitation from strategic delay.

🌱 What would it look like to be 10% more transparent in this moment?

You don’t have to overshare.
Transparency isn’t about dumping everything – it’s about moving one step closer to clarity.

Ask yourself:

• “What small truth can I share that would bring more alignment?”
• “What question can I ask that would make this more honest?”

Tiny moves toward openness often create the biggest shifts in trust.

🧠 Where to Use This

• During tough 1:1s
• In team retros and debriefs
• While managing up
• In stakeholder strategy calls
• Before delivering hard feedback

Transparency builds trust – but it also takes courage. This framework makes that courage a habit.

📥 Downloadable Version

Want this as a printable or fillable worksheet?