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The Power of Discretion: Don't Volunteer Information Unnecessarily

 



Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga 




Life is a journey of resilience, and each person faces unique challenges and struggles. While it’s natural to seek support and guidance, it’s essential to keep certain information to yourself. Sharing unnecessary details can lead to interception, discouragement, and even sabotage.


Why Keep Information to Yourself?


Regardless of the size of your endeavors, discretion is crucial. Sharing too much information can:


1. Make you vulnerable: Exposing your plans, struggles, or weaknesses can make you vulnerable to criticism, ridicule, or exploitation. No one lives for you and it’s not easy for any to believe you.

2. Invite unwanted opinions: Unsolicited advice or opinions can be damaging, especially if they’re negative or uninformed. This will cast doubt to your plans as you unnecessarily compare your plans and proffered opinions.

3. Create unrealistic expectations: Sharing too much information can create unrealistic expectations or pressure to perform. How some people may cheer you up will be away to take out your steam whilst it’s still hot and blow it into cold air.

4. Undermine your authority: Revealing too much about your struggles or doubts can erode confidence in your leadership or abilities. Struggling is associated with incapacities and your authority is undermined.


What Drives Us to Share Unsolicited Information?


Despite the risks, many people share unnecessary information due to various motivations, including:


1. Compensatory behavior: Some individuals share information to seek validation, attention, or sympathy.

2. Ignorance to damage: Many people underestimate the potential harm that can come from sharing sensitive information. How the next person uses information about you is outside your control.

3. Lack of self-validation: Some individuals rely on external validation to feel confident or worthy. Self pride should grow even with the smallest gains in your court.

4. Companionship: Sharing information can be a way to bond with others or feel part of a group. Disadvantage about a group is that leadership is dynamic.

5. External influence: Social media, peer pressure, or cultural norms can encourage people to share more information than they should. There are some people who monitor your progress for the reason sabotaging you. 


The Importance of Self-Awareness and Discretion


To maintain healthy relationships, protect your interests, and preserve your integrity, it’s essential to be mindful of what you share and with whom. Practice self-awareness, and ask yourself:


- What are my motivations for sharing this information?

- Who benefits from this information?

- What are the potential risks or consequences of sharing this information?


By being more discerning about what you share, you’ll maintain control over your narrative, protect your interests, and cultivate healthier relationships.


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