Words have a price. Are you ready to pay for them? If you feel like you’ve said more than you should have, consider these realities:
Never destroy a relationship you can’t afford to lose
Your friend or co-worker blasts you. It’s tempting to blast back, but don’t. Once those words come out of your mouth, you can’t take them back. Calm yourself down and respond with words you can live with.
If you don’t keep what you say confidential, don’t expect someone else to
You may assume that when you say, “This is confidential,” the person you share that information with will keep it confidential. Except – if you won’t, why should they? If you want something to be kept private, don’t share it.
Don’t tell a story that will create a negative image
When you’ve relaxed with a friend or coworker, have you ever said too much? Admitted that you stole a cute top from a department store? Got intimate with an ex who you swore you wouldn’t? Unless you can count on the person as your friend for life, don’t share anything that might create a negative image of yourself.
Enough is enough
If you’re the lucky individual who your supervisor or friend uses as a sounding board, remember that not everyone wants what they ask for.
“Tell me the truth,” your friend says. Careful – she may want reassurance or a supportive comment more than she wants blunt honesty.
The bottom line? Words have a cost. Decide whether you want to pay for them before you utter them.
