Oversharing with people of authority can be a common challenge, but it's essential to maintain appropriate boundaries to protect your privacy and maintain a level of professionalism. Here are some tips to help you stop oversharing:
Awareness: Recognize the problem and understand the consequences of oversharing. Acknowledge that it can potentially harm your personal and professional life.
Set boundaries for yourself: Before engaging in conversations with people of authority, remind yourself of the information you want to keep private. Make a mental note or write it down if necessary.
Pause before speaking: Practice self-control and take a moment before responding to questions or sharing information. Think about whether the information is relevant to the situation and whether it's necessary to share it.
Focus on the purpose of the conversation: Keep the discussion centered on the specific topic at hand. Avoid veering off into personal or unrelated matters.
Limit personal details: When discussing personal matters, be cautious about how much you reveal. Share only what is necessary for the conversation, keeping it professional and relevant.
Practice with a friend or mentor: If you struggle with oversharing, practice conversations with a trusted friend or mentor. They can provide feedback and help you refine your communication style.
Listen actively: Pay attention to the other person's questions and comments. This will help you gauge the appropriate level of information to share and avoid offering unnecessary details.
Be mindful of your emotions: Sometimes, we may overshare because we feel anxious, nervous, or excited. Take note of your emotional state during conversations and use it as a cue to be more mindful of what you're saying.
Avoid discussing sensitive topics: Steer clear of controversial or highly personal topics, especially with people of authority whom you might not have a close relationship with.
Keep conversations balanced: Communication is a two-way street. Encourage the other person to share their thoughts and experiences, allowing for a more balanced exchange of information.
Think about the audience: Consider who you are talking to and what is appropriate to share with them. Different situations and people may require varying levels of disclosure.
Reflect on previous experiences: If you've experienced negative consequences due to oversharing in the past, use those experiences as lessons to inform your future behavior.
Remember, it's essential to build trust and rapport with people of authority, but that doesn't mean revealing every detail of your life. Finding the right balance between openness and privacy is crucial in maintaining a professional and respectful relationship.