Are you a blabber-mouth? And do you often land in trouble because of it? Well, here are some ways to help you become a trustworthy friend — and a good keeper of secrets.
Everybody has secrets. And nobody likes people who can't be trusted with a secret. So, if you are not privy to the 'secrets' in your family and friends' circle, that's probably because you can't be trusted. Well, don't lose heart. Here are some tips to turn more 'trustworthy'.
Be discreet
Be sensible. For example, if you know that your friend's boyfriend is cheating on her, the right thing to do is tell her. But before you go marching to expose her lover, gently broach the subject — maybe she's already suspecting something's amiss. If yes, tell her the truth, but don't exaggerate. Also, see if your friend can handle it. Sometimes, people prefer not knowing the truth because it's too painful.
Check the timeline
Clarify how long a secret has to be kept. Whether it's a few days, weeks, months, or years, never divulge secrets until the time is right. There are also secrets that you may have to take to your grave. It's important to categorise secrets.
Don't hint that you know one
It's tempting to show off that you know something most others don't. But giving into this temptation is the first step towards letting the cat out of the bag. That's because once people know that you're hiding something, they will tryvarious tricks to wriggle it out of you.
Change the topic
If you're among a group of people, who are discussing matters related to the secret you know, it's best not to participate in it. Keep mum. And the moment you feel uneasy, change the topic.
Write it down
Writing serves as a catharsis. When you're feeling burdened with a secret and are tempted to blurt it out, write it down in your diary/journal. If you are afraid someone will read your diary, write on a piece of paper and shred it later.
Too much to handle
If you feel you will not be able to handle the magnitude of a particular information, refuse to hear it. Spare yourself the emotional burden — and the inevitable guilt later — of betraying someone's trust.
