When’s the right time to stay quiet?

Most people don't understand the subtle art of keeping quiet and paying attention to what the other person is saying. Many people are just waiting to start talking. Mark Twainspoke some wise words. Have you ever regretted something that you said? Or has there ever been a time where you should have spoken up, but in the heat of the moment, you didn't? If you feel like you’ve been careless and unsure with the words you say, it’s time to start learning when it's the right time to speak up, and when it’s a good idea to stay silent to avoid unnecessary conflict.

Staying silent can be just as powerful as talking. Sometimes saying nothing can show more of your character than speaking about your grievances.With the internet and social media, more and more people are speaking on subjects that they have no expertise in.

Here are a few tips when it’s best to stay quiet

Don’t gossip , especially when you don’t know the facts. Don’t engage and get yourself wrapped up in false statements and in stories you aren’t sure of. Avoid unnecessary comments and speak up only when you are certain about it. Otherwise, stay silent and listen.

Keep your love life to yourself. Think about what your partner would feel if you would be asked very personal or intimate questions. Your partner would probably feel just as uncomfortable and awkward as you would in that situation. You wouldn’t even want to talk about it; it’s private. Respect your relationship by avoiding personal questions asked by random people. Open up and share your personal problems only to people you trust 100%.

When someone makes a mistake, address it once. Once you have addressed the situation, let it lie. They probably already know they did wrong; there’s no need to remind them again and again.

Don’t brag. All of us excel at some sort of talent or skill, but it isn’t necessary to bang on about it to every single person. You will sound boastful, irritating and you’ll lose everyone’s focus, and you may become the butt of peoples jokes. There are plenty of other opportunities for you to talk about what you’re good at when the conversation calls for it, so save that thought for later.

When you don’t know what they’re talking about, listen and learn. Maybe even tell them you aren’t familiar with the topic. While it might hurt your ego, telling them you’re unaware can sometimes appeal positively to others, as it means you’re curious about the topic discussed. Listeningabout something you don’t know is way better than trying to sound as if you know it.

Give them time to say their piece, and then have your turn . Arguments often end up with both sides saying words to each other simultaneously, and then saying regretful things later. Calm down, take a deep breath, and think about what you’re going to say. Whether you’re right or wrong, you want to get your message across without making it sound hurtful, and you want him/her to properly understand what you’re trying to say, and vice versa.