10 things you should never reveal about yourself to others, according to psychology

There’s a fine line between being an open book and oversharing.

According to psychology, there are certain things about ourselves that we should keep under wraps. Not because they’re terrible secrets, but because revealing them might not work in our favor.

In this article, I’ll go through 10 pieces of personal information that you should think twice about before sharing. Remember, it’s not about hiding who you are; it’s about understanding the impact of oversharing.

Let’s get started. 

1) Your deepest insecurities

We all have parts of ourselves that we’re sensitive about.

Psychology suggests, however, that it’s not always wise to reveal these insecurities to others. Why?

Because, unfortunately, some people might exploit your vulnerabilities for their own gain. Plus, constantly talking about your insecurities can inadvertently form a negative image of yourself in others’ minds.

It’s okay to not be perfect. We all have flaws and insecurities. But it’s essential to know when and with whom to share them.

Be selective about sharing your deepest insecurities. It’s not being dishonest; it’s about self-preservation and mental well-being.

2) Your past mistakes

We all have a past, and often it’s filled with a mix of achievements and mistakes.

According to psychological insights, revealing past mistakes can sometimes backfire. It’s not about pretending to be flawless. Instead, it’s about understanding how information about past errors can impact others’ perceptions of you.

Let me share a personal example. In my first job out of college, I made a mistake that cost the company a significant client. For years, whenever I met someone new in a professional setting, I felt the need to share this story as an example of how much I’ve learned and grown.

But over time, I realized that instead of showcasing my growth, this story often led people to associate me with that mistake. It was as if they couldn’t see beyond that one error.

I’ve learned to be careful about sharing past mistakes. It’s not about hiding them, but about sharing them in the right context and with the right people. After all, we’re all human, and to err is human!

3) Your financial status

There’s a reason why discussing money is considered taboo in many cultures.

Money, or the lack of it, can influence how people perceive and interact with you. Depending on the context and the person you’re talking to, revealing your financial status can lead to uncomfortable dynamics.

Did you know those who share their income with others are often seen as less likable? It’s a surprising insight, but it makes sense when you think about how money can impact relationships and social interactions.

Whether you’re rolling in the dough or barely scraping by, it might be wise to keep your financial status to yourself. It’s not about being secretive; it’s about maintaining healthy and balanced relationships.

4) Your personal conflicts

We all have disagreements and conflicts in our personal lives. But broadcasting these disagreements to others, especially those not involved, can often lead to more harm than good.

Sharing personal conflicts can create an uncomfortable environment for the listener. It puts them in a tricky position, especially if they know the other person involved in the conflict.

Moreover, it can affect how people perceive you. Constantly discussing your conflicts might make you come across as a negative person, even if that’s not your intention.

Instead, try to resolve your conflicts with the person involved directly. This approach not only fosters better relationships but also ensures that personal matters stay personal.

5) Your medical history

Your health is a deeply personal matter. While it’s important to share relevant medical information with your doctor, it’s not always necessary or appropriate to share it with everyone else.

Disclosing your medical history can sometimes lead to unwanted pity, unsolicited advice, or even discrimination in some cases. Plus, it’s essential to remember that health information is sensitive data that should be handled with care.

Now, this doesn’t mean you should never discuss health matters. If you’re comfortable and believe it could help or inform others, go ahead. But always remember that you have the right to keep your health information private if that’s what feels best for you.

6) Your family problems

Family is at the core of our personal lives. And every family has its own set of challenges and issues.

However, revealing your family problems to others can sometimes lead to unwanted scrutiny or judgement. It can also put those you’re sharing with in an uncomfortable position, especially if they’re not in a position to help or intervene.

Keeping these matters within the family can often be the most respectful and considerate approach. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect; it’s about cherishing the privacy and sanctity of family relationships.

It’s okay to seek external help when needed, but remember, every family has its own journey, and that journey deserves respect and understanding.

7) Your phobias or fears

Be it spiders, heights, or even cucumbers (yes, that’s a real phobia), we all have things that make our hearts race a little faster.

While it can sometimes be therapeutic to share these fears, doing so can also make you an easy target for pranks or teasing. I remember when I innocently told my friends about my fear of clowns. It was all fun and games until my birthday rolled around, and a clown-themed surprise party was waiting for me.

Consider carefully who you share your phobias with – not everyone will handle the information with the sensitivity it deserves. It’s perfectly okay to keep your fears to yourself if that’s what makes you feel safe and comfortable.

8) Your personal accomplishments

It might seem strange, but sometimes, even your successes are better left unsaid.

While it’s perfectly healthy to be proud of your achievements and want to share them, doing so excessively can lead to perceptions of bragging or arrogance. It’s a delicate balance between sharing joy and appearing self-centered.

The key is to share your accomplishments in a way that doesn’t overshadow others or make them feel less accomplished. After all, there’s a time and place for everything, and that includes celebrating your victories.

9) Your future plans

Planning for the future is exciting, and it’s natural to want to share those plans with others. But sometimes, it’s wiser not to.

Disclosing your future plans might open them up to unwarranted scrutiny or advice. Moreover, if those plans change or don’t pan out as you hoped, you might find yourself dealing with unwanted questions or even judgement.

Keeping your cards close to your chest isn’t about being secretive; it’s about giving yourself the peace and space to explore your future without unnecessary pressure or expectations from others.

10) Your personal beliefs

Your beliefs – be they religious, political, or philosophical – are a fundamental part of who you are. However, revealing them, especially if they’re controversial or unconventional, can lead to debates or even conflicts.

While it’s important to stand up for what you believe in, it’s equally important to understand when and with whom to share these beliefs. Doing so can help maintain harmony in your relationships and ensure that your beliefs are respected and not challenged unnecessarily.