WHY DO WE GOSSIP?

Most people will say that they don’t like gossip. No one wants to have a friend who can’t keep our secrets or respect our privacy, and it can feel just as toxic to listen to gossip about others.

a popular but destructive pastime

Gossip has been around since the beginning of time, and continues to be a popular but destructive pastime and unhealthy pattern of behavior. It's estimated that approximately 80% of time spent in conversation with others is about someone who isn't present.

Unfortunately, this realization is not enough to deter many people from speaking negatively about another. We exchange details on the private lives or behaviors of others; we lean in and spill what we overheard coming from the boss’s office; we repeat the rumor we heard about a friend or family member when we get angry; we judge someone for a choice we didn’t agree with.

ARE WE BEING EQUALLY DISCREET?

Although we are likely to acknowledge we would not want to be judged, gossiped about, or have private information about ourselves shared, many of us are as equally discreet and sensitive concerning others.

So, what exactly compels us to judge others, form misguided observations, and gossip? Research shows that people with high levels of anxiety and insecurity are more prone to gossip. They often project onto others the struggles and fears they’re unable, or unwilling, to allow into their own awareness. Gossip can stem from a temporary or ongoing need to feel superior by disparaging others, a need for attention, feelings of jealousy, envy, anger and/or revenge.

But, are we seeking approval so desperately that we’re willing to throw people under a bus with such frequency and ease?

altering the course

We can heal faster from the aftermath of being a victim of gossip by understanding the behavior of others. We can also alter this damaging course by learning about ourselves and aspiring to change our own patterns of behavior and negative speech, as well.

When we can identify the problem, and realize that real creative power is within us, the words we hear, the words we use, and what we say about other people will change. And, investing the time to acquire insight into the intricacies of human relations and behavior is far more interesting, uplifting, and enlightening than one-dimensional judgments and rumors.

When we understand the problem, we can implement a solution.

we can all contribute to A GREATER GOOD through our speech habits

When we step back and stop pointing fingers at others, we can be a vital positive force and become instrumental in developing ourselves and the people around us for a greater good. Understanding the true nature of gossip will change the dynamic of your friendships, your business relationships, and even the time-tested bonds within your own family.

CARING ABOUT IT WILL CHANGE 'YOU'!

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