10 things about yourself you should never reveal publicly (if you want to maintain your reputation)

There’s a fine line between sharing and oversharing, especially when it comes to our personal lives.

This line is even more crucial when we consider our public persona, because once certain things are out there, they can’t be taken back.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m all for authenticity and transparency. But there are some things that, if revealed publicly, might harm your reputation more than you’d want.

In this article, I’ll share with you 10 things about yourself you should never reveal publicly. Consider them the unwritten rules of personal PR if you will.

Let’s get started.

1) Personal grievances

We all have our ups and downs in life, and it’s only natural to feel frustrated or upset sometimes.

But when it comes to maintaining a reputable image, airing your personal grievances publicly is a big no-no.

This doesn’t mean you should bottle up your feelings or hard experiences. Privately sharing with friends, family or a counselor is an important part of processing our experiences.

But publicly venting about personal issues can be perceived as unprofessional and might damage your reputation. So next time you feel the urge to share your frustrations about your ex, your boss or your nosy neighbor on social media, take a moment to reconsider.

Once something is out there in public, it can’t be taken back. So it’s best to keep the personal grievances to yourself or within your close circle.

2) Your financial situation

Let me share an experience I had a few years back.

I once casually mentioned at a networking event that I was having a bit of a tough time financially. I didn’t think much of it then, but later on, I noticed some people started treating me differently. Some stopped inviting me to events or dinners they used to, perhaps thinking I couldn’t afford it.

It was then that I understood how sensitive the topic of money can be and how it can change people’s perceptions about you. Whether you’re doing really well or struggling, your financial situation is something best kept private.

Sharing too much about your finances can lead to unwarranted assumptions and judgments that can impact your reputation.

3) Negative opinions about your job

It’s tempting to vent about a bad day at work or a difficult boss on social media. However, this is one of those areas where discretion is vital.

Did you know that according to a CareerBuilder survey, 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates before hiring? This means your publically expressed dissatisfaction about your job can be seen by future employers.

Expressing negative opinions about your job or colleagues can come across as unprofessional and may cast doubts on your integrity and loyalty. Therefore, it’s wise to keep such thoughts private for the sake of your current and future reputation.

4) Deep-seated fears and insecurities

We all have our fears and insecurities. They’re a part of being human. While it’s healthy to acknowledge them and seek help when needed, revealing them publicly might not always be in your best interest.

Publicly sharing your deep-seated fears or insecurities can, unfortunately, make you a target for those who may not have your best interest at heart. It can also create a perception of vulnerability that may impact how others see your capabilities.

It’s perfectly okay to have fears and insecurities. But choose wisely who you share them with to maintain your reputation and personal integrity.

5) Intimate details

Sharing intimate details about your personal life is a slippery slope. While it can sometimes help form deeper connections with people, it may also lead to discomfort and awkwardness.

Publicly revealing intimate details can blur professional boundaries and might lead to judgements or misconceptions about you. It’s important to remember that not everyone needs to know everything about your personal life.

Consider keeping intimate details private – it helps maintain respect and the right kind of interest in you.

6) Your past mistakes

We’ve all made mistakes, taken wrong turns, or made bad decisions. It’s part of our journey, part of our growth.

However, revealing your past mistakes publicly isn’t always advisable. Some might judge you solely based on these past errors, without considering the person you’ve become or the lessons you’ve learned.

We should never be ashamed of our past, as it has shaped us into who we are today. But it’s worth remembering that not everyone will see your past through a compassionate lens.

Be proud of the progress you’ve made and the person you’ve become, but consider keeping your past mistakes to yourself to protect your reputation.

7) Family disputes

Growing up, my family wasn’t the picture-perfect type you see in movies. We had our fair share of disagreements and disputes.

Sharing these familial tensions publicly, however, never seemed like the right thing to do. Personal family matters can be complicated and sensitive, often misunderstood when viewed from the outside.

Publicly airing family disputes can be damaging to not only your reputation but also the relationships within your family. It’s best to resolve these matters privately, keeping your family’s dignity intact.

8) Your good deeds

Helping others and doing good deeds is a wonderful thing. It speaks volumes about your character. However, publicly broadcasting every charitable act you undertake can sometimes backfire.

When we share our good deeds publicly, they can often be perceived as self-promotion or a bid for validation rather than genuine kindness. This could inadvertently tarnish the goodwill of the act and your reputation.

While it’s great to do good, consider keeping these gestures as quiet acts of kindness. After all, the most rewarding part should be the act itself, not the recognition that comes from it.

9) Your political beliefs

Politics can be a touchy subject, especially in today’s highly polarized climate. While it’s important to have political opinions and to stand up for what you believe in, sharing these beliefs publicly can sometimes lead to unnecessary conflict.

When people know your political leanings, they might stereotype you or make assumptions about your character based on your political beliefs. This can affect how they interact with you and potentially damage your reputation.

10) Your future plans

It can be exciting to share your future plans and aspirations, especially when you’re really passionate about them. However, disclosing your future plans publicly might not always be the best strategy.

Revealing your plans can lead to unnecessary pressure, unsolicited advice, or even potential sabotage. It’s best to keep your cards close to your chest until you’re ready to reveal them on your terms.

Above all, remember that your future is yours to shape. Keep your plans private until they’re ready for the spotlight.

Final thoughts: The power of discretion

The nuances of building and maintaining a reputation are closely tied to our choices and actions. One such choice is the decision about what to reveal and what to keep private.

Our interactions and public persona reflect a part of who we are, but they don’t need to disclose everything. There’s strength in discretion, in choosing to keep certain aspects of our life private.

Whether it’s our fears, our financial situation, or our future plans, some things are better kept under wraps. By doing so, we allow ourselves the freedom to navigate through life with greater control and autonomy.

As late American author Earl Nightingale once said, “We are all self-made, but only the successful will admit it.” This might be an invitation for us all to reflect on how our public revelations can shape not just how others perceive us, but ultimately, our journey towards success.

So next time you’re about to share something personal, take a moment. Reflect on whether it needs to be public knowledge or if it’s something that can stay within your private world. Your reputation might thank you for it.