Plato

Opinion is really the lowest form of human knowledge. It requires no accountability, no understanding. 

Ok, I admit it. I am opinionated, and it has been a lifelong lesson to learn to keep them to myself. I have opinions on most things and enjoy a lively debate when someone has a differing one; however, what I have come to understand after many of my views falling on deaf ears, is that they are not necessary to express. If asked, sure, I’ll happily engage, but if it is not requested, I keep my mouth shut, for the most part anyway.

I get it. We all have life experiences that we want to share to help our friends and fellow humans, but you know what? It doesn’t matter. Every one of us has the experiences to get through the challenges we are presented with. Those ways may not be how you or I see it as the best way, but let it go. There are many best ways to get from A to Z.

I am that ‘helpful’ friend. It gives me pleasure in assisting ways to be more efficient or do things better. But better is all relative to where we are starting. The process of failing, falling, and getting back up is all a part of growth.

You have to walk before you can run, holds truth. The falling down builds our foundation, strength, and determination. So why do we want to rob our friends and family of this opportunity?

Giving our unsolicited opinions can get us into hot water with friends. So here are areas that our views should stay on mute.

Relationships. Keep quiet, even if you agree. Have empathy and support for what they are going through. But, if you agree and they get back together, well, you may have sacrificed a friendship.

Finances: While I don’t condone spending every last cent and living from paycheck to paycheck, personally, the stress of that would do me in; money is a touchy subject and with lots of trigger points associated with it. Unfortunately, this may have to be learned the hard way unless a good mentor has been asked to lead the way.

Children: We all survived the way we were raised, and if your friends are not raising their kids the way you would, well, you know what? Let it go.

Health and Diet: This is a biggie. The trends of how to eat and exercise have as many variations as there are opinions about them. I know quite a bit on this subject, but once again, shhhhh. Our physical appearance or lack of mobility may be due to many underlying causes, so mums the word unless asked and engaged in a conversation about it.

Discerning the difference between having an unrequested opinion and a healthy conversation need to be acknowledged. Opinions can be packed with judgment, usually with an underlying tone of our way is the best way. However, we can have our points of view and differing opinions, and it is ok, as long as there is an understanding that we are in discussion.

And conversely, not having an opinion or openly expressing it is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it can be evidence of a solid and secure person who doesn’t need to show the world they know everything.

The older I have grown, the more I cherish; I have my opinion, and you have yours,  let’s leave it at that.

If you really want to make an impact, become an activist for the things you’re passionate about and create real change in the world.

~ Michelle Jaqua