Being outspoken isn’t always helpful. As a child I wasn’t so much outspoken, rather angry. I didn’t have an opinion, unless I was asked a question, then I'd answer. But being outspoken and having an opinion isn’t always the best way. Instead we should be reticent in our thinking.
Be Diplomatic
Rather be cautious, diplomatic, sensible and gracious. Be informed about the subject. It’s not so much what’s said but how we react or display our feelings, through being outspoken.
How we react is for us to control, but when you’re angry it’s difficult to see that you are. When someone pushes your buttons, when someone has control over your decisions, it’s difficult not to be outspoken.
Words are Powerful: Be Careful With your Words
No matter how things should be, your power of suggestions, your response and reactions can trump the facts. Words are powerful and those can either draw you nearer to people, or can alienate you instead. Others will focus on your outspoken words and may even put a negative spin on what’s been said.
Not everyone is happy for someone to be outspoken. Although being retiring and introverted doesn’t help or work either, there is always a balance to be had.
As you say we can be outspoken without being obnoxious about it. We can be self confident and speak our mind with honesty and integrity.
Respect and compromise are equally important qualities in our relationships too, but an awareness of how our behaviour affects others is vital.
Thanks. You're absolutely spot on. It's not for us to say what we think or have an opinion, it's up to us to engage and decide if what we're saying is what the person wants from us.
Not everyone is invited 'to the party.' It is important we understand our place and where we fit into other people's lives.