One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned—over and over again—is that not everything needs to be said out loud. Leadership, entrepreneurship, and even personal growth require a delicate balance between sharing openly and holding things close.
I used to think that transparency meant saying everything, that being open and honest at all times was the best way to lead. But experience has taught me that wisdom isn’t just about speaking—it’s about listening, discerning, and knowing when to share and when to keep something in development.
Recently, I found myself in a situation where I was excited to share a new idea. I spoke about it freely, assuming that enthusiasm alone would be enough to protect its integrity. But as the conversation unfolded, I realized that not everyone in the room held the same intentions. Some saw opportunity, others saw competition, and a few simply weren’t ready to receive the vision the way I had hoped. That moment reminded me: not every seed is ready to be planted in every soil.
Being open fosters connection, but being discerning protects what’s important. Some ideas need time to grow before they’re exposed to outside elements. Some projects need nurturing before they’re shared. And some conversations require deep listening rather than immediate response.
So, here’s what I’m still learning: transparency and discretion are not opposites—they’re partners in leadership. Knowing when to speak and when to listen is a skill I’m refining every day. And as I continue on this journey, I invite you to reflect on it too.
Where in your life do you need to listen more? What ideas or dreams need a little more time before you share them? And how can you create space for discernment in the way you lead, work, and live?
I’ll be thinking about these questions, and I hope you will too. Because the lessons never stop—and neither do we.
Sincerely,
Mskindness
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