One issue that seems to often crop up with the beautiful souls I work with is over-sharing.
With each relationship we have there is a context to it and a level of emotional intimacy. Oversharing is when we go too far, too fast for that relationship to take. Like telling a new colleague about your family drama. It takes time to build trust and space for growing intimacy to occur.
How do you know if you are over-sharing or just being open and vulnerable?
It can help to look at WHY you are sharing something. Is it to quickly cement a relationship? Is it to fill silence? Is it to gain sympathy? Or are you feeling anxious? Is the other person looking uncomfortable?
These can all be signs you are oversharing.
How to stop oversharing
Understand why you overshare and what your triggers are, so you are better prepared.
Before you share something, ask yourself why you are sharing and check in with how you are feeling. Are there any of the above warning signs?
Consider how your sharing will benefit the other person and yourself and if you don’t see how, reconsider sharing.
Think about what level this relationship is at – is this a stranger, an acquaintance, a friend or bestie? What sorts of things have they shared with you?
Ask for permission to share, particularly if it is something sensitive or deep. Then you will know if the other person is ready and willing to listen.
Remember that in most cases healthy relationships grow in intimacy over time and gradually share more.
What is your experience? Have you ever over-shared and regretted it?
If you would like some further relationship support, reach out and book in a chat with me.