Gossip destroys. It shatters reputations, undermines trust and leaves deep emotional wounds.
But here’s the problem with gossip – we usually aren’t aware that we’re doing it. Sure, we say unflattering things about people. Sure, we wouldn’t say these things if they were there. But when you and I do this, we don’t call it gossip. Do you know what you call it?
- Venting. You’re just frustrated and you need a harmless way to let off steam.
- Or maybe you’re just processing. You’re not sure what to do about someone so you need to talk it through with someone.
- Or maybe you’re just concerned. Someone is struggling and you want to know how you can help them.
Here’s a question for you: When does talking about someone cross the line into gossip? It’s really hard to say.
- Are you gossiping when you complain about your boss to your spouse?
- Are you gossiping when the person you’re talking to doesn’t know the person you’re talking about?
- Are you gossiping when you talk about someone you’re trying to help
What is gossip?
How do you know if you’re gossiping?
What do you do if someone gossips to you?
