When Silence Speaks Louder Than Words

When Silence Speaks Louder Than Words

There aren’t many times I’ll say this, but I agree with Phil Gould on this one. Sometimes, especially when it comes to mental and emotional health, it’s better to say less. Or say nothing at all.

We’ve all been there, caught in a situation where holding back is the wisest move.

Whether you're managing a team, navigating personal relationships, or facing challenging decisions, knowing when to keep your cards close to your chest can elevate your impact, relationships, and performance.

Take Gus’s recent situation as an example.

As the general manager of football at the Bulldogs, he’s faced with sensitive issues where discretion is key. People’s lives and livelihoods are involved, and sometimes, not everything needs to be made public.

While it’s easy to criticise, the reality is, silence in the right moments can protect relationships and preserve integrity.

This is something I emphasise in my coaching as well. One of the key things I work on with my clients is prioritising what truly matters to them, and that often means not explaining or justifying their actions to others.

You don’t owe anyone an explanation for doing what’s best for you or those you care about. Not everything needs to be shared, and not every decision needs to be defended. The strength lies in trusting your instincts, holding your ground, and staying focused on what’s important.

In both your personal and professional life, think about the times when you’ve chosen not to explain yourself, especially when it’s about protecting relationships, your own well-being, or your values. That’s the power of restraint.

Sometimes, silence is the most powerful statement you can make.

So, the next time you're feeling pressured to justify your decisions or actions, remember: you don’t need to explain yourself to anyone. Focus on what matters, and trust that doing what's best for you is enough.