16 Oct Discretion – a little thoughtfulness
What is discretion?
The dictionary says that discretion has the power or right to decide or act according to your own judgment. It is about being discreet, which is being mindful of privacy and staying silent about situations which may be delicate. This may concern yourself as well as others.
Thinking of others
Discretion takes a little thoughtfulness and thinking of how someone else would like to be treated. When people share personal information with you, remember they are sharing with you, not the world. People share with people who they believe are worthy of their trust so be mindful of the trust they placed in you and feel honoured because they did. Think about what you would like to happen if you were in the same situation. Everyone is different, though, and while some people might be comfortable to share their experiences with the world, others are not. Take into consideration how you think they want to be treated that might be different from you.
Spirit of trust
Discretion is required in many situations throughout your life. For example, you may observe something which might be embarrassing to another person. Helping someone out of an awkward situation in a kind, caring manner opposed to a loud, letting everyone in the room know about it way, is a way of practising discretion. Ask first before you assume someone doesn’t mind you sharing their personal details or information.
Everyone is different
Tact is required when situations take place that might place someone in a position, that they might find challenging. We all deal with things differently. Some of us laugh at ourselves, some of us cringe at our own behaviour, and some of us just deal with things matter-of-factly. Some people are open books and share a lot of personal information about themselves. Some people are more reserved. There is no right or wrong, it is just different.
The balance of discretion
Sometimes you will decide to trust someone and later discover they did not treat your personal information with caution. That becomes a lesson about that person, not the rest of the world. Keeping someone’s else’s secret is admirable – unless it is a secret that means they have, or could, hurt themselves or someone else. Some people have jobs that require ‘mandatory reporting’ on situations where people place themselves or others at harm.
For example, domestic violence and other sorts of abuse do not officially require reporting. Some people decide it is none of their business, and do nothing. Others believe that these behaviours will continue to happen until we, as a community, take the necessary steps and stand up, together and let it be known that it is not OK.
Treat everyone with kindness, educate them when you can, encourage them as needed and report the facts without placing judgement and, if possible, regarding all parties involved – be kind, be kind, be kind.
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