10 things about yourself you should never tell others (if you want to maintain your reputation)

We all like to be open and honest, but there are some things that are better left unsaid—especially if you want to protect your reputation.

Sharing too much personal information can backfire, making you seem unprofessional, unreliable, or even untrustworthy. And once something is out there, it’s hard to take it back.

That’s why smart people know when to stay quiet. They understand that certain details about their lives should be kept private to avoid unnecessary judgment or misunderstandings.

Here are 10 things you should never tell others if you want to maintain your reputation.

1) Your biggest regrets

Everyone has regrets, but sharing them too openly can change how people see you.

When you reveal your biggest mistakes or things you wish you’d done differently, you risk looking indecisive, careless, or even untrustworthy. People might start questioning your judgment or wondering if you’ll repeat those same mistakes.

Of course, it’s okay to reflect on your past and learn from it. Just be mindful of who you’re sharing with and how much detail you give. Some things are better kept to yourself.

2) How much money you make

Talking about your salary can create unnecessary tension and judgment.

I learned this the hard way when I casually mentioned my raise to a coworker. I was excited and didn’t think much of it, but I could immediately sense a shift in their attitude. They became distant, and later, I heard they were frustrated because they had been working there longer but were making less.

Money is a sensitive topic, and sharing your income can lead to jealousy, resentment, or even awkward comparisons. Whether you make more or less than someone else, it’s usually best to keep that information private.

3) Your political or religious beliefs

Few topics spark heated debates faster than politics and religion.

Studies have shown that when people encounter opinions that strongly oppose their own, their brains react as if they’re facing a physical threat. This is why political and religious discussions so often turn into arguments rather than productive conversations.

Sharing your views might feel like being honest about who you are, but it can also create unnecessary conflict, especially in professional or casual settings. Unless you’re in trusted company where open discussion is welcome, it’s usually best to keep these beliefs to yourself.

4) Negative things you think about others

It’s tempting to vent when someone annoys you, but speaking badly about others can easily backfire.

Gossip has a way of spreading, and you never know who might repeat your words. Even if what you’re saying is true, being the person who constantly criticizes others can make you seem untrustworthy or negative. People might start wondering what you say about them when they’re not around.

If you have an issue with someone, it’s usually best to address it directly or let it go. Saying nothing is almost always better than saying something you’ll regret later.

5) Past mistakes you’re still ashamed of

Everyone has moments they wish they could erase, but bringing them up too often can do more harm than good.

When you share past mistakes, especially ones you still feel ashamed of, people may start to associate you with those failures rather than seeing who you are now. Instead of coming across as self-aware, you might seem insecure or incapable of moving forward.

Learning from your mistakes is important, but that doesn’t mean you need to share them with everyone. Some things are best left in the past.

6) Your deepest insecurities

We all have things we struggle with—doubts about ourselves that linger no matter how much we try to push them away.

But sharing your deepest insecurities with the wrong people can leave you feeling even more vulnerable. Not everyone will handle that information with kindness, and some may even use it against you. Even well-meaning people might start treating you differently, seeing you as less capable or confident than you really are.

You deserve to be surrounded by people who uplift you, not those who feed your self-doubt. Share your struggles with those you truly trust, but don’t let your insecurities define how others see you.

7) Your relationship problems

Every relationship has its ups and downs, but bringing outsiders into your personal struggles can create more problems than it solves.

At first, venting might feel like a relief, but once you share those details, you can’t take them back. Friends and colleagues might start viewing your partner differently, judging your relationship based on a single moment of frustration. And if you and your partner work things out, others may still hold onto what you told them, making things awkward in the long run.

Some conversations are meant to stay between you and the person involved. If you need advice, turn to someone who truly has your best interests at heart—otherwise, it’s better to keep certain struggles private.

8) Your goals and big plans

It might seem like sharing your goals would help keep you accountable, but in many cases, it does the opposite.

Psychologists have found that when you talk about your ambitions, your brain gets a sense of satisfaction just from saying them out loud. This can trick you into feeling like you’ve already made progress, making you less likely to follow through.

Instead of announcing your plans too soon, focus on taking action. Let your results speak for themselves—there’s no need to seek validation before you’ve even started.

9) Favors you’ve done for others

Helping others is important, but constantly reminding people of the favors you’ve done can make it seem like you only help to get something in return.

No one likes feeling like they owe someone. Even if your intentions were good, bringing up past favors can create discomfort and damage relationships. True generosity doesn’t need to be advertised—people remember kindness on their own.

If you help someone, do it because you want to, not because you expect recognition. The most meaningful gestures are the ones given without expectation.

10) Everything you know about yourself

Not everyone needs to know every detail about you.

The more you reveal, the more you open yourself up to judgment, misunderstanding, or even manipulation. Some things are meant to be kept for yourself—not out of dishonesty, but out of self-respect.

You don’t owe everyone full access to your thoughts, experiences, or emotions. The right people will understand you without needing to know everything.