Revealing

Every day, we make hundreds of decisions about how much to disclose about ourselves: our fears, concerns, irritations and desires. But we very rarely think about how forthcoming we should be, or why it matters. For over fifteen years, behavioural scientist and Harvard Business School professor Leslie John has been studying the science behind these decisions we make at work and at home, with our spouses, friends, colleagues and even strangers. Her research shows we vastly underestimate the value of oversharing, and its surprisingly powerful effect on our lives. Sharing more freely impacts our relationships, health and happiness; it can increase our immune functioning, reduce depression and improve our overall sense of wellbeing. Likewise, undersharing can deprive us of opportunities to build friendships, gain the trust and support of colleagues and employees and maybe, even, to find a life partner. Our goal should not be to eliminate vulnerability, but harness its power. This book is a roadmap for figuring out how.