Yaser El-Waly on the Importance of Discretion

Knowing what to say is a crucial social ability; however, just as crucial is the knowledge of when to speak, about what to speak, and sometimes even when to remain silent. Communication influences one’s perception of others and their relationship with him or her in real life. Discretion, in turn, is an important part of mature communication, as stated by Yaser El-Waly.

Yaser El-Waly on Thinking Before Speaking

Words carry the capacity to influence the situation way after the conversation has ended. An idle remark may create confusion, but a provocative response may become part of the solution in a conflict situation. Yaser El-Waly emphasizes the need to pause for a while before uttering any word, especially if one feels highly emotional about the subject.

Such a pause does not have to be difficult to make. Questioning oneself whether this statement is needed, appropriate, and true will help people understand what kind of communication they should use. This will give them the chance to distinguish an impulsive statement from the considered one.

Thinking before speaking does not necessarily mean that one should be extremely careful while communicating in all situations.

Yaser El-Waly on Protecting Other People's Privacy

Trust is frequently established on the grounds that there is no fear of having your sayings revealed as common knowledge. Yaser El-Waly realises that keeping things private is a crucial step in forming and sustaining a genuine connection.

Your friends might tell you something about themselves and a co-worker might confide a secret in you. Spreading these sayings to other people without their consent could ruin trust even if the intentions are not malicious.

Discretion means knowing that just because you have access to personal information, that doesn’t give you the right to reveal it.

Yaser El-Waly on Avoiding Unnecessary Gossip

Gossip has the potential to circulate fast since everyone is inherently interested in the lives of others. Nevertheless, sharing the unconfirmed information may lead to misunderstanding and negative effects on people’s reputation. It is the view of Yaser El-Waly that there should be a responsible approach when conducting a discussion with people who are not physically present during the discussion.

In such an instance, one should first think about whether it is correct to share the information. This way, any kind of trouble can be avoided.

The discussed attitude should not be interpreted as ignoring the misconduct of someone. It is possible to make a distinction between an appropriate discussion of the problem and its gossiping.

Yaser El-Waly on Knowing When Silence Is Appropriate

Sometimes silence may not necessarily mean that a person agrees, feels uncertain, or is being weak. In certain situations, silence can be a sign of patience as one understands that the conversation does not require an instant reply. This point is emphasized by Yaser El-Waly.

When someone is having an argument, for example, he will realize that he cannot gain anything through such a discussion. Instead, he will take some time off and later have a discussion when he has thought about what he was going to say.

In addition, silence gives others the opportunity to say what they have in mind. One might find out things he or she would have never known because of the absence of interruptions.

Yaser El-Waly on Balancing Honesty With Sensitivity

Discretion should never provide a cover for deceit. Yaser El-Waly inspires individuals to realize that sincerity of communication and courtesy towards others are compatible.

There can be instances where one might have to convey negative information and handle a problematic situation. It is during these times that the way the information is delivered may affect whether the conversation is going to be beneficial or damaging.

The truth need not always hurt. Choosing the proper setting and expressing one’s concerns in a proper manner and without any form of insults may be helpful in this situation.

Yaser El-Waly on Building Trust Through Responsible Communication

Trust builds upon the many interactions when people exhibit reliability, respect, and sound judgment. According to Yaser El-Waly, one of the actions that can contribute to developing these attributes is discretion.

It is clear that people would be much more comfortable if they have to deal with someone who knows how to keep confidence, avoid gossiping, and hold discreet conversations. It might not make any impact, but it is crucial for developing honesty.

It is also important in responsible communication to acknowledge our limits. Sometimes it is better to seek professional help when a situation entails any danger or cannot be kept private.

Yaser El-Waly on Making Every Word Count

In general, discretion implies understanding the fact that communication is not only a way of speaking up. Yaser El-Waly calls upon everyone to think over reasons, circumstances and ways in which the information that he or she gives away might influence someone else.

There are times when complete openness and honesty are required. There are times when it is necessary to listen. In some situations it is better to keep silence till one calms down. Distinguishing all this takes some time.

Being able to live in an epoch of exchanging information without any difficulties, people need to know how to communicate correctly. Analyzing their words, keeping conversations confidential and being silent in some cases might help build good relations.