1. When your judgment is clouded.
The first moment you should refrain from speaking up is when you are having difficulty thinking clearly. This could be for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you are weary, under the influence, angry, or anxious. It is better to wait a few moments before speaking up in these cases.
If you don’t, you might say something you’ll come to regret later. You can discuss it later if you give your ideas time to evolve and still think the same way. But not when you are emotionally or in other ways constrained.
2. When your words will cause harm
The second instance in which you should refrain from speaking up is when your words are more likely to be harmful than helpful. Sure, there are times when others need to hear the truth, no matter how unpleasant it may be,
but these instances are rare than we realize. Consider whether the words you are about to speak will be beneficial or if you are acting to harm the other person.
3. When your point of view is irrelevant
When your opinion is irrelevant, you should refrain from speaking up. Accepting and admitting it is never easy. Even if our ego is irrelevant, it is critical. When you don’t know enough about a problem, other people are experts,
or your opinion has no bearing on others, it’s often best to remain silent simply because it’s the wisest thing to do. Whoever does not appreciate your words is better off remaining silent.
