Stop Over-Explaining
Spark #309 - You don’t need a backstory.
I used to over-explain to make others comfortable.
I’d walk people through my big decisions so it made sense to them.
I was looking for their approval.
I wanted to fit in.
I did this when I transferred colleges.
When I quit my MBA.
When I let my hair go silver.
I did it when I sold my yoga studio.
Then when I gave up my home and lived on the road.
At 60, I finally saw it.
Over-explaining was how I stayed safe.
I figured, if it made sense, I could avoid the judgment.
It was exhausting. And stupid.
Then I watched an episode of The Bear.
Sloppy and gruff Cousin Richie walks into a Michelin-starred restaurant and something clicks.
He sharpens up. He starts wearing suits.
People keep telling him he looks great.
And every time, he says the same thing.
I wear suits now.
No long story. Just those four words. Think about it.
I did and here’s where I stand.
I’m done trying to make others comfortable with my choices.
I’m done over-explaining and looking for approval.
Judge me or not. It no longer matters.
I wear suits now.
✨What are you done explaining?





This is so smart. And I do this too - overexplain. I'm taking your lead and wearing a suit too.
I wish I had read this before I sent last night‘s email to my boss!