When I encounter the withholding of information or praise it always makes me feel uncomfortable. Particularly if I am the one contemplating not providing the information or encouragement.  

Withholding things, in general, may seem powerful at the moment, but it is my belief that it is a sign of weakness.  A sign that one is unable to communicate effectively,  forgive, and/or find a solution to the problem.  Sometimes withholding information is a sign of avoidance and or negative use of power.   

It seems as though I encounter different types of withholding on a daily basis.  Some days it might be related to family, friends, and even business.  Often it is information that if shared, would have been helpful to all involved. 

Withholding information is often due to our busy daily schedules.  I rarely forget to tell my children what they don’t do.  What I love is when I see an opportunity to appreciate what they have done.   This morning both girls were in the car, I picked up my backpack and all the lunch bags were off the table, the dog was in the house and the back door was shut.  I walked into the garage and the door was in the process of opening.  I got in the car and said, “Whoever brought in the dog, closed the door, and opened the garage, THANK YOU, it did not go unnoticed!”    

I don’t typically consider someone who withholds information a strong leader.  There will always be things that we cannot talk about because we are committed to staying silent about the issue. However, there are plenty of times that we withhold information willingly as a power-play. I am not writing about the times when we have no choice, but the times when we do have a choice and we make a decision that is based on power not a decision of fairness, authenticity, and what’s right.

Whenever I have a feeling or thought about withholding information or withholding something from people on my team, my friends, or my family, I know that I have to figure out how to change my perspective and change the way I manage my life.  I reach out in faith that I will be guided and led to a resolution of managing the conflict, approaching the problem in a positive way, and discussing the issues with those involved.  To me, withholding is not a sign of strength, but a sign of weakness.

Click here to stay connected.