teenager is not what happens in the classroom but what happens on the school yard - the criticism and the ridicule, the gossip and rumors. It is so easy to get caught up in the world of gossip and lurid tales, especially in school. Everyone else is telling tales of the latest juicy scandal and it is easy to agree as a means to feel accepted and fit in. For many teenagers this is a way to socialize, connect to others and feel like they are part of the "in" crowd.But words have power and what we speak of to our friends and casual acquaintances reflects on who we are as people. Have you ever been in a conversation where a friend starts badmouthing another friend and wondered what happens when you are not around? Does that person speak poorly of you when your back is turned?
Perhaps that is the same impression you are leaving on others when you speak badly or carry forward gossip. And the thing about gossip is that when no one speaks it out loud, it tends to quietly go away.
So the next time a juicy tidbit of gossip comes your way, take a moment to contemplate the damage and hurt it could cause to another person. Reflect on how sharing it could make you look bad in the eyes of others and damage the hard-won credibility and trust you have worked to earn from your friends, colleagues and family. Choose to stop the gossip in it's tracks.
Let the trail end with you.
You may be surprised by how refreshing it can be to create a gossip free environment around yourself and others might wonder why they feel so much better after having a conversation with you.
