Under-sharing
Under-sharing describes the act or practice of providing less information, resources, or support than is expected, appropriate, or necessary. It often manifests as a reluctance or unwillingness to fully disclose details, contribute equally, or participate actively in collaborative endeavors. This behavior can stem from various factors, including insecurity, mistrust, a desire for control, fear of vulnerability, or a lack of awareness regarding the recipient's needs. Consequences include strained relationships, missed opportunities for collaboration, and a diminished sense of community or shared responsibility.
Under-sharing meaning with examples
- During the project meeting, Mark consistently provided minimal updates, practicing Under-sharing of critical progress details. This secrecy created uncertainty, as team members struggled to gauge the project’s trajectory. Without open communication, the team missed opportunities for collaborative problem-solving. The team felt unsupported.
- Sarah avoided sharing her concerns with her therapist, practicing Under-sharing regarding her emotional well-being. Consequently, her treatment remained stagnant, because the therapist was unaware of her underlying issues. The lack of vulnerability created a barrier to healing. She felt isolated.
- The company’s culture encouraged information silos, resulting in Under-sharing across departments. Important data necessary for strategic planning was withheld, creating inefficiencies. This fragmented knowledge base hindered the company's overall performance and hampered innovation efforts. Everyone suffered.
- John, uncomfortable with open financial discussions, was engaged in Under-sharing with his partner about their income and expenses. This secrecy created mistrust, fueled arguments, and undermined their ability to make informed joint financial decisions. It severely damaged their relationship.
