When I was working as in-house art director, I often got invited to important meetings where the leaders of the company discussed various topics. I still remember this one meeting, where I interjected and shared my opinion on something.
After the meeting, one of the owners of the company pulled me gently aside and asked why I had spoken up. Did the issue truly warrant my input or did I simply want to be heard?
A few years later I read The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene and one of the laws really drove home the point for me.
Always say less than necessary.
It’s often better to listen quietly rather than share every thought that comes to mind. Saying less than necessary can be a sign of self-discipline, but also of wisdom and intelligence.
This is something which took me by surprise back then and I still need to remind myself regularly to say less.