Upon turning 40, we’re more inclined to speak truthfully when we’re asked about what we think or feel instead of worrying that we may upset others. That doesn’t mean that we’re intentionally cruel, but more that we feel confident in expressing ourselves honestly. That said, we feel less of a need to express every random thought or feeling that comes to mind. We’ve learned that sometimes, leaving things unspoken is the best course of action—not only so others don’t have ammunition to use against us, but also because being mature and having self-respect matters more than “feeling seen” by those who don’t matter to us.
