Gossip & Mean Girls: What Others Think of Me Is None of My Business ... or Is It? by Holly Budde

Gossip and "mean girls" are real at every age. I long ago adopted the philosophy of "what others think of me is none is none of my business." I still hold that as true. But what if what others are saying about you (or me) is because we have loaned the option by participating?

Have you ever been told nasty gossip about a good friend? My motto has always been, “don’t tell me something to make me judge another based on what you are saying.” That is easier said than done!

Gossip is a fact of life – it’s a stress reliever by definition, and often a bonding tool among the participants. But we have to draw the line! Gossip is also a key form of anxiety. It can cause more harm than good. What do you do with the information you are given? Do you call a friend who would love to know this detail? Do you keep it as secret? How you handle gossip is as much a part of your friendships as you are. I encourage you to play by the "three-rule" next time:

1. Is it true?
2. Is it necessary? (Repeat this, if necessary!)
3. Is there any real benefit?

Gossip comes and goes, real friends don’t, so weigh your options wisely! We should empower each other. If someone's actions cause you to gossip, ask yourself … why?