The Secret Life Of Secrets: How Our Inner Worlds Shape Well-being, Relationships, and Who We Are

Psychologist Michael Slepian's research shows that we are keeping as many as thirteen secrets at any given time, such as lies we've told, ambitions, addictions, mental health challenges, hidden relationships, and financial struggles. The burden of secrecy comes from carrying them alone, but it doesn't have to be. The Secret Life of Secrets sheds fascinating new light on questions like when should we confess and to whom, and offers science-based strategies that make them easier to live with.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

If you've ever pondered the reasons behind our tendency to keep secrets and the driving forces that compel us to share them, your search ends here. Adam Grant, the acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author of "Think Again," delves into the intricate realm of secrecy, offering an enlightening exploration of why we choose to conceal certain information, how to comprehend and navigate these secrets effectively, and when (and how) it's appropriate to bring them to the light.

According to psychologist Michael Slepian's research, which involved over 50,000 participants from diverse corners of the globe, we typically harbor as many as thirteen secrets at any given time. These secrets often revolve around lies we've told, aspirations we've harbored, addictions we struggle with, mental health challenges we face, hidden relationships, and financial struggles. The weight of our secrets can be substantial, yet the burden of secrecy rarely arises from the effort required to keep them hidden. Rather, it stems from the isolation and loneliness that come with carrying these secrets alone. Whether our motivation is to protect our reputation, safeguard a relationship, shield a loved one's feelings, or pursue personal or professional goals, one thing becomes evident: withholding certain aspects of our inner world can be a lonely and isolating experience.

However, there is hope. "The Secret Life of Secrets" is a captivating and insightful book that sheds fresh light on one of the most fundamental yet often misunderstood aspects of human behavior. It delves into questions such as when children develop the cognitive capacity for secrecy, whether all secrets carry the same mental burden, how we can reconcile our secrets with our innate human desires for connection, understanding, and recognition, and when it's appropriate to confess and to whom. Moreover, this book unveils surprising revelations about the pervasive nature of secrets, offering valuable insights into how they permeate various aspects of our lives.

Drawing on over a decade of original research, "The Secret Life of Secrets" provides a comprehensive and compelling exploration of the world of secrecy. It offers valuable tools and strategies for managing and navigating secrets, helping us to navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships, personal growth, and professional success. Whether you're seeking to better understand yourself and your motivations or looking to enhance your communication and relationships, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the hidden depths of human behavior.

Weight: 206g
Dimension: 126 x 198 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472145161