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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To not talk about my personal life, even if people think I’m cold or secretive?

281 replies

TheTaupeMoose · 05/12/2025 20:26

I’m a cautious person by nature. I don’t overshare and I rarely talk about my personal life, especially in new environments. It’s not because I’m hiding anything or being rude, I just like to keep certain things private until (or unless) I really trust someone.

But I’ve noticed people get weird about it. They’ll push for details, joke that I’m “mysterious” or “guarded” or even act like I’m being standoffish. Some will open up to me and seem annoyed that I don’t do the same in return.

AIBU to think I shouldn’t have to talk about my personal life just to make others comfortable? Being cautious isn’t a crime.

OP posts:
HoneyParsnipSoup · 05/12/2025 20:32

What details are they asking for? Some general details are fine to ask as part of conversation and others aren’t, so I can’t judge until you give some examples.

ICouldHaveCheckedFirst · 05/12/2025 20:32

You do you.
I can relate.
My boss once tried (hamfistedly) to "mediate" between me and one of my staff to improve relations. During the session, she complained that I was "too secretive". I failed to understand what her issue was.

It's other people's issue. You don't have to change.

user1471453601 · 05/12/2025 20:31

It's your choice, absolutely, to talk of not talk about your life. You do what you wish.

Some people find it odd. That's their choice.

PollyBell · 05/12/2025 20:31

But if you think it is fine then why would it matter what others think?

TheMorgenmuffel · 05/12/2025 20:29

You dont owe anyone your information and they are free to view you however they choose

Randomlygeneratedname · 05/12/2025 20:28

What level are we talking here? Do you not tell people things like it you have kids / what you did at the weekend sort of stuff or things about illnesses/finances/issues at home sort of stuff?