The way someone controls their mouth says a lot about them. Some say whatever comes to mind, regardless of whether it’s appropriate or helpful. Others are the opposite, and never say anything. Both extremes can lead to problems. Rather, knowing when to speak up and when to be silent is the ideal.

But even more important than knowing what to say and when to say it, is actually doing so. Depending on the situation, maintaining firm control over what and how we speak can be quite the challenge. But it’s also a mark of maturity.