Growing up, my parents often used the silent treatment to deal with conflict, leaving me feeling isolated and anxious.
Because of this, I’ve made a conscious effort to do better. But the lessons keep coming.
Recently, I ran into a situation where someone gave me the cold shoulder and refused to talk it out. I had to walk away, but it was hard—it brought back so many memories. People often resort to the silent treatment as a form of punishment because it’s a way to exert control and power over someone else without having to confront the issue directly. It can be a passive-aggressive tactic to make the other person feel guilty or uncertain. While it might give the person using it a sense of temporary control, it’s ultimately damaging and counterproductive.
Of course, there are times when radio silence is good, especially when setting boundaries with a narcissist or dealing with a repeat offender. In these cases, silence can be a form of self-protection and empowerment.
I’ve had my fair share of this lesson, even in the corporate world with a boss who was a sulker. It’s the same toxic pattern, just in a different setting. Instead of fostering a productive environment, it creates confusion and resentment.
And so I keep challenging myself — even when it’s awkward or uncomfortable (and even when I know that I am not the one in the wrong!) How about you? What are you doing and what are you learning and are you committed to this journey of self-development, self-mastery, self-care and self-love too?
I see YOU,
Lee
Lee Mayimele 