A blog I've guest written for states in the guidelines: "It’s important to strike a balance of having some authority or clear opinion on a subject without acting like we have all the answers."
This is good advice for our personal communications as well - especially in these uncertain and divisive times. Whether we're discussing local politics, global conflicts, the ethics of technology, or the future of the economy, it's helpful to remember that we may not have all the answers.
Let's be clear about a few things:
1. This doesn't mean that you must "stay in your lane" professionally.
It does mean that you show humility and self-awareness. Recognize what you know and what you don't know. You don't need to be a minister to talk about a religion you've practiced for years. You don't need to be a doctor to talk about a medical condition you've lived with. But knowledge from lived experience differs from that of study and formal training. Speak from your vantage point without overselling yourself.
2. This doesn't mean that you need all the facts to form an opinion.
It does mean that you take responsibility for your words. You use discretion based on the nature of your message and the size of your platform. There are things that nobody knows 100% until the dust settles. You may feel the need to say something. You may be blinded by emotions. But if you make a damning accusation, it better be grounded in reality. In general, the greater your influence, the more you should watch your tongue.
3. This doesn't mean that you cannot express a strong viewpoint.
It does mean that you accept when you are wrong. The most excellent people I know hold decisive, well-reasoned beliefs. Yet when faced with conflicting information, they examine the evidence and adjust their views accordingly. There's internal consistency in their thinking. That's the way it should be. The worst people - on the other hand - dismiss the evidence, downplay their errors, and double-down on their stances.
To be a person of influence, don't feel pressured to know it all. Don't pretend to have all the answers. Only then will the answers you do have - that which you can speak on with authority and authenticity - ring of truth and resonate widely.