Sometimes, in an effort to help craft our identity, we’ll share some personal information with casual acquaintances. We’ll mention some academic coursework. Or a complex family situation. Or a hobby. Or a medical condition.

The problem occurs when we do this too often. When we lead with the same story each time. When we tell before we’re asked.

If we’re not careful, instead of being the person who is ______, we’ll be remembered as the person who always tells us he is ______.

It’s great to know who you are, and it’s important to have a story. But you don’t have to lead with that story every time we see you.