I am 100% a yapper. Once I’m comfortable around someone, I’ll talk their ears off. I love telling convoluted stories, sharing my opinions, and even when I’m listening to someone else I’ll give them a stream of questions. If I’m alone, I’ll just talk to myself until I get weird looks.
Though being open and talkative can sometimes be seen as a bad thing, I think it has many benefits, as long as you stay balanced between talking and listening to others, of course. Being expressive allows you to be able to show more of yourself to others and bond over shared experiences, passions, and interests. It can also help you project a more confident demeanor, which can become a self-fulfilling prophecy as you gain more genuine confidence through the image you display. Putting yourself out there can make a world of difference in your ability to form meaningful connections.
Of course, becoming more open isn’t only a social process. It’s equally, if not more important to be honest with yourself. Journaling, creative writing, or even just talking to yourself are great ways to sort out your feelings verbally—which is crucial for understanding your own needs, dreams, and values.
I encourage all of my friends to be a bit more of a yapper—which isn’t to say that everyone needs to become talkative and extroverted. There’s equal value in spending time by yourself and knowing when to listen, and you should find a balance between the two that’s best for you. Rather, I think it’s important to learn how to express yourself and your identity verbally. It can be incredibly rewarding for your growth, your relationships with others, and staying connected to yourself.
