Hiding your true thoughts or intentions is a weaker form of strategy. It takes a sharp mind and a brave heart to know when to speak the truth and to actually do it. That’s why the most cunning individuals are often not the ones who hide their intentions the most; people who rely heavily on hiding often lack the confidence or ability to navigate situations openly.
The Roman historian Tacitus observed that Livia, wife of Augustus Caesar, mastered her husband’s political skills, while their son Tiberius excelled in hiding his true intentions. Tacitus also noted that Mucianus, a key supporter of Vespasian, once said, “We do not rise against the judgment of Augustus nor the caution of Tiberius.” Tacitus was distinguishing between Augustus’ strategic brilliance and Tiberius’ secretive nature. These qualities—strategy and secrecy—are different skills. A person with sharp judgment can decide what to reveal, what to hide, and when to show just enough to keep people guessing. For such a person, the habit of hiding too much is unnecessary and even limiting. However, if someone lacks this level of discernment, secrecy and pretending become essential tools—a safer path for those who can’t handle the complexities of openness, much like walking carefully when you can’t see clearly.
The most capable people in history were known for their honesty and reliability. But they also knew when to hold back or pivot when necessary. When such people resorted to hiding their intentions, it was rare, deliberate, and effective. Their reputation for honesty was so strong that their occasional use of secrecy became almost invisible—hidden behind their established trustworthiness.
There are three levels of hiding your true self. The first is keeping secrets—guarding your thoughts and plans so that others can’t easily figure you out. The second is misdirection—giving subtle signals to make people think something different from the truth. The third is pretending—actively presenting yourself as someone or something you’re not.
Keeping secrets is a powerful virtue, like that of a trusted confidant. People naturally confide in those who can keep their mouths shut. After all, who would share their deepest truths with a gossip? Being perceived as discreet invites others to reveal their secrets. Much like how tightly sealed air draws in the surrounding open air, a person who guards their thoughts will naturally attract others’ confessions. Keeping secrets allows you to learn without exposing yourself, as people unburden their minds to you without expecting you to share in return. Moreover, just as physical nudity is indecent in most situations, complete openness in your thoughts and actions can diminish respect. A layer of mystery adds weight to your character.
On the other hand, talkative or frivolous people are often both shallow and gullible. They speak freely about what they know—and also about what they don’t. Therefore, cultivating the habit of secrecy is not only practical but also a moral discipline. Control your expressions as well as your words; sometimes your face betrays more than your tongue. People tend to believe body language even more than spoken words.
Misdirection often follows secrecy out of necessity. If you want to keep your thoughts hidden, you’ll sometimes need to steer others slightly off course. People will press you with questions or try to extract information. If you remain completely neutral, they’ll interpret your silence as meaning something anyway. So, a degree of misdirection—leaving room for misunderstanding—is a natural extension of keeping secrets.
However, outright pretending—actively deceiving people—is more dangerous and less useful. It’s acceptable only in rare and critical situations. Habitual pretending often stems from deeper flaws, such as insecurity, fear, or dishonesty. People who frequently pretend often do so to cover up their failings. Over time, this habit spills into other areas of life, eroding integrity.
Still, there are some advantages to hiding and pretending. First, they can neutralize opposition by concealing your intentions, allowing you to act without interference. Second, they offer an escape route—if you don’t declare your plans openly, you’re not forced to see them through at all costs. Third, they help you understand others. People are less defensive around someone they believe is open, making it easier to uncover their true motives. The Spanish proverb, “Tell a lie, and find a truth,” reflects this idea—deception can sometimes reveal hidden truths.
But there are drawbacks too. First, hiding and pretending often appear cowardly, and fear undermines ambition and credibility. Second, they confuse others, even those who might otherwise support you, leaving you isolated in your plans. Third and most importantly, they destroy trust, which is one of the most valuable tools for success.
The ideal approach is a balanced one: be known for your honesty and openness, practice secrecy when necessary, use misdirection sparingly, and pretend only when absolutely required. Master this balance, and you’ll gain the flexibility to adapt while preserving the trust and respect of those around you.
Bacon Blueprint 