We all know someone, or probably even are that someone, who boasts of being brutally honest.
They wear that badge with pride, trampling on feelings, crushing confidences and sometimes bringing tears to other people’s eyes with their, self-proclaimed version of , ‘Brutal Honesty’. Sometimes making you wonder what do they enjoy more, the brutality or the honesty? Because, more often than not, the very same people cannot accept anyone else being honest with them. And I am not even talking about being brutally honest here, just plain honest.
Honesty is difficult. People may endorse it, claim to have plenty of it but very few people appreciate it.
We may be honest in our mind but on the journey from thought to words honesty usually transforms into diplomacy, and sometimes even lies. For a number of reasons, like we don’t want to hurt the other person’s feelings, or don’t want to be disliked being the top two.
Should you be honest then? Yes, please! With people who know you, and will appreciate that trait. With people who know you mean well and won’t hold speaking the truth against you.
What about with the others? Keep mum, or be diplomatic, till you get to know them well enough for them to appreciate your honesty.
The truth is a strange beast.Fortunately or unfortunately it’s not absolute .That’s why diplomatic is the best way.But them again our tongues have a mind of their own
Oh yes, those brutally honest people. We’ve all met them. It’s better to remain quiet if you’ve nothing nice to say. It isn’t all about being truthful.
So true, Uma! Hurting people in the guise of ‘Truth!’ 🙂
Diplomacy is the new trend in today’s world, very few of us are strong enough to stand up by their honesty
Very fine line between being honest and being mean. I totally agree, keep honesty for the ones who really do seek your honest opinion but for all the rest, be tactful and answer with care.