Do you tell people the truth, or tell them what they want to hear?

Answer 1

Depending on how close I am to the person, is the gauge that I go by. If it's just an acquaintance at work, I might laugh and go along with most things...

I might jokingly say what it is that I mean. You know, "Oh that's terrible, giggle, giggle. You're the worst, cackle cackle" When I really mean, "you're a demented psychopath, and I wouldn't be seen in public with you outside of work"...It wouldn't help my situation at work to go on the warpath with this person, so I just try to get my point across in a passive way. Sad, but effective, and you're not left feeling like you've danced with the devil.

If on the other hand it is someone unlucky enough to be close to me, then I find a way to let them know exactly what it is that I need to say. This involves multiple forms of manipulation, but i figure that whatever it takes to get the point across, then that's what's important in the end...

Answer 2

There is a third option, which is what I do: I tell people what I think they NEED. The truth is one thing, their own illusions another... I second-guess people and try to answer the question they never asked, but felt deep inside. People just aren't good at expressing what really moves them. But if you've been around, you'll read them no problem, and get a direct transmission of a soul in trouble if you ignore the bullshit and the front. Answer to that, and you're cruising - they'll love you.

Answer 3

I tell people the truth that way I never have to try and remember what I said if the question comes up again.

Answer 4

In general I tell the truth... But sometimes I keep silent if the truth is too hard. But definitely I don't say what they want to hear if it is not true.

Answer 5

I really believe that honesty is the best answer.. lies or even half truths always come out in the end.

Hugs from a Loving Mom to a Brillant, as well as beautiful 8 year old Jared and Our Angel, Zachary (taken to soon but who will always remain in our heart) ~ Mel

~ If You Don’t Stand Behind Our Troops, Feel Free To Stand In Front Of Them! ~

Answer 6

I tell people the truth, it may hurt when I tell them,but will hurt even worse when the truth comes out later.

Answer 7

I tell them the truth..If you tell them what they want to hear they will never have to deal with disappointment..Why lie ? Because thats what you are doing by not telling the truth...Honesty is the best policy

Answer 8

I always tell people the truth

Answer 9

I tell them as much as I think they can handle, so that way I wouldn't be cruel to them, and I wouldn't lie to them either. The truth always helps the situation, so better to say what you really think. If they get angry or hurt, they don't need an honest friend, so you don't need them either.

Answer 10

both. if i don't care what they think and want to humour them, i tell them what they want to hear. if i feel more strongly, i tell the truth. I usually just tell the truth though.