I was raised by my mom to tell the truth and I do. Except I have not learned how to tell the truth in a tactful manner. I am brutally honest with other people. However, I don't understand how many hoops I have to go through. Do people really really want to just be lied too? How does a person learn to be tactful anyway when they were never taught? Seeing from my observation I do not know what really is the main priority in life. Telling the Truth which hurts, or telling you a Lie which feels good.
2007-03-04 04:49:21 · 9 answers · asked by Don't Know 5 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
I tend to be honest. If someone asks if they can ask me a question I always say yes but I tell them they should expect an honest answer even if it hurts. Sometimes the truth is a matter of personal opinion and sometimes it is an absolute fact. If you lie you have compromised your own integrity.
2007-03-04 05:18:03 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is nothing wrong with being honest, I do think that being brutally honest is another thing. The truth can hurt but what you need to remember is how you word it can hurt just as bad if not more. You can tell the truth while still being sensitive to their feelings also sometimes the truth is better told in private so not to embarrass anyone. I think if you learn to tell people the truth in a way that shows you are not out to hurt or embarrass them than you wont have a problem deciding whether or not to tell them the truth. I am the same way except I always think on it before talking to someone even if I have to wait a day or two before doing so. I won't lie to them no matter what but I am not out to hurt them either.
2007-03-04 05:04:20 · answer #2 · answered by Petra 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Being direct with the truth towards someone is best but there are ways to go about it "politely" and professionally...depending on the setting and situation. If it's something the person seriously needs to know or there's a problem they need to address and they need to know the truth of the matter about the situation or about themselves...then you need to tell them but think first before speaking. Tell them calmly and kind of try to be empathetic and on their receiving end...how would you like to be told the truth ? Some situations are better off left alone, things left unsaid. Don't be ugly and nasty to someone...don't speak to them in condescending tones. Just do what you've gotta do as pleasantly as possible without being rude or hateful. Some people deserve more stern measures and discipline, but there again...each situation is different. Just use common sense and empathy (not sympathy) when trying to decide what to say or do. No need to be mean, though.
2007-03-04 05:02:16 · answer #3 · answered by BRAT 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Always choose honesty over being tactless. Do not say everything that come to your mind. Comment only if you are asked. Be mindful of other peoples feelings. Think about what you are saying before you say it. I am still working on these things and It is a continual work. These rules can be broken if you have friends in your life that want the truth in order to grow. But this is not for everybody.
2007-03-04 04:58:18 · answer #4 · answered by Mrs. Morality 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't believe in writing long answer unless when, and where required. Here is a simple answer to your question.
Honesty is the best policy(as old saying goes on ) and best tact is you use wisdom with truth.
Your mother is a great woman she taught you to tell the truth convey her my heartiest sentiments for a good up bringing .
Last of all when truth comes, falsehood by it's nature is bound to perish.
"If you are a good reader between the lines I have answered all your questions"
2007-03-04 05:22:29 · answer #5 · answered by Dr.Qutub 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I am a very honest person, blunt, to the point. Anyone that knows me will tell you that they always know where they stand with me. I think it is always better to be honest, but the problem is alot of people don't want to hear honesty, they simply do not want to be told the truth. And if they do, they want the truth sugar coated so it doesn't hurt or affect them too much. Stick with the truth, always.
2007-03-04 05:05:18 · answer #6 · answered by ragincajun1957 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It helps if you know the motive of the person asking the question. If your truthful answer will intentionally harm someone for no good reason, it would be tactful to say I don't know, or merely change the direction of the conversation.
2007-03-04 04:59:50 · answer #7 · answered by jen 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you have to look at the way the question is being asked. Sometimes, people want approval, not the truth. For instance, If someone says "does this dress make me look fat?", and you think they do look fat in that dress, I'd say "no, the dress doesn't make you look fat," -- but I would stop short of saying "you look fat no matter what you're wearing."
If it's your personal opinion someone is asking for, be brutally honest -- otherwise, you're just a sycophant.
2007-03-04 05:03:35 · answer #8 · answered by Resident Heretic 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Blast them with the truth, it is better to just say it. Yes the truth hurts because it is supposed to.
2007-03-04 04:58:53 · answer #9 · answered by Rosie the Riviter 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋