🐸👑 Honesty or Lack of Tact? A Line Not Worth Crossing
Honesty is one of the most important values in human relationships. It builds trust, fosters growth, and serves as the foundation for healthy connections. But is every form of honesty good? Does “being honest” always justify hurting someone else?
Unfortunately, I often encounter attitudes summed up by phrases like: “I’m just being honest, so I can say whatever I want” or “It’s just constructive criticism.” People who say this believe their comments—even the most painful and humiliating ones—are justified because they’re “telling the truth.” But is that really what honesty is about?
The Fine Line Between Honesty and Lack of Empathy
Honesty should be an expression of care—not a tool for criticizing others under the guise of “good intentions.” Too often, we forget that:
1. Everyone Makes Mistakes
People who criticize others often forget that they, too, are far from perfect. It’s easy to judge someone else’s actions, decisions, or appearance, but let’s pause for a moment—how would we feel if someone treated us the same way?
Would we consider public ridicule or harsh criticism as “constructive feedback”? Probably not.
As the saying goes:
“Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.”
2. Everyone Sees the World Differently
No two people in the world share the same experiences, life stories, or values. Our perception of reality is shaped by what we’ve lived through. Criticizing others without understanding their perspective is not only unfair—it’s completely irrational.
How can someone suddenly “step into your shoes” and tell you how to see the world?
They can share their opinion—and that’s it.
3. Criticism Isn’t Always Constructive
True constructive criticism aims to help and improve, not to humiliate someone.
If your words leave someone feeling embarrassed, attacked, or discouraged, it’s not constructive—it’s just plain insensitivity.
What to Do Before Criticizing Someone?
Next time you feel the urge to criticize, call someone out, or “tell it like it is,” try this approach instead:
- Write it down first. Get your emotions out and describe what’s bothering you.
- Pause and read it again.
- Ask yourself: How would I feel if someone said this to me? Would I find it helpful or feel attacked?
- Delete it and don’t post it.
Believe me, the world will survive just fine without this particular dose of “honesty.” Your “truth” is likely not as necessary as you think.
My Secret? I Get Tempted Too!
To be honest, I also sometimes feel tempted to write something sharp—something that would hit hard and make someone think twice.
And yes, sometimes I even write it all out. But… before I hit publish, I read it again and delete it.
Because I know that the world will get by without my “honesty.” It’s survived plenty before—and it’ll survive this too.
Honesty Is a Tool, Not a Weapon
Honesty can either build or destroy—it all depends on how we use it. Instead of treating honesty as an excuse to hurt others, we should see it as a tool to build trust, growth, and connection.
Let’s remember:
- Empathy should always come before honesty.
- Everyone makes mistakes—that’s part of being human.
- Before you speak, ask yourself how you’d feel hearing those words.
Conclusion
Being honest is a wonderful trait—but only when it’s paired with tact and understanding. Criticizing others under the pretense of honesty often ignores the fact that we all have different sensitivities and experiences.
Before you criticize someone publicly, think:
Would you like to be in their shoes?
Would you truly see such comments as “constructive criticism”?
More Inspiration on Communication and Growth
For more insights on communication, authenticity, and personal growth, check out my blog “Successful Mindset” on LinkedIn
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments!
What are your experiences with “honest criticism”? Do you think it can always be justified by good intentions?
Your perspective may inspire others! 🌟
Check out book -> https://briantracy-magdalenalaabs.de/collections/all