Blunt...

I’m a big believer in the idea that clear is kind. To me, being upfront and straightforward isn’t just a preference; it’s a philosophy. If I’m going to say something, I’m going to say it plainly, without beating around the bush or sugarcoating the truth. In a world full of polite half-truths and vague suggestions, I prefer to cut through the noise and just tell it like it is.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: Isn’t bluntness a little harsh? Doesn’t it risk hurting people’s feelings? Sure, it can—if it’s done without care or consideration. But here’s the thing: I don’t believe that honesty and kindness are mutually exclusive. In fact, I think they go hand in hand. When I’m blunt, it’s not because I’m trying to be mean; it’s because I value clarity, and I think you deserve to know exactly where I stand.

Think about it this way: If I’m not clear, how can you trust what I’m saying? If I dance around the truth or hide behind vague words, it’s like I’m keeping you at arm’s length, leaving you to guess what I really mean. And that, in my opinion, is far more frustrating and potentially hurtful than just being upfront from the start.

When I say clear is kind, I mean that clarity saves everyone time, energy, and emotional confusion. Imagine being in a situation where someone is giving you feedback, but they’re so worried about hurting your feelings that they end up saying nothing helpful at all. You walk away thinking everything’s fine when, in reality, there’s a problem that’s just been swept under the rug. Later, when that problem rears its ugly head, you’re blindsided—and it’s all because someone didn’t have the guts to be clear with you. Compassion is clear communication.

Or consider those moments when someone asks, “What do you want to do?” and everyone responds with “I don’t know, whatever you want.” Cue the endless loop of indecision and vague suggestions, where no one really says what they mean, and you end up doing something no one actually wanted to do. If someone—anyone—had just spoken up and said, “I want to go here” or “I’d rather not do that,” you’d be spared the whole back-and-forth. See? Clear is kind.

Of course, there’s an art to being blunt without being brutal. It’s all about delivery. My goal isn’t to bulldoze over people’s feelings but to communicate in a way that leaves no room for misunderstanding. I can tell you that something’s not working or that I disagree without making you feel like I’m attacking you. It’s not about being rude; it’s about being real. When I’m direct, you know where I stand—and that’s a form of respect.

But the flip side is that I expect the same in return. If I ask for feedback, I want the truth, not a sugar-coated version that spares my feelings but leaves me in the dark. If something’s bothering you, tell me. If you disagree, say so. I can handle it—really. I’d rather deal with a little discomfort now than let things fester into a bigger issue later on. That’s why I appreciate people who are blunt, too. I don’t want to guess what’s going on in your head; I’d rather you just tell me.

At the end of the day, clear communication builds trust. It shows that you respect the other person enough to be honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. It creates a space where everyone knows where they stand, and there’s no need for second-guessing or reading between the lines. And that, in my book, is the kindest thing you can do.

Summary of Key Points:

• Believing that “clear is kind” means prioritizing straightforward, honest communication to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.

• Bluntness, when delivered with care, is a way of showing respect by being upfront and clear about where I stand.

• Avoiding sugarcoating or vague language builds trust and ensures that everyone knows exactly what’s being communicated.

• Clear communication saves time and emotional energy by preventing misinterpretations and addressing issues directly.

• The philosophy of clear is kind extends to expecting and appreciating the same level of honesty in return, fostering a space of mutual respect and understanding.