Say It Directly

We often beat around the bush when it comes to difficult conversations. We think it’s better to start with some chit-chat, pay a compliment, and only then get to the point.

But it rarely is. Even the nice, true things you say are then perceived as manipulative lies said only to soften the blow.

Best to get the difficult part out in the open as soon as possible.

“The results are horrible.”
“We’re behind schedule.”
“I made a terrible mistake.”
“This isn’t going to work.”

When you’re done with the worst part, both sides can work on finding a solution instead of fretting about what comes next.