Had an interesting discussion with a client yesterday. He initially had difficulty with the idea that if you consciously modify your responses in a social or other communicating situation (in the interests of the other person) that it's dishonest. Not necessarily so. Authenticity and honesty shouldn't be confused with communication versatility. In which you and I will make whatever shifts are essential to the effectiveness and success of the communication - and where appropriate, the comfort of the other participant. This is usually necessary when they can't or won't make a move into compromise territory. Provided your intention is facilitation (an activity) and not maniplulation (an intention), you're on the right track.
Always 'telling it like it is' can sometimes be incredibly hurtful to others. There's an old Eastern dictum which advises: 'Tell the truth in the way that commits least injury.' Trying it is the beginning of effective interpersonal communication.
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