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    1. The ‘Is it kind’ one absolutely should not always apply. Sometimes kind words are the last thing that’s needed

    2. Inquisitor--Nox on

      I can’t think of a situation where only 2 would apply and it shouldn’t be said. True and necessary? True and kind? Kind and necessary?

      All pass for me.

    3. The Four Way Test of Rotary International, basically.

      1. Is it the TRUTH?

      2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

      3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

      4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

    4. velvetrevolting on

      Yesterday this made sense. But, now I’m dealing with a supervillain entity and it’s henchmen.

    5. You have a president who, should he follow that guide, would be standing wordlessly in front of reporters, trying to find something to say. For once.

    6. nowwhathappens on

      I once heard Craig Ferguson say a similar thing, something like “Does it need to be said? Does it need to be said by me? Does it need to be said by me right now?”

    7. Desperate-Source-918 on

      My anxiety thinks this before everything I say, but I still end up saying the wrong thing, usually from overanalysing it.

    8. It’s a straightforward and strong warning. Choosing your words carefully is important, so it’s good to pause and think before you talk.

    9. 100% for truth and not being frivolous but I feel if what you might say suffices #3, go for it. Kindness rules.

    10. embellished-mind on

      I have to be blunt about this. These 3 questions are a prison built by people pleasers. Here’s the upgraded version that actually works in the real world:

      1. Is it TRUE? (Keep this one)
      2. Is it ACTIONABLE? (Replace ‘necessary’ – weak word)
      3. Will it ELEVATE? (Forget ‘kind’ – aim higher)

      Why? Because ‘necessary’ and ‘kind’ create passive, conflict-avoidant people. Sometimes the truth needs to sting. And unfortunately, discomfort is the only path to growth for some people,

      The goal isn’t to be nice. The goal is to be effective.

      Example: Telling someone their startup idea is garbage might not be ‘kind,’ but if it saves them from wasting 2 years of their life? That’s elevation.

      Brutal honesty + actionable insight = real growth.

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