I really love my wife. She is awesome and I cannot say enough good things about her. One of the characteristics I have come to appreciate about her is that she can be honest without being offensive. In case you’re one of the those individuals who needs an example of what I mean, here it is. The other day after I had finished getting dressed, I walked into the bathroom to vainly check myself in the full length mirror, but before I did, I decided to ask Leah what she thought of my outfit. In her sweet, non-British voice (she is a Brit turned US citizen as of December 2006) she said, “I like that shirt on you…it is slimming.” “Slimming,” I said. What did she mean by that and how did she slide that one by me without being offensive? She paid me a compliment, but at the same time challenged me to be more healthy.
In reality, I am willing to take criticism from someone who cares about me and is pushing me to grow; however, I do not respond well when an uncaring person offers rebuke. Most people are smart enough to know the difference. Oftentimes leaders must confront others in order to bring change, but when that individual interprets the leader’s advice as arrogance, they are less likely to alter their behavior. There are even some leaders who pride themselves in their “honesty and bluntness” when interacting with those under their leadership. Although a leader must always be truthful, he or she must be sure that their advice is being imparted in love.
Oh my…that outfit is slimming on you.
