Short Answer 
This answer discusses the importance of prioritizing kindness and emotional wellbeing over complete honesty in communication. It outlines the need for sensitivity by recognizing and valuing others’ emotions, while also exploring the concept of complete honesty and the balance required in relationships to ensure both truthfulness and care.
Step 1: Understanding Sensitivity
Being sensitive involves recognizing and valuing the emotions of others during conversations. This means we take into account how our words might affect them. Rather than presenting harsh truths, we choose to protect their feelings by being mindful and considerate. Key aspects include:
- Empathy towards others’ emotions.
- Choosing words carefully to avoid hurt.
- Creating a supportive atmosphere in communication.
Step 2: The Nature of Complete Honesty
Being completely honest is about delivering the unfiltered truth, regardless of its emotional ramifications for the listener. While this approach values transparency and authenticity, it can sometimes lead to discomfort or hurt feelings. It can be characterized by:
- Direct communication without holding back.
- A focus on facts over emotional considerations.
- Maintaining integrity through straightforwardness.
Step 3: The Balance Between Sensitivity and Honesty
Finding a balance between being sensitive and honest is crucial in relationships. Prioritizing sensitivity means we may opt to withhold certain truths to spare someone’s feelings, suggesting that kindness takes precedence over harsh realities. This balance can be achieved by:
- Assessing the emotional state of the listener.
- Deciding when honesty is necessary for growth.
- Strategically sharing truths while still being sensitive.