You decided now is the time to be more honest and tell the truth. You've had it with the lies, half-truths, and omitting important details. Finally, after years of people pleasing and bending the truth to avoid conflict, you have had enough! Either way, you've decided to start being more honest with others, and that's a great thing; but as you might have noticed, honesty isn't always easy. In fact, it can sometimes be downright difficult. While this newfound honesty may be liberating for you, it may not be so well-received by those around you. So, why is it so important?
When you are honest with yourself, you are able to live with integrity. This means that your actions align with your words and values. People who are honest with themselves tend to be happier and more fulfilled because they aren't living a lie. They don't have to keep track of their falsehoods or worry about being caught in a web of lies. Furthermore, honesty builds trust! When you are honest with others, they are more likely to trust you and your opinions. Consider you have an important decision to make and you want to get a second opinion; wouldn’t you seek the advice of a friend who is known to tell you the truth?
Honesty creates confidence in relationships. When we share our true thoughts and feelings with others, we are opening ourselves up to them in a very vulnerable way. This vulnerability creates closeness and familiarity that are essential for any healthy relationship. No one wants to be around someone who always tells them what they want to hear, because it’s not genuine. Honesty is the foundation for any good relationship. If you're not being honest with someone, then you're not giving them the opportunity to trust you; and without trust, relationships simply cannot thrive.
Keep in mind, telling the truth can also be painful for both you and for the person who hears it, if it’s not expressed with kindness. The blunt truth can hurt feelings and cause conflict that can lead to awkwardness and tension. So, before you blurt out the first thing that comes to mind, take a moment to consider how you are sharing the honesty. Is this just a passing thought you are having, or will this information help the situation? Remember you are trying to be more truthful, not intentionally hurtful.
There is nothing wrong with wanting to be more honest. It's never too late to start telling the truth, even if it hasn't been your habit up until this point. After all, nothing good ever comes from constantly lying or telling half-truths. Being honest can feel liberating and have a positive impact on your relationships between yourself and those around you. Being truthful is not always easy and some will not appreciate it; however it is important in building your own trustworthiness and showing your integrity to others. So, be brave and try to be more honest; you won't regret it!