We all like to believe the people closest to us can tell us anything. But what happens when they actually tell us something we don’t want to hear?

In this episode, I’m talking about how our reactions can unintentionally teach our spouse, kids, friends, and other people we love what feels safe to bring to us - and what they’re better off keeping to themselves.

We’ll talk about why people stop bringing up the “little things,” how defensiveness can shut down honesty, and why creating a safe space for the truth doesn’t mean there are no boundaries, consequences, or disagreements.

I’ll also share a few simple ways to respond differently when someone tells you something difficult - including how to watch your first reaction, stop arguing someone out of their feelings, and separate honesty from approval.

Because the question isn’t just, “Are the people in my life honest with me?”

The better question may be: What happens when they are?

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