Always tip-toeing around people’s feelings, terrified of saying the wrong thing, is no way to live.
You might not want to offend anyone, but you can’t just swallow your thoughts, feelings, and opinions because someone might not like it. Stop walking on eggshells and start saying these things instead. You’ll be a lot happier for it.
1. “I get where you’re coming from, but I disagree.”
When you don’t agree with someone but don’t want to start a row, this is a good option. It shows you’ve listened and respect their view, even if you don’t share it. Plus, it opens the door for a proper discussion instead of a shouting match.
2. “I need some time to think about that.”
Feeling pressured to give an answer right away? This is your get-out-of-jail-free card. It buys you time to mull things over without committing to something you might regret, and it’s really useful when you’re caught off guard or need to check your diary before making plans. Remember, it’s okay to hit the pause button sometimes.
3. “I’m not comfortable with that.”
This one’s a cracker for setting boundaries without being aggressive. Whether it’s a dodgy joke or a favour you’d rather not do, this lets you stand your ground without coming across as a party pooper. It’s clear, it’s honest, and it doesn’t leave much room for argument. After all, who can argue with how you feel?
4. “Can we talk about this when we’re both calmer?”
Sometimes, tempers flare, and before you know it, you’re in a blow-up. Saying this is a good way to call a time-out in a heated game. It shows you’re not running away from the issue, but you’re smart enough to know that sorting it out when you’re both fuming isn’t going to end well.
5. “I hear what you’re saying, and I’d like to explain my side.”
This is a brilliant way to make sure you get a word in edgeways without seeming like you’re just waiting for your turn to talk. It proves that you’ve been listening (always a good start) and politely asks for your turn to speak. It’s especially handy when you’re dealing with someone who likes the sound of their own voice a bit too much.
6. “I made a mistake, and I’m sorry.”
Owning up to your mistakes isn’t easy, but it’s a lot better than trying to weasel out of them. This shows you’re big enough to admit when you’ve messed up. No excuses, no drama, just straight-up accountability. It’s surprising how much respect you can earn by simply holding your hands up when you’re in the wrong.
7. “I value our relationship, so I want to be honest with you.”
Sometimes you’ve got to say something that might ruffle a few feathers, but you don’t want to lose a friend over it. Saying this sets the stage for a tricky conversation by reminding the other person that you care about them. It might just help soften the blow.
8. “I understand you’re upset, but please don’t speak to me like that.”
When someone’s giving you an earful, it’s tempting to either shout back or just take it, but this offers a middle ground. It validates their feelings (always a good move) but also puts your foot down about how you expect to be treated. It’s assertive without being aggressive — a proper balancing act.
9. “I’d like to understand your point of view better.”
This one’s a winner when you’re completely baffled by someone’s opinion or behaviour. Instead of dismissing them or getting into a tiff, you’re asking them to explain themselves. It shows you’re willing to listen and might even learn something new.
10. “I need some support with this.”
Asking for help can feel like pulling teeth sometimes, but this a game-changer. It’s not whinging, it’s not dumping your problems on someone else — it’s just being honest about needing a hand. Whether it’s at work or in your personal life, most people are chuffed to bits when you trust them enough to ask for support.
11. “I don’t have all the answers, but I’m willing to work on this together.”
This is a brilliant one for those sticky situations where you’re expected to have all the solutions. You’re being honest with your limitations, but also showing that you’re committed to finding a way forward. It’s like saying, “I’m not perfect, but I’m here, and I’m trying.”
12. “I appreciate your input, but I’ve made my decision.”
Sometimes, you’ve just got to put your foot down, and this does it without being a total jerk about it. It acknowledges that you’ve heard them out (always important) but also makes it clear that the final call is yours. It’s particularly useful when dealing with people who think every decision is up for debate.
13. “Can we start over? I think we got off on the wrong foot.”
We’ve all had those conversations that go pear-shaped from the get-go, but saying this is like hitting the reset button. It shows you’re willing to let go of whatever went wrong and try again. It’s surprisingly disarming — most people are more than happy to have a do-over if it means avoiding a nasty argument.
14. “I’m feeling overwhelmed right now. Can we talk about this later?”
Sometimes, you’re just not in the right headspace for a heavy chat, so when you’re feeling frazzled, this is a good go-to. It’s honest about your current state without brushing off the other person or the issue at hand. You’re basically saying, “I care about this, but I can’t deal with it right this second.” Most decent people will respect that.
15. “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.”
Given that everyone’s always trying to look like they’ve got it all figured out, admitting you don’t know something can feel scary. However, this is actually a power move because it shows honesty and a willingness to learn. Plus, it’s much better than lying your way through something and getting caught out later. People respect someone who’s upfront about their knowledge gaps.
