I learned the best piece of advice for relationships – not only romantic relationships, but for when you are talking to anyone – a friend, family member, colleague – from a pre-marriage course that my husband and I took through our church while we were planning our wedding.
This piece of advice stuck with me because I immediately realized that it could be applied in nearly any context, whenever I am having a conversation.
The advice is this:
Before you speak to someone, consider the following three questions about what you are planning to say:
- Is it true?
- Is it necessary?
- Is it kind?
If you cannot quickly say “yes” to at least 2 of those 3 questions, don’t say it.
In my experience, running through these 3 considerations now and then have assisted me with keeping conversations positive and meaningful.