To Mince Words or not in the “patty” of Hard Stuff?
Imagine if not mincing our words was valued, rather than seen as rude, inconsiderate, abrupt or inappropriate.
And when it comes to loss, grief and heartache, wouldn’t allowing people an honest voice rather than silencing, ignoring or stumbling on what to say to be “respectful” be valuable and an antidote to suppressed or covered up grief and loss. Surely the truth is also the doorway to considered and more consciously made personal choices and a catalyst for well-needed change in the collective.
What are some scenarios of not mincing words?
A physician being open and honest when asked about a cancer prognosis. A complaint letter after malpractice causing a stillbirth. Revealing your abuse to someone you trust. Approaching an employer about a colleague whose mental health is in question and who may need support. Holding a health awareness event about something you’ve been through and the pitfalls to avoid. Talking around the family table about feelings of how life really is.
It’s not an easy task for many of us to speak what’s really on our heart. Instead, we mince our words by softening what we want to say, keep things to ourselves, or cage things to sound more appetising. Why do we do this? We’re scared of thinking we’ll be unpopular or seen as a complainer or feel like it’s not our place to say something. We fear the consequences (usually unpredictable) more than realise the positive impact we might be making.
So how do I relate? Yesterday I decided to talk to my husband’s construction boss in confidence. I was concerned about my lovely’s morale and felt it was important his company be aware of the factors, so that together we could find ways to be of best support. I didn’t mince words.
The boss cried. I was touched that he listened so carefully, offered tangible support and assured me there were resources they could provide. Last night I told my husband I had done this. It meant a lot to him. Equally I felt relieved that I was not the only one to be “holding” the load of care and concern. Team effort with “the boys”. But it required guts to not mince words.
What’s your scenario that is stirring you to be brutally honest? Bold Women Speak pats you on the back for being bold of voice. It’s all about voice medicine for yourself and others.
Love the taste of this?
Jump on my email list at www.boldwomenspeak.com as we’re just 6 weeks away from launching our Bold Women Speak Collective – giving grief and voice and women the choice to rise through non-mincing of words.
