Have you ever had one of those moments where you were asked for an honest opinion but you had to lie to avoid offending the other person? Well, believe it or not, we have all been there at one point or the other. Especially girls and women have had to experience this all their life. There are very few who have mastered the art of giving subtle “I love you, but I hate what you are wearing” suggestions.
I, personally have been on both sides of this situation and I consider myself lucky that I have friends and family who are honest about things up front when I ask them for an opinion. It won’t be long until I do something stupid, post something stupid or wear something totally weird that I get an instant text or a call and hear this on the other side, “What on earth were you thinking Sheekha?”. I like the fact that people who are close to me understand and prevent me from making a fool out of myself when I step out. Thanks to my mom, I now know how to dress up on traditional occasions. Thanks to a lot of friends of mine, I am no longer that girl who doesn’t know the difference between a top and a t-shirt or when to wear one. (Yeah, it sounds weird, but trust me, plain tops and chiffon blouses do make you look elegant). I am not opposing the notion of wear what you like and don’t judge, but I have learnt that the way you present yourself does matter and it starts with what you’ve worn.
There are always two sides to every coin so, I asked a colleague of mine what she thought of honest opinions and she said “It really depends. If I try a new hair color, and it maybe doesn’t look the best but I clearly feel good about it….LIE, but if we are talking about career decisions, parenting, home buying…tell the truth.” She also goes on to say, “I’m usually an honesty-is-the-best-policy person, but if honesty will hurt a person over something trivial, one should keep that opinion to themselves. Guard hearts whenever you can – but save lives always. Is that too weird?” If you think about it, it does make sense. You never know who you could hurt with your opinions. Especially teenage girls, or someone who is trying hard and putting in an effort to be their best at something. All I’m saying is, don’t be a bitch and go about broadcasting your opinions or suggestions all the time. Consider the situations and surroundings. You never know when things could go absolutely south.
I, personally would want honest opinions no matter what, but, only if I’ve asked for it. 😊 Also, remember one other thing, if you’ve given honest opinions to someone which weren’t good, ready to be on the other side too and that’s the beauty of it. While it is good to be surrounded by people who praise you, are positive and support you always, you would know that there are very few amongst those who know exactly what looks good on you, can be honest with you and know what’s really best for you. Don’t let them go.
So, think before you answer yes to the question, “Do you want my honest opinion?”, because you might not always like how it ends. However, if you are someone who would want honest opinions, but you still prefer to do what you like, then go for it! Don’t let the world and their opinions stop you! This gif is for you. Cheers!
InExAcT as always.
–Sheekha