How simplifying impacts our personal life

People who attend my training always see how this can impact their work.

Many have also said it's improved their communication with family and friends!

When I talk to my young sons, I need to keep my main message brief. If I give a long lecture, my main messages are lost or confusing.

If I talk to my 11-year-old about honesty, maybe my main messages are:

1. Being honest is hard and takes practice.

2. Being honest will make your entire life better. 

3. I want you to feel comfortable being honest with me. I'd rather hear the truth. 

The full 30-second script might be something like this:

"Being honest doesn’t come naturally to us. It's hard and takes lots of practice. I'm still practicing being honest. Our instinct is often to lie.

But your life and your relationships with us, your brother, friends, teammates, and everyone will be much better if they can confidently believe what you say.

When we trust you more, we can give you more independence.

I want you to feel comfortable practicing honesty with me. I'd rather you tell the truth about something you did than lie about it.

What are your thoughts about this conversation? What's a recent example where you could have been more honest with me?"

What are your thoughts? I'd love to hear a story about how simplifying communication has impacted your personal life. Thanks!