Falsehood is cowardice, the truth courage.

Most lies are not built out of malice. They are built out of fear: of a reaction, of losing something, of being seen clearly. That is why a small untruth feels like relief in the moment and like weight afterwards. Telling the truth costs something up front, which is exactly what makes it brave rather than merely correct.

Think of one thing you have been shading lately, softening or leaving out. Ask what you are actually afraid will happen if you say it plainly. Then say the plain version to one person who deserves it.