Deliver hard truths the way you’d want to hear them: private, clear, and with a hand out.

Hard information lands differently depending on how it arrives, and choosing the delivery is not dishonesty. Said in front of other people it becomes a performance, and the person spends all their energy on their face rather than on your point. Said vaguely, it feels kind and is useless by morning. Said clearly, alone, with an offer attached, it can actually be used.

If you have something to tell somebody this week, choose the room before you choose the words. Be specific enough that they know exactly what you mean. Then finish with what you are willing to do about it, because that is what turns criticism into help.