5 Tips To Voice Your Opinion The Right Way

opinion
February 21, 2013 by 4 Comments

Voicing your opinion is a must in this world. You can’t just float through without sharing how you feel and what you believe. I’ve adopted an “honest is best” policy in my life that has served me well. Mostly, I should say that it has served me well, mostly. You see, there are times when I’m slightly too honest.

Too honest, you ask? There is a very fine line between voicing an opinion and being downright hurtful towards somebody. For the most part I walk the line well but there are times when I stagger to one side and feelings get hurt. Such is the risk you run when you have little to no filter on your mouth at times. I can help you voice your opinion without alienating those around you.

Voice Your Opinion Tip 1: Assess the Situation

Take a moment to see what is going on around you and what the people around you are going through. If your friend is in tears over a breakup now may not be the time to tell her that you always hated her ex (even if you did). If somebody is getting riled up over gun control and you’re hand is twitching to show him or her your permit to carry, hold off a second. Assess the level of emotion going on and decide if now is the time to voice your opinion.

I’m not saying to bite your tongue and never tell them how they made you feel, or what you think of the situation, but use some discretion about when to drop the bomb. Take into account the emotional state of those you are about to be honest with and exhibit a little control. When emotions are running high with one party it’s probably best to wait for a more level headed time.

Voice Your Opinion Tip 2: Know Your Place

Not everyone wants to hear your opinion. Sometimes it’s necessary to voice it even when it isn’t asked for but most times you want to make sure the person welcomes your thoughts on the matter. A discussion on the latest new artist is a lot different than offering your opinion on somebody’s most recent family drama. Sometimes it is better to just listen and keep it zipped up.

There are times that I don’t hold my tongue and others where I know that it’s better if I keep my thoughts to myself. If you are casual acquaintances with somebody it’s probably best not to mention that their husband is a raging tool. If your childhood friend starts acting like Lindsay Lohan on a binge then step in whether she wants to hear it or not.

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Jewels is our Senior Editor, in charge of website content, as well as the COO. When not working to ensure The Indie Chicks is the best possible site for our readers, she's probably spending time with family or friends. Her free time is dedicated to her love of music, reading, writing, and anything crafty. Don't hesitate to reach out...she loves chatting with our readers.

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  • http://www.habitsofthinking.wordpress.com Rene

    Great tips, and interesting points you made with each tip. It’s a big thing I struggle with, myself. I never know when honesty is going to be accepted or when it’s going to blow up into something not worth the trouble. Generally, my blunt honesty is resesrved people I know actually want that type of honesty.

    • http://www.accordingtojewels.com Jewels

      For the most part I keep it to people I know will appreciate the comment, or love me enough to forgive it. I’m glad that you enjoyed the article.

  • http://www.theindiechicks.com Chiara Mazzucco

    I LOVE this post, Jewels! It is BEYOND important to voice your opinion.. but there is definitely a right and wrong way to do it… a right time and a wrong time. I think it comes down to why you’re voicing it in the first place: are you speaking up to seek change or are you speaking up to establish your place – your dominance – and feed your ego? If it’s the former, which it should be, one should be able to assess and manipulate the right and wrongs. If it’s the latter… there’s no question about it.. none of these tips apply because the person will be done voicing before they even stop to think of what the consequences may be. LOVE this, though. It is so important to voice your option the right way!

    • http://www.accordingtojewels.com Jewels

      So true! Those seeking attention and glory in putting others “in their place” will never adhere to these rules. However, for the average person in the average situation, hopefully these will be helpful. I’m glad you agree and loved the post. :D