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About this quote

What does it mean?
Loyalty and honesty sometimes require saying harsh truths that upset everyone.
In plain terms
Being real means you might have to tell bad news that annoys people.
What can you take from it?
True loyalty includes telling hard truths.

Where it applies

  • calling out a friend
  • reporting misconduct
  • giving feedback

Putting it to work

  • speak truth kindly
  • prioritize integrity
  • expect backlash

Questions to consider

  • When was honesty more important than comfort?
  • How do you balance truth and kindness?

Another view

Constant bluntness can damage relationships even when well intentioned.

More from F. Scott Fitzgerald

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  3. The rhythm of the weekend, with its birth, its planned gaieties, and its announced end, followed the rhythm of life and was a substitute for it.

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