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About this quote

What does it mean?
Tomlin advocates for directness, implying indirectness has no value.
In plain terms
If you can't be direct, don't say anything.
What can you take from it?
Directness is more valuable than indirectness.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • business
  • personal relationships

Putting it to work

  • be direct in communication
  • avoid indirect hints

Questions to consider

  • When is directness useful?
  • Why avoid being indirect?

Another view

Sometimes indirectness is necessary for politeness.

More from Lily Tomlin

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