Do you say what you really mean, or do you tiptoe around it? Be direct. Stop beating around the bush!
(By the way, here is the origin of the expression. Beating around the bush means not going straight to the point. It comes from an old hunting term. Beaters were people who went ahead of hunters to flush out the quarry. To those beaters who tried to have an easy day and avoid heavy undergrowth the hunters would call out “don’t beat around the bush, go through it.” Basically it means that one is being evasive and not coming to the point, or avoiding the main topic.)
Let’s apply this idea to everyday conversations or requests. When you need something, ask for it. (Politely, of course, and straight out.)
Change this – “Will you be near the bank today?” To this – “Can you make a deposit for me?”
Change this – “Look at that pile of clothes on your floor.” To this – “Time to do some laundry.”
No one is a mind-reader, and nobody wants to guess and be wrong. Say what you mean, and you’ll avoid the misunderstandings, impatience, and frustration of beating around the bush.
Fern Weis is a Parent Coach and Family Recovery Life Coach. She works with parents of teens and young adults who are going through difficult situations, from the homework wars to addiction recovery, and all points in between. Fern helps parents release guilt, end enabling, and confidently prepare their children to thrive and be successful through life's challenges. FernWeis.com | 201-747-9642