Tact is telling the truth kindly, considerate of how your words affect others’ feelings. Think before you speak, knowing what is better left unsaid.
When you are tactful, others find it easier to hear what you have to say. Tact builds bridges.
You are practicing tact when you:
– Are careful about the feelings of others,
– Stop yourself from teasing or embarrassing others,
– Tell the truth kindly and gently,
– Decide if it is better to tell the truth or keep silent,
– Keep unpleasant or critical thoughts to yourself, and
– Treat people who are different as you would treat anyone.
Affirmation:
I am tactful. I think before I speak. I am diplomatic even when I feel strongly. I tell the truth kindly and gently.
The Family Connection was established in 2005 by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands as an early-childhood initiative. The mission of TFC is to strengthen the community child care and early education infrastructure in the USVI by building awareness of the importance of early learning and development for success and working with community agencies to promote quality care and education.
One of its efforts is the Virtues Project, an international initiative focused on building peaceful and caring communities.
The Source supports the Virtues Project. We will publish one of the virtues developed by the project each week.
