but ...

[dragonyphoenix]

“I don't want to be mean, but …”

Stop right there. You’re about to be mean. If you want to say whatever’s coming after the word “but” then lose “I don’t want to be mean.” You’re being mean. Own it.

If you really don’t want to be mean, then “I don’t want to be mean so I’ll stop now.”

Comments

[dragonyphoenix]

It is okay to be satisfied/pleased with yourself and with your own marked progress and growth as a person. That isn't necessarily the same as smugness or grandiosity. Ah, thank you. I'm the perfectionist child so if I'm having even a tiny mean-spirited thought I think I must be failing!

The brownie points is a great idea. It's so easy for us - people I mean - to focus on the negative. Actively looking for the positive is a great way to counter that.

Finally, I am very pleased that you are gaining something from this conversation! I find your posts and comments to be fascinating. Thank you. Me too with yours. There aren't many people in my life who get me thinking.

[alatefeline]

:)