The Simple Communication Shift That Will Save You Time, Energy, and Heartache

Say What You Mean & Mean What You Say

From parenting, to dating, to working with clients — one of the most consistent things people say about me is that I’m transparent, authentic, and easy to talk to without feeling judged.

I’ve always believed that when you relate to someone’s soul and heart instead of just their surface, you create a deeper connection. It’s not just about hearing what someone says — it’s about really listening and remembering who they are.

The other day, my teens and I were in the car listening to a couple of disc jockeys on Sirius bantering about oral hygiene. Out of nowhere, I mentioned that one of them had a parent who was a dentist. My kids whipped their heads around and asked, “How in the world do you know that?” Without missing a beat, I told them, “About ten years ago, during Halloween, they were talking about how their dad was a dentist and they handed out toothbrushes instead of candy.”

That’s just how my brain works — I file away little facts about people without even realizing it. And to me, those details matter. They make conversations richer. They make connections stick. They keep relationships real.

Over the years, I’ve realized that this way of connecting ties directly into my love for directness. I want people to speak openly, mean what they say, and follow up with action. Guessing games, mixed signals, and trying to read between the lines? That’s where I check out. If you want conversations that are real, intentions that are obvious, and actions that match your words — I’m your gal.

Why Directness Matters to Me

• It builds trust — When I know where I stand with you, I can relax into the relationship

• Mixed signals breed anxiety — Nobody thrives when they’re stuck decoding someone’s hidden meaning

• Clear intentions save energy — I’d rather spend my time with people who show up authentically

• It sets the tone — My boundaries protect my peace and invite better conversations

  
  

And here’s the part that made me smile last week — I’ve clearly passed this down to my kids. One of my teens told me they struggle with “small talk” when texting friends and family because they’d rather have deeper conversations than rehash the weather or what’s for dinner. They want real connection, too.

That’s the ripple effect.

When we model directness and depth in how we communicate, the people around us — especially our kids — learn that it’s not only okay to want more, but it’s healthy.

Journal Prompts

1. Where in my life am I still “reading between the lines” instead of asking directly?

2. Who in my life consistently matches their words with their actions — and how does that impact me?

3. What’s one conversation I can start this week that feels deeper and more authentic?