Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav

How do you tell your friend that you disagree with them without hurting their feelings?

Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Sep 29, 2021
...read more
I would first listen to my friend carefully all their points and reference because they have some view point which I haven't seen. so after listening to them I would answer them assertively that everyone have their own view point about things and my point of view differs from theirs.
Struggling with Relationship Stress?
Find relief with 7 Cups online therapy.
Profile: dialangelnumbers
dialangelnumbers on Nov 3, 2021
...read more
I think it is important to realize that your friends are your friends for a reason. They are the people that we can be our most genuine selves to, that we can empathize and show who we really are. So in terms of hurting their feelings, it is important to remember to come from a place of love and understanding when talking to them or giving them advice on a situation. It is very easy to not see or understand where boundaries could be crossed. But it is important to remember that as a friend, your support and honesty is what matters the most as well.
Profile: hopefulFreedom8727
hopefulFreedom8727 on Dec 11, 2021
...read more
Show your friend you have listened to them, tell them you understand and appreciate their perspective. You could then ask them if they have ever thought about it like this? Also it’s a good idea to start the sentence with “I believe”- everybody has a different belief system, so by saying this you could let your friend know that you believe something different without implying they are wrong. You will come across a lot less intimidating. If you and your friend can’t see eye to eye, try to avoid talking about this subject together in the future, everybody can’t agree on the same things all the time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still be friends.
Profile: NeverendingSparkles123
NeverendingSparkles123 on Dec 24, 2021
...read more
Maybe you can try something like-"Hey, I hear what you’re saying. I don’t think either of us is wrong, but I think we are on a different page for this right now. I want you to know that I’m not completely comfortable with that right now. Do you feel comfortable for us to talk about it a bit more? I want us to both be comfortable with this decision. You’re really important to me, so I don’t want to lose you as a friend and I know we can find a comfortable medium place to figure this out together. Let me know a good time to chat?"
Profile: sia1325
sia1325 on Dec 31, 2021
...read more
Many times, we are reluctant to share our opinions with other people because we don't want to hurt their feelings, but that may not be the most effective option. Communication is a vital component of any successful and strong relationship. As much as possible, I would try to validate their points without sounding defensive. Starting your reply with something like "I do respect your opinion on it however in my opinion, I believe ___" could help you to not make them feel hurt. Respecting others' opinions and making them feel valid helps to reduce tension. Sometimes our friends may not expect us to disagree with them and may take some time to think about it. Being polite in your replies lowers the chances of hurting someone else.
Profile: brightPanda1301
brightPanda1301 on Feb 12, 2022
...read more
A lot of times when I want to tell someone something that might conflict with their ideas, I will repeat back their idea first to let them understand that I know and understand what it is that they are saying. Then, I will calmly explain where I am coming from. If you charge into a conversation appearing like you are only seeing things from your point of view people tend to have their feelings hurt because they feel that their opinions and ideas have been rejected. If you approach the situation with compassion and understanding people are usually a little more open to hearing others opinions.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Feb 18, 2022
...read more
I say something like "I can understand and feel where you are coming from but I think I will do it this way instead." I say it is this way so they know what they stated was important but there are also other ways people choose to do things. I think a lot of times people are made to feel their ideas are not as important because someone doesn't use them but in reality they are important but just for them. Not everyone will agree with you and that is okay. It doesn't mean what you feel is any less important.
Profile: spicyvaish
spicyvaish on Mar 17, 2022
...read more
Communication is essential when it comes to any relationship. IT is common for friends to have disagreements and different opinions. Try to communicate your thoughts in a rational and polite way. Try not to get angry or lose your calm and try to explain your side of the situation. Tell them you have no intention of hurting their feelings and that you just want your point to get acknowledged and be out in the open. Be genuine and express your thoughts in a clear and efficient manner. State facts if it helps you with your case. Stay calm throughout and hope for the best.
Profile: chanel23
chanel23 on Mar 24, 2022
...read more
First, make sure that you listen to the entirety of what they have to say. If you try to cut them off or intervene with your own opinion, even if you think it is harmless, it takes away their chance to speak freely and they may feel hurt or less heard from you simply cutting them off. After they said their piece, let them know you hear their thoughts and you're understanding their perspective. If you're not quite getting what they're saying, be honest and ask even for clarity where you may need it. Lastly, after you made it clear you understand their perspective and where they're coming from, explain in a calm manner why you disagree with them. Try not to be erratic and keep a level tone of voice as much as possible. In addition, back yourself up with facts and logic that they will be able to understand, so they can truly understand where you are coming from.
Profile: Dalladi
Dalladi on Apr 2, 2022
...read more
Telling a friend that you disagree with them without hurting their feelings may be challenging at first. Like riding a bike, any new skill will feel odd and even wrong. Fortunately there are training wheels and helmets, and people there to help...and you are obviously smart enough to ask for help so good for you! A true friend will know these things about you and not hold a grudge or difference of opinion if it’s shared lovingly, respectfully and with an understanding that everyone is different and entitled to what they think, feel and believe. Be kind and open, speak calmly and clearly and before you know it’s you’ll be much more comfortable sharing your opinions with your true friends.
Have a helpful insight? Don’t keep it to yourself.
Sharing helps others and its therapeutic for you.
0/150 Minimum Characters
0/75 Minimum Words