This applies to almost every situation where you have to break bad news, like being a manager or a parent. When you want to provide negative performance feedba

This applies to almost every situation where you have to break bad news, like being a manager or a parent. When you want to provide negative performance feedback at work, be direct and professional, Don't bury it in a "compliment sandwich" ('You're doing a great job, except when you're not, but don't worry'). It's a hard skill to master (unless you're a non-feeling sociopath) because it means accepting that you will (possibly) be disliked, maybe even hated. Same for children. They are going to hate you (at least temporarily) for criticism or punishment, but if you try to be fair, fact-based and direct hopefully they will appreciate it down the road when they have more context.