In an episode of the Stick to Football podcast, Thierry Henry gave a fascinating interview.
I admire Thierry. To me, he’s one of the best players to have ever played in the Premier League.
But in that interview, I noticed something (nothing to do with football).
Almost every time he answered a question, he started with “To be honest…” or “I’m going to be honest with you…”
We all say it. I’ve caught myself doing it too.
But it raises a simple question: If we say “to be honest” now… were we not being honest before?
Of course, that’s not what people mean. It’s just a habit. But it’s a habit worth noticing.
When you speak, especially in high-stakes conversations or presentations, your words carry signals.
“To be honest” might seem harmless, but it implies that honesty is the exception, not the rule.
Honesty should be built in. You don’t need a disclaimer to tell the truth.
Just say what you mean.
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