A phrase I heard recently and found useful: I agree with the idea, but I disagree with the tone.
Many ideas get dismissed because they are delivered in a cocky or hostile or dismissive tone—or because of who delivers them.
Separate substance from style.
I just got some (personally) mindblowing advice, re: a message that felt overdue:
You don't have to explain yourself.
Say, '"Thanks for your patience; it took longer than I expected to get back to you."
and then move on with it!
🤯