Question: How do be straightforward, yet not curt? And how to be direct, yet not hurt?
Answer: Simple – say it slowly, deliberately, but not harshly, while looking in the eye. The message usually gets across, as mindfulness is needed by the other party to to process your message just as deliberately.
And here’s part two, in case it is needed. If the person doesn’t get it, repeat the message… more slowly, more deliberately, but using the exact same words. This is called the broken record method. It reinforces the fact that what was to be said was already said. It works if the words are carefully chosen in the first place! Because you have to say the words mindfully, you won’t be impatient too. A win-win situation!