Say It Kindly
Know what to say, before the conversation you keep putting off.
Word-for-word scripts and one-page prep sheets for 25 difficult conversations at work, at home and with the people you care about.
Get the 25 scripts · US$21
Digital download · one-time payment · no subscription
Script 14 · Setting a limit with family“I love that you want to help. I’ve decided to handle this one my own way, and I’d like you to trust me with it.”
If they push back“I hear you. My answer is still the same, and I’m happy to talk about something else.”
💡 Prep sheet tip: say the limit once, calmly. You don’t need to defend it.
The conversation in your head
Most of us rehearse these talks over and over, and then say nothing. Maybe you’ve thought:
“I’ll bring it up next week, when things calm down.”
“I know I owe them an apology, I just don’t know how to start.”
“If I give honest feedback, it will sound harsh.”
“I want more responsibility at work, but asking feels awkward.”
What’s inside
25 scripts in four groups. Each one comes with an opening line, two or three ways the other person might respond, and what you can say next.
7 scriptsAt work
- Asking for more responsibility or a new project
- Saying no to extra work, politely
- Raising a concern with your manager
- Clearing up a misunderstanding with a coworker
6 scriptsFamily & home
- Setting a limit with a parent or relative
- Splitting chores more fairly
- Declining a visit or invitation
- Talking about a recurring argument
6 scriptsApologizing
- A sincere apology without over-explaining
- Apologizing for something said in anger
- Reaching out after a long silence
- Accepting an apology
6 scriptsGiving feedback
- Feedback to a teammate or someone you lead
- Telling a friend something hurt
- Asking someone to change a habit that bothers you
- Receiving feedback without getting defensive
How it works
1Pick the script
Find the conversation closest to yours and read it through once.
2Fill the prep sheet
Ten minutes on paper: what you want, what you’ll say first, what you won’t say.
3Make it your own words
Adjust the lines so they sound like you. Say them out loud once or twice.
4Have the talk, then jot notes
Use the after-talk page to keep track of what was agreed.
Who it’s for
💬 A good fit if you…
- Avoid conflict and want words ready ahead of time
- Tend to over-explain or apologize too much
- Want to be honest and still kind
- Like having a written plan before a big moment
✋ Not the right fit if you…
- Are dealing with abuse or a safety concern (please reach out to a professional or local support service)
- Need legal or HR advice for a dispute
- Want a negotiation course
- Are looking for couples or family therapy
Say It Kindly
US$21
One-time payment · digital download · no subscription
- 25 conversation scripts
- 25 one-page prep sheets
- Tone guide + after-talk notes
- PDF for print, phone and tablet
Download now
You’ll get the download link by email right after checkout.
Questions
Asked and answered.
Is this therapy or medical advice?No. Say It Kindly is an educational communication guide. It is not therapy, counseling, medical, legal or HR advice.
Do I have to say the scripts word for word?Not at all. They’re a starting point. The prep sheets help you put them in your own words.
What format is it?A PDF you can read on your phone, tablet or computer, or print at home.
Is there a subscription?No. You pay US$21 once and keep the files.
Will this make the other person agree with me?No one can promise that. The scripts help you say what you mean clearly and kindly. How the other person responds is up to them.
Can I use it for conversations not on the list?Yes. The prep sheet works for any conversation, and the tone guide applies everywhere.