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Jefferson Fisher

3 things: good boundaries, responding to a liar, and sparkling lemonade

Published about 11 hours ago • 2 min read
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Hey Reader,

I'm headed to Nebraska this week. Apparently it's known as the Tree Planters' State, which is right up my alley. I love trees. They remind me that the best things in life take time and outlive you. Same goes for the work you're putting into better conversations.

Alright, let’s get into it. Here are this week’s 3 things: an inbox question, a communication tip, and something I’m currently loving.

#1. From My Inbox: “What's the difference between setting a boundary and being manipulative?”

A boundary is about controlling your actions. Manipulation is about controlling theirs. In practice, setting a boundary sounds like, "I don't take calls after 9 pm. If you call, I'll return it tomorrow." You say it. You follow through. That's a boundary.

But, manipulation sounds like, "If you really cared, you wouldn't call after 9.” It makes them responsible for your feelings.

Think fence, not leash. A fence marks where you end and others begin. A leash yanks. A boundary is a fence. Manipulation is a leash.

#2. How To Respond To A Liar

When they finish talking, go quiet. Liars rush to fill space and “fix” their story. Let the silence do the work. If you need to say more, keep it factual and steady with, “Something feels off.” An honest person will say, "Okay, what feels off?" But a liar will overreact or try to bait you. Don't take the bait. End it there.

#3. Something I'm Currently Loving — LMNT Sparkling

I've used LMNT's salt packets for a long time, but recently I branched out and tried their seltzer versions. I'm not typically a fan of carbonated drinks. But the Lemonade Sparkling flavor is great, especially as it's getting hotter here in the south. You don't have to mix them—just grab one out of the refrigerator and go. I love that LMNT doesn't put dodgy ingredients in their drinks, which is why I let my kids drink it too. The people at LMNT are good people. They make a clean product that works great. And I’m a fan. They're giving my newsletter subscribers a free sample pack with any order. You can get yours here.

Thanks for being here with me,

J

*Sponsorship Transparency: I only recommend products we use and trust. If I wouldn’t put it in my own home, I won’t put it in yours. Simple as that.

Read all of my past emails here.

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156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

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Jefferson Fisher

Trial Attorney & Communication Expert

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

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