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My experience has been that there are times to teach and…

“My experience has been that there are times to teach and times not to teach. When relationships are strained and the air charged with emotion, an attempt to teach is often perceived as a form of judgment and rejection.” quote by Stephen R. Covey
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““My experience has been that there are times to teach and times not to teach. When relationships are strained and the air charged with emotion, an attempt to teach is often perceived as a form of judgment and rejection.””

Stephen R. Covey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Teaching is effective only when the relational context is safe; otherwise it can be misread as criticism.

In simple terms: Timing and emotional climate matter in teaching.

Key Takeaway

Choose moments wisely.

Themes

communication empathy leadership conflict resolution psychology

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice observation

When to use this quote

  • coaching a colleague after a disagreement
  • parenting a teen during a heated argument
  • training a team after a failed project

Key Concepts

trust judgment rejection

Practical Applications

  • pause and rebuild rapport before offering guidance

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have I sensed resistance to my input?
  • How can I create a safer space for dialogue?
A Different Perspective

In some high‑stakes contexts, withholding feedback can perpetuate errors.

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