The whole truth can sometimes be too much, says Simran Mangharam

It’s not always easy knowing what to say and what to hold back, but it is crucial. In this week’s With Love, a look at the subtle art of the heart-to-heart.

It is almost impossible to form a deep bond without being authentic. When it comes to romantic relationships, authenticity is a prerequisite. One cannot have a bond endure over time, and remain healthy, without this.

Now, some well-meaning partners confuse authenticity with unbridled honesty, and I don’t mind putting this bluntly: sometimes, for the sake of the relationship and the other person, one simply has to bend the truth a little.

This is usually done to avoid hurting the other