"There is nothing for me but to love you"

So I've found lately that I've been more than eager to dole out advice to people...but rarely listen to what I'm saying. I feel like maybe I've been alienating friends and family because I can be...what's the word? A jerk. I consider myself an outspoken person and I'm not afraid to say much. However, I rarely concern myself with what it is I'm really saying. Who do I hurt with the things I say? Are the consequences of what I'm saying potentially harmful?
I have a thought on where it's all come from. About 6 months ago I went out of my way to be extra nice to everyone around me. I was upbeat and cheerful all the time. No matter what situation I ran into I saw the "silver lining." I believe I got to the point where I was being insincere to myself and those around me. I was pretending that I wasn't hurting or frustrated.
I need to somehow find a balance between embracing my pain and lashing out, and being sickeningly happy about everything.
So here's my goal: I'm going to try to be honest with my feelings when things happen; yet at the same time make sure I'm not being tactless and harsh to those around me.
I think at first it's going to be difficult because it's not natural. The natural way to deal with things for humans is to either act on the first impulse on how they feel about something, or push it down and pretend like everything is okay. I think this is a good goal for me because it'll seriously change the way I am to everyone near and dear. ;)
**Disclaimer**
If you notice that things aren't working out the way I plan them to (I plan for the world to come together in a beautiful harmony...or at least improve my snarky attitude) PLEASE let me know. remind me of this blog, and say something really douche-y like, "Valerie, I thought you said you weren't going to be a jerk anymore?" I could probably use a shot of humility to the face...or five