[trashtester]

> I've watched direct reports operate as a "human command line"

I've recently started teaching my daughters how to play chess. When they hang the queen, I ask them "do you really want to do that move?". If they ask why not, I tell them. If they insist on doing it anyway, I capture the queen.

They've learned to listen when I ask "do you really want to do that?"

I treat my managers the same. :)

[droopyEyelids]

This could be interpreted like you've switched to giving them an implicit command

[PH95VuimJjqBqy]

an intake of breath is risky because it could be poisonous and kill you. Yet you wouldn't suggest someone stop breathing.

There's lots of ways this could be interpreted, that shouldn't stop anyone from attempting to execute a teachable moment.