"You can lie but don't get caught" The problem is most lies are eventually caught out!
Having a strict no lies policy, except when your lie can bring about a greater good like peace between enemies, truly is advantageous. No stress and apprehension that someone is gonna find out one has not been truthful.

And if there is something you don't wish to say, rather than lie and spin stories, just tell the other person you don't wish to talk about it..pretty simple!

Of course this is not to be confused with bluntly telling a person what you think of them and hurting the feelings of others in the name of "honesty" and "forthrightness" some holier than thou individuals sport in a bid to making themselves feel superior and others low. Here one needs to know the art of diplomacy and kindness and how to answer someone in a way to make them feel good but help them overcome any shortcomings too. And yes this too IS possible.

It will take some getting used to for some, but the minds peace that ensues will always be worth the effort.