How many times in a week is some advice directed at you?
There is something inexplicable about humans; DNA that compels them to constantly offer opinions structured as questions. When it comes to advice no interrogative word is more common than why.
Is there any value to advice that typically costs nothing and promises so much benefit? It depends on the source, the content, and what the potential payoff is.
“People who tend to give advice are normally the ones who ignored it to begin with.”
It is fair to conclude then, that most advice lacks in common sense and practical application.
The following steps may be useful when advice flies at you like an arrow with a definitive target:
1) Who is the person dispensing the apparent wisdom and what relation do you have with them? If I know little about you and what you value, there is little chance that I am going to absorb any thoughts you throw my way.
2) What is the person communicating and what are they really asking you to do? Most advice I have heard has a variety of subtle messages; but the real question becomes what action is another human asking us to take? It is vital we understand this or we risk embarking on an irreversible and greasy slope that may deliver grave risk to us.
3) What is the potential payoff of the advice and what will it mean for me? It is so important to place a value on what is being likely said to you, and the strength of a moral compass can dictate where it truly fits into our lives.
Be wary of that old phrase that seems to be ageless: “If I were you…..I would consider.” Guess what? You aren’t me, I am perfectly imperfect, and am certain on some level that I can seek out trusted advice on my own without too much assistance.
The 15th century British philosopher, Robert Burton, said “Who cannot give good counsel? Tis cheap, it costs them nothing.”
My friends please remember this: respect, consideration, and courtesy matter a lot. Treat others fairly, decently, and equally.
Build your moral compasses carefully and always monitor them daily.
You know the battle cry: do your best each day. No one can ask more or less from any of us.
All the best/blessings, Mark
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