What to Avoid in Life and Advice-Giving
Are you offend by normie culture, virtue signaling, or even a simple condiment like raw tomatoes and mayo? Or do you shy away from live social interactions? If so, you might find yourself isolated. Let's dive into the pitfalls of giving unsolicited advice and the importance of timing and relevancy in delivering help.
Unsolicited Advice
One of the cardinal sins in the realm of human interaction is giving unsolicited advice. It's like reaching into someone's backpack and deciding what's inside without permission. Why is this so crucial to avoid? There are several reasons, chief among them is the context in which advice is given.
People see their problems through their own unique lens. What might seem like a major issue to you could be a minor hurdle to them. They might not recognize the problem as urgent or pressing. Therefore, they won't understand your worries no matter how you explain the consequences. This is why it's vital to respect their perspective and only offer advice when asked.
Timing and Relevance in Advice-Giving
Time is a precious commodity, and it's best not to waste it on ideas that won't stick. For instance, imagine a friend confides in you about a recurring issue with their significant other. You give them advice based on your experience, but if they're not ready to act on that advice, it might as well have never been said. By following a rule of offering advice only when it's genuinely needed, you avoid fruitless conversations and unnecessary frustration.
Personal Experience: A Cautionary Tale
One personal experience stands out. A dear friend of mine once sought my advice about a persistent problem in her relationship. I listened intently and, empathetic to her pain, offered a straightforward solution. Months passed, and she called me again for the same issue. It was as if the conversation had been recorded and replayed. I could no longer counsel her on the same problem, so I was direct. I said, 'If you're not going to take my advice, don't bother asking again. You're wasting my time, and it's not helping you, so why bother?'
Conclusion
The bottom line is this: avoid giving unsolicited advice and repeat advice to the same person who won't implement it. The best advice you can give is to make the effort to seriously consider and apply changes. If they're not ready to listen or take action, then the advice isn't helpful, and neither is the discussion.
Take care.