Ponderings (September 2006) - “ADVICE”

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary …

Advice is “a recommendation regarding a decision or course of conduct”

Sharing my thoughts …

I tend to be a “fixer”.  I see people, in what I perceive to be pain, and I want to help them “fix it”. What I’ve learned over the years is that, first of all, it’s rather arrogant of me to think I can “fix” anything, especially with another person.  Second, did the other person even ask for my advice?  If not, than my advice is an unwelcome intrusion.  And, if the other did ask for my advice, I’ve learned it’s healthier for us both if I listen to their concerns and help them follow their own guidance, not mine.  Do I do this perfectly every time?  Well, what do you think?  Would you like my advice on how to answer that question?!! 

Questions to ponder …

1. How often do you seek advice?
2. What advice have you received and followed?
3. How often to others approach you for advice?
4. What has been the best advice you’ve received?
5. What circumstances prompt you to seek advice?
6. How often to you give advice that is not sought?
7. How often to you receive advice that is not sought?
8. How do you react when your advice is not followed?
9. Who are the people in your life that you listen to the most?  Why?
10. Who are the people in your life that seek and follow your advice?  Why?

Related quotes …

Unasked advice is a trespass on sacred privacy.  [Henry S. Haskins]

All the advice in the world will never help you until you help yourself.  [Fred Van Amburgh]

Advice is like snow; the softer it falls the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind. [Samuel Coleridge]

I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it.  [Harry Truman]

Whatever advice you give, be brief.  [Horace]