Sometimes it is hard to keep our thoughts and opinions to ourselves. It is so hard to see someone you love battling with something that you think or feel you could help them with...if only they would listen to what you have to say...
One thing I have learnt from being on the other end of such advice - particularly with day-to-day issues - is that often this advice is not wanted nor asked for and often a listening ear and empathy is all that is needed. Sometimes doing something for ourselves, regardless of what it costs, or where it takes us, or who it involves, is a journey that we need at that time in our lives. Remember that life will take us to where we need to go, and there is a something to be learnt from every situation.
Often the person will come to the conclusion they need to in their own time - without your unwanted advice (different if they have asked you). Isn't is funny how we are so quick to jump in with advice, we forget to actually listen to what the other person is saying?? Where does that come from? The need to show we are intelligent or know more than the other person, or do we just want to help so badly that we cannot help but to give advice.
What is advice anyway? A completely subjective view on a topic? According to the dictionary Advice is guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent action. I find that definition funny. Advice can be a fantastic tool, when asking a professional for instance i.e. advice about your dog from a dog trainer... ;) Except majority of advice is offered on a whim, without knowing the full story, and without asking if it is wanted. i.e. "I think you should get a better job" or "You are doing too much and need to stop"...
We all do it. Can you stop yourself next time you go to offer advice when it wasn't asked for? How is your active listening?
...Until Tomorrow xox
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