Hannah Whitall Smith, founder of Woman's Christian Temperance Union, late 19th and early 20th century, said, "The true secret of giving advice is, after you have honestly given it, to be perfectly indifferent whether it is taken or not, and never persist in trying to set people right."
Sounds good on paper. But most of us are indeed offended if the person we've advised either does not take our advice or lets it go right over their heads without even considering it. I mean, after all, we took the time to share our words of wisdom and the bloody bloke insulted us by saying "No thanks." How could he/she/they?
So, are you a wise enough person to get the wisdom of Smith's quote, that is, her advice? Or are you still insistent that when you give advice, it's important the other person or persons take it, run with it, use it or else?
You could just shut up, you know. Advice is often the least appreciated form of communication, even when asked for. So, I will let this bit of wisdom sail off into the universe, land where it will, and not worry about who likes it or who doesn't.
I'll close with a bit of info from one Uzi Weingarten who says that the best way to give adivce is to first, listen. Then ask permission. Finally, if it's OK, offer it without insistence. Sound advice, Uzi.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments that disagree with my views are welcome. However, please refrain from vulgar, racist, sexist, homophobic and other types of language that are disrespectful to other readers. Many thanks.