Let me give you a piece of advice…

Has anyone ever said that to you? Have you accepted it? What’s your first reaction when you hear it?

I remember reading an Ann Landers column many years ago where she wrote, “Never give advice to someone who isn’t asking for it”, and I’ve often remembered that because I do think it has some merit. But now I think  this is more a commentary on the recipient than the advisor.

I think in our culture today, people are proud (in a negative way)  and proud of it. They don’t want someone else telling them what to do or think. We are a very independent lot, for better or for worse. On the other hand, how many self-help books and blogs and websites are there out there all throwing out counsel left, right, and centre?  I guess the difference is that if you decide to peruse the information out there, YOU are making the move. Someone isn’t telling you to.  It’s like the little toddler folding her arms defiantly spouting out, “I can do it myself!”.  It has to be her idea and her way.

I think taking advice from others has a lot to do with attitude. I have to ask myself often if I am willing to be teachable, and honestly, sometimes I’d have to say no. I really don’t enjoy having people telling me what to do. Especially if I think they don’t have enough experience in that area to be giving me recommendations.  Doesn’t sound too humble, does it?

And that’s the bottom line. Humility. Am I willing to humble myself and thank someone for their advice, mull it over, and maybe even take it?

I think Ann Landers may have had it partially right, but it really depends on who you’re talking to.

He who corrects a scoffer gets shame for himself, And he who rebukes a wicked man only harms himself. Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

Proverbs 9: 7-9