The world is full of people eager to give advice and tell others what to do. Why they feel compelled to do this is not as much of a concern as our reaction.
We can claim power over our lives and decisions by politely listening and thanking them for their thoughts. Perhaps we might even say we'll consider it. Then, of course, we do whatever we feel is best.
Even the person with the worst advice has something valuable to share because whatever they say may point us in the opposite direction. Don't react even if the advice was unsolicited or seemed rude. Be curious and ask yourself - is that advice really meant for themselves?
I call this the "Busy Body Game," an observation that has amused me immensely through the years. I give myself a point every time I spot it. The ability to find humor in oppressive situations is highly adaptive.
In our hearts, we already know what is right for our journey. Sometimes the path is easier to see once we receive terrible advice. That is something to truly be grateful for.
Image courtesy of the Canva pro media library.
I once had a coworker tell me I should drink less coffee because it's so high calorie, a sideways comment about my weight, perhaps. She was standing in front of me holding one of those high fat/high sugar specialty coffees from Starbucks in her hand. You know, with the whipped cream drizzled with caramel on top?
I smiled and said, "I drink black coffee. Zero calories."
Uh.
The comedians are everywhere. I am still laughing about that one 😄
So true! I remember a great gift from my son's father....
He would say to me "Why do you get so upset and argue when you get advice you don't like? Just smile and nod, and then do whatever you want." Great teaching! Saves lots of arguing too... who needs that s**t