Avoid giving advice too quickly from "summary" of The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier
When faced with a problem or a challenge, our natural tendency is often to jump in with solutions. We want to be helpful, to provide guidance, to show that we know what we're talking about. But the truth is, giving advice too quickly can actually be counterproductive. It can shut down the conversation before it even begins. It can prevent the other person from fully exploring the issue at hand. It can rob them of the opportunity to come up with their own solutions. By holding back on the advice and instead asking more questions, we create space for deeper reflection and insight. We empower the other person to think more critically about their situation. We encourage them to tap into their own expertise and creativity. We show them that we value their perspective and trust in their abilities.
This doesn't mean that we should never offer advice. There may come a point in the conversation where our input is truly needed and valuable. But by waiting until the right moment, we ensure that our advice is well-received and well-utilized. We make sure that it truly adds value to the discussion, rather than simply shutting it down.
So the next time you feel the urge to jump in with advice, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself if there's an opportunity to ask a question instead. See if you can create space for the other person to explore their own thoughts and ideas. Trust that they have the capability to come up with solutions on their own. And when the time is right, offer your advice with humility and care.
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