The Art of Giving Tailored Advice

Note to self.

Whenever I find myself dispensing the same advice to people encountering a similar problem – it’s a sure sign that I’m not giving the best advice.

Even if the outward circumstances are the same – and they are never the same – the temperament, mood and mind set of the people I’m advising differ widely.

So, before I fire off my usual sermon – I should pause and listen. Really listen. Empathise. Absorb. Reflect. Then speak.

If I do that, there’s a good chance that what I say will be different each time, nuanced and tailored to benefit the person I am speaking to.