Expeditious Advice

Sunday, July 12, 2015
Sometimes advice comes rolling in at a time when it is neither welcome nor appreciated. This advice type may cause the recipient to scream and stomp and scare the advisor away, or it may be quietly accepted with a nod and a non-listening ear. The idea of just remaining polite and waiting for a quick exit is a nice way to maintain a friendship while escaping overwhelming input at an unreceptive moment as well. You do not necessarily want to run off the advice provider forever, just for the moment or until a time arises when you have the time, energy, and focus to absorb and utilize input to its best advantage.
At other times advice is a wonderful gift. This advice is rarely pronounced in a singular way as in an order or commanding demand, but rather in a fashion that permits the recipient to think, reflect, and manipulate the "good words" into an empowerment situation for all. These snippets of guidance are sparkling with brilliance as they sooth, smooth, and help one move forward. These bits transform from a one-direction diatribe into a two-way connection and intervention opportunity. Expectations and goals are clarified as attention is focused into positive avenues. This assistance builds strength and confidence and makes accomplishment far more possible. The negative intervention is likely to end up in discouragement for all and a strong sense of victimization for the recipient.
Victimization is demeaning and painful. When a person sets out to solve a problem or engage in an intervention, there is most often gusto and vigor. No one likes to launch into darkness and void where ideas will not be received well or even heard. Instead, heading into bright light and hopefulness, one proceeds with strength and vitality. With this positive feeling, it is far easier to listen to and accept advice from others. A little bit of optimistic, constructive energy goes a long distance for all concerned. The sense of falling prey couple with great hopelessness perpetuates the victim feeling and this must vanish if progress is to be made.
It amazes me that sometimes those in charge feel that ruling with an iron, unwelding fist is the most productive process available. Slammed doors, cruel orders, and thoughtlessness towards group members seem absolutely non-productive to me. I don't mind strict designs and clear directions, but I also like to know that there is wiggle room for improvement and adjustments along the route to see a job through to maximum excellence.
And so it is important to know when to seek advice and when to ruminate just a little longer. The same is true for the advice provider: is the recipient ready, willing, and in an affirmative state so that ideas and thoughts rendered arrive with positive spin and drive. With the air of sureness and assurance, great feats will be achieved. Being expeditious, the advice is delivered at the right moment in the right tone to the right ears and in the right situation.