Before you give advice, that is to say advice which you have not been asked to give, it is well to put to yourself two questions - namely, what is your motive for giving it, and what is it likely to be worth? If these questions were always asked, and honestly answered, there would be less advice given.
Interpretation
Before offering unsolicited advice, consider your intentions and its potential value.
This quote by John William Mackail emphasizes the importance of reflecting on one's motives and the relevance of unsolicited advice. It suggests that many people offer advice without fully considering whether it is appropriate or beneficial, which could lead to unnecessary confusion or misguidance.
In practice
During team meetings, remind colleagues of the importance of considering motives before giving feedback.
I'll tell you that for me, one when someone used to say something that was true, one way I knew it was true was that I immediately felt defensive. I blocked it off, and I went to war with them in my mind and suffered all that goes with it. And they were only saying what was true.
And never resist a perfect moment.
There are no secrets that time does not reveal.
It is a great thing to know the season for speech and the season for silence.
When seeking guidance, don't ever listen to the tiny-hearted. Be kind to them, heap them with blessing, cajole them, but do not follow their advice.
Since death will take us anyway, why live our life in fear? Why not die in our old ways and be free to live?
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